【Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum】 Tottori Prefecture
About the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum
The Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum is a memorial hall located in Kitahaku Town, Tōhaku District, Tottori Prefecture, the birthplace of manga artist Gosho Aoyama, known for works such as “Detective Conan,” “YAIBA,” and “Magic Kaito.” It opened in March 2007 and has become a sacred pilgrimage site for Conan fans, with visitors from across the nation coming to experience Aoyama’s creative works and artistic journey.
The museum is filled with exhibitions that fans can enjoy, including a recreation of Aoyama’s work studio, displays of original artwork, and trick art experiences. Additionally, numerous limited edition merchandise available only here is sold, making this a popular destination for souvenirs during sacred site pilgrimages.
Why Kitahaku Town, Tottori Prefecture Became a Sacred Site for Detective Conan
The Birthplace of Gosho Aoyama
Kitahaku Town (formerly Daiei Town) in Tottori Prefecture is where Gosho Aoyama was born and raised in 1963. The artist graduated from local elementary and middle schools in this town and nurtured his dream of becoming a manga artist here. In honor of Aoyama’s accomplishments and his deep affection for his hometown, the entire town has undertaken community development projects centered around the Detective Conan universe.
The Birth of Conan Street
The approximately 1.4 km road leading to the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum is named “Conan Street,” and along its sides stand more than twenty bronze statues of Detective Conan characters. This street, where visitors are greeted by popular characters such as Shinichi Kudo (Conan), Ran Mouri, Ai Haibara, and Kaito Kid, has become the highlight of sacred site pilgrimages.
Highlights of the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum
Recreation of Gosho Aoyama’s Work Studio
One of the most popular areas in the museum is a faithful recreation of Aoyama’s actual work studio. Drawing materials, reference documents, and the desk the artist actually used are on display, allowing visitors to glimpse the creative workspace of a professional manga artist.
The arrangement of pens, ink, screentone, and other art materials provides a valuable opportunity to understand how manga is created.
Display of Original Artwork
Valuable original artwork drawn by Aoyama is displayed on a rotating basis. Visitors can view the actual brushwork, pen techniques, and correction marks up close—details that cannot be conveyed through printed materials—making it a moving experience for fans.
Since the displayed works change regularly, there are always new discoveries to be made on repeat visits.
Trick Art Experience Corner
A trick art corner that allows visitors to experience the Detective Conan universe is also popular. Visitors can take photos with Conan and his friends, creating Instagram-worthy memories.
The exhibit is packed with interactive installations where visitors can experience famous scenes from the series, such as Conan riding a skateboard and crime scene recreations.
Junior Detective Club Puzzle Game
The museum also offers a puzzle-solving game that allows visitors to experience the thrill of being a detective. This interactive attraction, where visitors collect clues while viewing exhibits to solve a case, is popular among both children and adults.
Museum Shop
The museum shop, filled with original merchandise exclusive to the Hometown Museum, is an ideal place to purchase commemorative items for your sacred site pilgrimage.
The shop offers an extensive selection of items available nowhere else, including stationery, T-shirts, key chains, and confections featuring exclusive illustrations. Artwork specially drawn by Aoyama, in particular, often sells out immediately.
How to Access the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum
Access by Train
Access from JR Yura Station
- Get off at “Yura Station” on the JR Sanin Main Line, approximately 20 minutes on foot
- Yura Station is affectionately known as “Conan Station”
- The station building and surrounding area are decorated with Conan imagery, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere of the sacred site from the moment they arrive
Travel Time from Major Cities
- From Tottori Station: approximately 40 minutes on the JR Sanin Main Line
- From Yonago Station: approximately 1 hour 20 minutes on the JR Sanin Main Line
- From Kurayoshi Station: approximately 30 minutes by bus
Access by Car
Using the Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Hojo IC” on the Sanin Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Daiei-Tōhaku IC” on the Sanin Expressway
Parking Information
- Free parking is available at the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum (approximately 50 regular vehicles)
- Parking spaces for large buses are also available, making group visits possible
Access from the Airport
From Tottori Sand Dune Conan Airport
- Approximately 30 minutes by taxi
- Approximately 30 minutes by airport shuttle bus to Kurayoshi Station, then by bus or taxi
Tottori Sand Dune Conan Airport is also decorated with Detective Conan theming, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the sacred site pilgrimage from the moment they arrive.
Opening Hours, Admission Fees, and Closed Days
Opening Hours
- April to October: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM
- November to March: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM
- Final admission is 30 minutes before closing
Admission Fees (as of 2024)
- Adults: 700 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 500 yen
- Elementary School Students: 300 yen
- Preschool Children: Free
- Group Discount (20 or more people): 100 yen discount on each admission
Closed Days
- Open year-round (though temporary closures may occur due to exhibit changes, etc.)
- It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting
Nearby Detective Conan Sacred Sites
Conan Street (Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum Road)
The approximately 1.4 km road from JR Yura Station to the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum is developed as “Conan Street.” Over twenty bronze statues of Detective Conan characters are placed along this street and have become a popular photography spot.
