The Detective Conan Town in Hokuei, Tottori, is a theme park that is recommended for fans of this famous manga and anime, Detective Conan (known as Case Closed in some countries). This cute town, where Gosho Aoyama, the author of the series, was born and raised, offers fans a number of sights, statues, and activities. For those who are planning to go to Osaka or Kansai Airport, there are several transportation means that one can use when in the stated region, and they include trains, buses, and cars for self-rental. In this guide, we will discuss how one can get to Detective Conan Town in terms of cost, distance, and time. This guide is aimed at giving an easy read for those who are interested in visiting the facility for the first time or those who are fanatical about the facility.
What Is Detective Conan Town?
The Detective Conan Town is another themed area found in Hokuei and dedicated to the globally famous manga and anime series called Detective Conan. Scenic attractions in the town include life-sized character statues, the Conan Bridge, and the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory. It is possible to walk along streets with decorations in the style of Conan, visit themed cafes, and buy various souvenirs. The town has therefore turned out to be a hub of attraction for anime and manga enthusiasts from all over the world. Thus, with such dedication to Detective Conan, Hokuei is a unique attraction that incorporates elements of the local culture and the famous detective.
How to Travel from Osaka to Detective Conan Town
By Train: The Fastest & Most Convenient Option
The best means of transport to use when getting to Detective Conan Town from Osaka is by train. First of all, take the JR Limited Express Super Hakuto from Osaka Station to Kurayoshi Station, and the journey will approximately take 2 hours and 30 minutes. To get to the town, one has to take a local bus from Kurayoshi Station to Hokuei, which is the location of the town. It is advisable to travel by train since the route is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, which is used by tourists. However, traveling by train is even more costly than the bus, but it is faster and more comfortable to get to the town.
By Bus: Budget-Friendly Alternative
For the cost-effective way of traveling from Osaka to Tottori Prefecture, there is an express bus available. It will take one about 3.5 to 4 hours to travel from Osaka to Tottori by bus, and from Tottori, it is possible to take either a local train or bus and get to Hokuei. The bus fare is, however, cheaper than the train fare, but the duration of the journey may be longer than that of the train. The seats are comfortable, and there is a provision of onboard lavatories, and thus, long-distance traveling is relatively comfortable. If you do not mind the extra time of travel, this one is the most economical of all.
By Car: Exploring at Your Own Pace
Driving from Osaka to Detective Conan Town provides the most flexibility. The journey takes about 3.5 hours via the Chūgoku Expressway and Yonago Expressway. Renting a car allows travelers to explore nearby attractions such as Tottori Sand Dunes or Kaike Onsen before heading to Hokuei. However, toll fees and fuel costs can add up, so it’s important to factor those into your budget. Having a GPS or navigation app is essential for a smooth road trip experience.
How to Travel from Kansai Airport to Detective Conan Town
By Train: Airport to Conan Town via Osaka
From Kansai International Airport (KIX), take the Kansai-Airport Express Haruka train to Shin-Osaka Station, which takes about 50 minutes. From there, transfer to the JR Limited Express Super Hakuto to reach Kurayoshi Station, followed by a local bus to Hokuei. The total journey takes about 4.5 hours. Although it involves multiple transfers, taking the train ensures a reliable and comfortable trip. If you're using a JR Pass, this is the most cost-effective way to travel.
By Bus: Affordable but Longer Journey
An alternative is to take an express bus from Kansai Airport to Tottori City, which takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. From Tottori, transfer to a local train or bus to reach Detective Conan Town. While bus fares are generally lower than train fares, the journey is longer, making it suitable for travelers who prefer saving money over time. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, as bus seats can fill up quickly during peak travel seasons.
By Car: Direct Route from Kansai Airport
Renting a car from Kansai Airport allows travelers to drive directly to Detective Conan Town. The road trip takes approximately 4.5 hours, following the same expressway routes as the Osaka journey. While this option provides the most freedom and the chance to explore rural Japan, it requires careful planning for toll fees, fuel stops, and parking. For families or groups, renting a car can be a cost-effective choice when splitting expenses.
Tips for Visiting Detective Conan Town
Best Time to Visit & Attractions to See
Detective Conan Town is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer the best weather. Key attractions include the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory, where visitors can learn about the Detective Conan series, and Conan Bridge, featuring character statues. Themed benches, murals, and Conan’s House-Beika Shopping Street make for fun photo opportunities. Visiting during special events, such as manga exhibitions, can enhance your experience.
Where to Stay & What to Eat
While most visitors explore Conan Town as a day trip, staying overnight in nearby Kurayoshi or Tottori offers more convenience. Kurayoshi has budget-friendly hotels, while Tottori provides a wider range of accommodations. Local dining options include seafood restaurants and Japanese-style cafés. Some shops offer Detective Conan-themed treats, making it a fun culinary experience for fans. Be sure to try regional specialties like Tottori’s famous pears and seafood rice bowls.
Conclusion
Traveling to Detective Conan Town from Osaka or Kansai Airport is an exciting journey, whether you prefer the speed of trains, the affordability of buses, or the flexibility of a rental car. Each transportation option offers its own advantages, allowing visitors to choose based on their budget and schedule. Once you arrive, the town’s immersive Detective Conan experience makes the trip worthwhile. With themed attractions, delicious food, and plenty of photo spots, fans of the series will find this destination unforgettable. Plan your trip carefully to make the most of your visit to this one-of-a-kind anime town.
