Located in Hokuei Town, Tottori Prefecture, the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory offers visitors a rare chance to explore the origins and creative process of the beloved Detective Conan series. Through its detailed exhibits and hands-on trick experiences, you can feel the moment where imagination turns into story.
About the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory
The Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory celebrates the achievements of the world-renowned manga artist Gosho Aoyama. The building itself, designed in the shape of Conan’s profile, gives visitors an immediate sense of the manga’s atmosphere. Inside, visitors can explore original artwork, production notes, and chronological exhibits that trace Aoyama’s growth as an artist.
Many visitors are impressed by the realistic and immersive displays, which recreate famous scenes from Detective Conan and other works. Each area of the museum is crafted with precision and affection, offering a glimpse into Aoyama’s dedication to his craft. Supported by the local community, the museum stands as a symbol of Hokuei Town, where art and local pride coexist.
Gosho Aoyama’s Life and Creative Journey
In the first exhibition room, visitors can follow Aoyama’s path from childhood to professional debut. Sketches, early drawings, and handmade comics from his youth are displayed, illustrating how his talent blossomed. These exhibits reveal the young artist’s fascination with storytelling and his relentless pursuit of creativity.
The displays also trace Aoyama’s evolution from early works such as YAIBA and Magic Kaito to his masterpiece Detective Conan. The Conan section reveals behind-the-scenes insights into character creation and plot design, along with animation scripts, production photos, and comments from the voice actors. Fans can feel the deep emotional and intellectual depth that make Aoyama’s stories enduring and beloved around the world.
Experience the World of Tricks and Mysteries
A major highlight of the museum is the interactive Trick Experience Zone, where visitors can participate in mystery-solving challenges. Using mirrors, lights, and optical illusions, guests experience the fun of being a detective themselves. The exhibits are designed for all ages, making it a family-friendly experience.
Beyond the museum, the famous “Conan Street” stretches out, featuring character statues, story monuments, and photo spots such as Professor Agasa’s Car and a life-size Conan Statue. The entire area feels like stepping into the pages of the manga itself.
Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1414 Yurashuku, Hokuei Town, Tottori Prefecture |
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM) |
| Closed | Open year-round except during New Year holidays |
| Admission | Adults ¥700, Students ¥500, Children ¥300 |
| Parking | Free parking available (standard and large buses) |
The facility is fully barrier-free, accommodating wheelchairs and strollers. Multilingual pamphlets are available, reflecting the museum’s warm welcome to international visitors.
Access Information
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| By Train | From JR San’in Line’s Yura Station (nicknamed Edogawa Conan Station), it’s about a 20-minute walk. The station features Conan illustrations and themed signs. |
| By Car | About 90 minutes from Yubara IC on the Yonago Expressway via Route 313, or 20 minutes from Kurayoshi City. |
| By Bus or Bicycle | Free rental bicycles are available from Yura Station, allowing visitors to enjoy the Conan-themed townscape along the way. |
Along the route, you’ll spot Conan statues, themed manhole covers, and banners, turning the journey itself into part of the adventure.
Souvenirs and Exclusive Goods
The museum shop offers a wide range of exclusive merchandise found only at the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory. Popular items include limited-edition pins, replica illustrations, and trick notebooks. Collaboration sweets and local products from Tottori Prefecture are also available, making it a perfect spot to find unique souvenirs.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Conan Goods | Limited-edition pins, acrylic stands, clear files |
| Collector’s Items | Replica signed artwork by Gosho Aoyama, exclusive T-shirts |
| Local Collaborations | Conan-themed Tottori cookies, Hokuei specialty chocolates |
There’s also a capsule toy corner where visitors can collect exclusive medals and mini figures, adding a fun memory to their trip.
Nearby Attractions
Around the museum, several notable tourist destinations invite exploration. The Kurayoshi White-Walled Warehouses offer a nostalgic glimpse into traditional Japan, with preserved architecture from the Meiji to early Showa eras. Quaint cafés and local craft shops line the streets, providing a peaceful contrast to the vibrant world of Conan.
A bit farther away lies the Tottori Sand Dunes, one of Japan’s most famous natural landmarks. The sweeping dunes provide breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan, and visitors can enjoy sandboarding, camel rides, and paragliding. Together, these attractions highlight both Tottori’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
| Spot | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kurayoshi White-Walled District | Historic streets with cafés and craft shops in preserved buildings. |
| Tottori Sand Dunes | Japan’s largest dunes, popular for sunset and stargazing views. |
| Michi-no-Eki Daiei | Local specialty market and rest area offering regional products and travel info. |
Conclusion
The Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory is a one-of-a-kind destination where visitors can experience the world and mind of the creator behind Detective Conan. Through its detailed exhibits and interactive sections, the museum offers insight into how stories and characters are born. The entire town of Hokuei is infused with Conan’s charm, making a simple stroll through the streets an adventure of its own.
This location is not just for fans but also for travelers seeking education, creativity, and connection. Blending entertainment with local culture, it stands as one of Japan’s most memorable “anime pilgrimage” destinations. Visitors leave not only with souvenirs, but with a sense of inspiration and wonder—just like Conan uncovering his next mystery.