Main Bronze Statues
- Shinichi Kudo (Conan)
- Ran Mouri
- Ai Haibara
- Kaito Kid
- Heiji Hattori
- Kazuha Toyama
- Professor Hiroshi Agasa
- The Junior Detective Club (Ayumi, Genta, Mitsuhiko)
Each bronze statue recreates famous scenes from the series, and fans will immediately recognize which scene is being depicted.
Conan Station (JR Yura Station)
JR Yura Station is affectionately known as “Conan Station.” A large illustration of Conan is painted on the station building, and the station interior features displays of Conan merchandise and photo spots.
The station’s departure melody uses the theme song from Detective Conan, setting the mood for the beginning of a sacred site pilgrimage.
Conan’s House Yonehana Shopping Street
“Conan’s House Yonehana Shopping Street,” located within walking distance of the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum, is a commercial facility recreating “Yonehana Town” from the series. It features buildings modeled after locations from the works, such as the Poirot Café and the Mouri Detective Agency, allowing visitors to feel as though they have stepped into the world of Conan.
The facility houses cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops where visitors can enjoy Conan-themed cuisine and sweets.
Kitahaku Town Library
Kitahaku Town Library is also decorated with Detective Conan theming. The library has a special collection of Gosho Aoyama’s works, where visitors can read the entire Conan series.
The library’s exterior is also decorated with Conan illustrations and serves as a popular photography spot.
Michi no Eki Daiei (Daiei Service Station)
“Michi no Eki Daiei” (Daiei Service Station), located near the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum, sells Detective Conan merchandise alongside local specialty products. It is an ideal place to purchase souvenirs, including sweets made with the twenty-century pear, a specialty of Tottori Prefecture, and products featuring Conan packaging.
Recommended Model Course for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Half-Day Course (approximately 4 hours)
9:30 AM Arrival at JR Yura Station (Conan Station)
- Commemorative photo with the station building’s Conan illustration
- Viewing of Conan merchandise display inside the station
10:00 AM Stroll along Conan Street
- Take commemorative photos with bronze statues while walking leisurely
- Make sure not to miss any of the major character statues
11:00 AM Arrival at Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum and viewing
- Appreciate the exhibits carefully (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours)
- Take on the puzzle-solving game
- Purchase souvenirs at the museum shop
1:00 PM Lunch at Conan’s House Yonehana Shopping Street
- Enjoy Conan-themed dishes
2:00 PM Shop for souvenirs at Michi no Eki Daiei
Full-Day Course (approximately 7 hours)
In addition to the half-day course, visit the following spots:
3:00 PM Kitahaku Town Library
- Read works in the Conan collection
- Take photos of the library’s exterior
4:00 PM Stroll through surrounding natural attractions
- Enjoy Kitahaku Town’s beautiful countryside scenery
- Visit the coastline of the Sea of Japan (approximately 10 minutes by car)
5:00 PM Sunset viewing
- Appreciate the beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan
Tips for Enjoying a Sacred Site Pilgrimage Even More
Preparation
Review the Works
Reviewing Detective Conan anime or manga before your visit will help you understand the origins of the exhibits and bronze statues, making your experience more enjoyable. It is especially recommended to review Aoyama’s early works and famous Conan episodes beforehand.
Check the Official Website
Special exhibits and event information are regularly updated on the official website. Since information about limited merchandise sales is also posted there, be sure to check before your visit.
Photography Tips
Photography with Bronze Statues
Taking photos while striking the same pose as the bronze statue characters will create images that feel as though you have stepped into the world of the series. Photography platforms may be set up in front of each bronze statue.
Notes on Photography Inside the Museum
Some areas inside the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum are off-limits for photography. Original artwork display areas typically cannot be photographed, so follow the signage inside the museum. Feel free to take as many photos as you like in the trick art areas where photography is permitted.
How to Obtain Limited Merchandise
Popular limited edition merchandise may sell out early in the day. Especially on weekends and holidays, congestion is expected, so visiting shortly after opening is recommended. While some items can be purchased through online shops, many products are available only in-store, so purchasing at the museum is the safest option.
Combining with Other Tourist Attractions in Tottori Prefecture
Tottori Sand Dunes
The Tottori Sand Dunes, approximately 40 minutes by car from the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum, are famous as Japan’s largest sand dunes. Visitors can enjoy majestic natural scenery as well as activities such as camel riding and paragliding.
Mizuki Shigeru Road (Sakaiminato City)
Another manga sacred site in Tottori Prefecture is Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato City. This is the hometown of Shigeru Mizuki, the creator of “GeGeGe no Kitaro,” and features a shopping street centered around the theme of yokai (supernatural creatures). Located approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum, a “Manga Kingdom Tottori” tour visiting both sacred sites is also popular.
Misasa Onsen and Kaike Onsen
Tottori Prefecture is home to many historic hot springs. Staying at one of these hot spring resorts, such as Misasa Onsen or Kaike Onsen, is a great way to recover from your sacred site pilgrimage. Some hot spring inns offer plans in collaboration with Detective Conan.
