Do I need to bring my own binoculars and equipment?

The Nature Center provides telescopes at observation points and offers binoculars for rent. Visitors without equipment can use these facilities, though serious birdwatchers may prefer their own binoculars or spotting scopes for optimal viewing.

Is the sanctuary suitable for families with children or beginners?

The sanctuary accommodates all experience levels with accessible walking trails and educational displays at the Nature Center. Staff provide guidance on bird identification and current sightings, making it appropriate for beginners and families.

How long should I plan to spend at the sanctuary?

Plan for two to four hours to cover the main trails, observation hides, and Nature Center. Dedicated birdwatchers may stay longer, particularly during early morning or late afternoon when bird activity peaks.

Are there facilities like restrooms, parking, and food available?

The sanctuary has free parking and restrooms. There are no restaurants or food vendors on-site. Vending machines are available at the Nature Center for beverages. Visitors should bring food or eat in Yonago City before or after their visit.

Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary

4.2 (309)ParkTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary stands as one of Japan's premier birdwatching destinations, located in Yonago City in Tottori Prefecture along the coast of the Sea of Japan. Established in 1995, this protected wetland area encompasses approximately 58 hectares of diverse habitats including mudflats, reed beds, and shallow water areas that attract migratory and resident bird species throughout the year.

The sanctuary holds significant ecological importance as a critical stopover point along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, one of the world's major bird migration routes. Over 250 species of birds have been recorded at the site, including rare and endangered species such as the hooded crane, white-naped crane, and various species of waterfowl. Winter months from November through March offer particularly rewarding viewing opportunities when thousands of migratory birds arrive from Siberia and other northern regions, with species like tundra swans, northern pintails, and various diving ducks gathering in large numbers.

Visitors can explore the sanctuary through well-maintained observation facilities including multiple bird hides and viewing platforms strategically positioned to minimize disturbance to the wildlife. The Nature Center serves as the main visitor facility, providing telescopes, educational displays about the local ecosystem, and staff who can offer guidance on current bird sightings. Walking trails wind through different habitat zones, allowing close observation of both aquatic birds and smaller species inhabiting the reed beds and surrounding vegetation.

The sanctuary is accessible from Yonago Station on the JR San-in Main Line, with the site located approximately 7 kilometers from the station. Local buses run regularly to the sanctuary area, with the journey taking around 20 minutes. Visitors can also reach the location by taxi or rental car, with parking facilities available on-site. Admission to the sanctuary grounds and Nature Center is free, making it an accessible destination for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

What other travelers are saying about Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary

There is an exhibition about birds in the sanctuary, which also comes with telescopes to observe the birds in the area. The mister in the observation room is super kind, easy-going, and patient. He is also very patient in teaching people how to use the transcripts telescopes. The lady at the reception is one of the most welcoming people I've ever met in the trip too!

Fenix Lai

Mar 26, 2025

Waterbirds congregate here during Autumn from Russia to swim & relax.

From Yonago water birds park, I can see water birds in Nakaumi lake. I can observe them by using binocular. Various species of water birds were found here. In this place, I also can practice stencil art design of wild water birds. Many choices of acrylic paint color are available to color your painting. It was very fun. Kids must be very happy with this activity. Please don’t miss this place when you visit Sanin area.

Many telescopes are set up overlooking the waterbird reserve, with information cards attached so that you can learn the names of the birds you find. Lots of other information inside; a microscope to look at insects, etc, artworks from local children, bird costumes, etc .

If you are a birder, this place is a must see. And even if you aren't a birder it is a great place to spend some time. You can comfortably watch birds with the telescopes indoors AND Mt Daisen is in the background! The guides are extremely helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. They gave me a checklist to mark the birds I saw. There were interesting displays and even bird costumes for kids and grownups too. I arrived too late to see it all, but I will certainly go again. Next time I will give myself plenty of time to really enjoy the experience. A truly pleasant experience.