Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary

Stretching across the borders of Tottori and Shimane prefectures, Nakaumi is one of Japan’s premier wild bird habitats, home to about 40% of all bird species recorded in the country. Located on the northeastern shore of this brackish lake, Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary is a 28-hectare wetland reserve designed to provide a safe haven for waterbirds and an ideal spot for birdwatching.

The sanctuary hosts a wide variety of birds, including swans that migrate in late autumn to spend the winter in Japan, as well as ducks, herons, and even rare species such as the Greater White-fronted Goose and Bean Goose—both designated as Natural Monuments of Japan. To protect these birds, most of the park is restricted from public access. Visitors can observe them from designated areas like the nature center and wooden boardwalks.
The observation hall, surrounded on three sides by glass, offers sweeping views of the park and is climate-controlled for year-round comfort. Telescopes are set up along the windows, providing excellent views of Mount Daisen and the islands scattered across Nakaumi.

The Nature Center also features exhibition rooms, an audiovisual room, and meeting spaces, and regularly hosts seasonal nature observation events and craft workshops. A quiz rally that guides visitors through the park is also a popular activity for all ages.