Kurayoshi White Plaster Warehouse District
The Kurayoshi White Plaster Warehouse District, located approximately 20 minutes by car from the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum, retains buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods. Visitors can stroll through this historic streetscape and enjoy a retro atmosphere.
Event Information by Season
Spring Events
Special Exhibit During Cherry Blossom Season
Special exhibits themed around cherry blossoms are occasionally held in spring. Visiting in conjunction with cherry blossom spots throughout Kitahaku Town will make your trip even more fulfilling.
Summer Events
Conan Puzzle-Solving Event
Special puzzle-solving events for children are held during summer vacation. Large-scale puzzle games using both indoor and outdoor venues are popular with families.
Fall Events
Birthday Event for Gosho Aoyama
Around Gosho Aoyama’s birthday (June 21), commemorative events are held. Limited merchandise sales and special exhibits are must-sees for fans.
Winter Events
Christmas and New Year Events
During the winter season, decorations and exhibits themed around Christmas and the New Year are displayed. Conan Street under snow has its own charm, offering a unique sacred site pilgrimage experience available only in winter.
Lodging Information
Lodging Facilities in Kitahaku Town
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Kitahaku Town. Many offer dishes made with local ingredients, with an appealing homey atmosphere.
Lodging Facilities in Kurayoshi City
Located approximately 20 minutes by car, Kurayoshi City offers a wide range of accommodations, from business hotels to hot spring inns. Using Kurayoshi as a base to visit both the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum and surrounding attractions is also convenient.
Lodging Facilities in Tottori City
Tottori City has an abundance of large hotels and business hotels. Staying in Tottori City is also recommended if you plan to visit both the Tottori Sand Dunes and the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum.
Dining and Gourmet Information
Conan Cafés and Conan Cuisine
Café Inside Conan’s House Yonehana Shopping Street
The menu is filled with Conan-themed dishes. Enjoy visually exciting cuisine such as curry rice shaped like Conan’s face and sweets inspired by characters.
Local Specialties of Tottori Prefecture
Twenty-Century Pear
Tottori Prefecture is famous as a pear-producing region. The twenty-century pear is known for its refreshing sweetness, and sweets and juices made with the fruit are also recommended.
Pine Needle Crab
During the winter season (November to March), pine needle crabs caught in the Sea of Japan come into season. Many restaurants offer fresh crab dishes.
Seafood Rice Bowl
With Tottori Prefecture’s coastline on the Sea of Japan, fresh marine products are abundant. Seafood rice bowls made with local fish and shellfish are delicious.
Recommended Souvenirs
Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum Exclusive Merchandise
- Limited Illustration Merchandise: Stationery, clear files, postcards, and other items featuring special illustrations by Aoyama
- Plush Toys: Limited-edition design plush toys of Conan and his companions
- Apparel: T-shirts, tote bags, towels, and other practical items
Local Specialties of Tottori Prefecture
- Sweets Made with Twenty-Century Pear: Pear jelly, pear tart, pear jam, and more
- Inaba White Rabbit Merchandise: Confections and crafts inspired by the Tottori Prefecture mythology “The White Rabbit of Inaba”
- Ago Katsu: Fried fish cake made with flying fish (ago)
- Rakkyō: Pickled plum-shaped vegetables cultivated in the Tottori Sand Dunes, a local specialty
Things to Note When Visiting
Peak Periods
Golden Week, summer vacation, and year-end holidays are expected to be congested. Parking lots may become full, especially on weekends, so consider using public transportation or arriving early.
Weather Preparations
Summer Season
Tottori Prefecture can get hot in summer. When walking along Conan Street, remember to bring a hat, parasol, and water for hydration.
Winter Season
Snow may fall during winter. If driving, prepare studless tires or chains. Also remember to dress warmly.
Barrier-Free Information
The Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum is wheelchair accessible. The museum has elevators and multipurpose restrooms. However, some sections of Conan Street have narrow sidewalks, so caution is advised.
History and Future of the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum
Background of the Opening
The Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum opened in March 2007 to honor the accomplishments of local native Gosho Aoyama and to promote community development through his works. Since opening, the museum has welcomed over 100,000 visitors annually and has become one of Tottori Prefecture’s representative tourist attractions.
Renovation and Expansion
Since its opening, the museum’s exhibits have been regularly renovated and new content has been added. A major renovation was undertaken in 2017 to commemorate the museum’s 10th anniversary, greatly enriching interactive exhibits.
Future Outlook
As Detective Conan continues to grow in popularity both domestically and internationally, the number of overseas tourists is increasing. In the future, the expansion of exhibits and events that will be enjoyable for even more fans is anticipated.
Summary: How to Make the Most of Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage
The Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum and surrounding sacred sites are places every Detective Conan fan should visit at least once in their lifetime. Experiencing the world of the series and touching Aoyama’s creative journey will deepen your understanding of and affection for the works.
When planning your visit, be sure to check the official website for the latest information and plan with plenty of time. From strolling along Conan Street to viewing the exhibits in the museum and enjoying local cuisine, be sure to fully enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage unique to Tottori Prefecture.
Why not spend a special time immersed in the world of Detective Conan in Kitahaku Town, Tottori Prefecture? It will surely become an unforgettable memory.
