Chizu-juku and Cedar Village: Visiting the Edo Period Post Town and Remnants of the Kishu Highway

Chizu Town in Yazu District, Tottori Prefecture is a historic town that flourished as a post town on the Inaba Highway (main highway connecting Tottori to Osaka) during the Edo period. This road on which the daimyo sankin-kotai processions passed still preserves old townscape strongly retaining Edo-period atmosphere today.

Historical Buildings of Chizu-juku

In central Chizu-juku, many merchant houses and residences from the Edo through Meiji periods remain. White-plastered storehouses, lattice-windowed merchant houses, and stone-paved alleys convey the former bustle. The "Ishitani Family Residence" designated as a National Important Cultural Property is a grand mansion built in the Meiji through Taisho eras, boasting over 40 rooms and a beautiful Japanese garden.

Chizu Cedar Forests and Woodworking Culture

Chizu Town is nationally known as the production area of "Chizu cedar." Approximately 93% of the town is forested, with well-maintained cedar forests spreading throughout. Furniture, building materials, and crafts made from Chizu cedar are highly evaluated for quality as the "Chizu wood brand."

Autumn Foliage at Ashizu Gorge

"Ashizu Gorge" in Chizu Town is known as a scenic spot with beautiful autumn foliage. The spectacular scenery created by autumn colors and clear streams captivates visitors.

Access

Walk to the town center from JR Inbi Line Chizu Station. About 45 minutes by car from Tottori City.