Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Okayama Airport (OKJ) to Tottori City is by combining the airport limousine bus with the JR Limited Express train. First, take the bus from the airport to Okayama Station (30 min, ¥1,070). Then, board the direct Limited Express Super Hakuto or Super Inaba train from Okayama Station to Tottori Station (approx. 2 hours 10 min, ¥5,960). Total journey time is around 3 hours with a total cost of about ¥7,030. This offers the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience.
By Train & Shinkansen (The Most Efficient Method)
Taking the train is the most recommended method for most travelers due to its reliability, frequency, and scenic views of the Chugoku region. All journeys start with getting from Okayama Airport to Okayama Station, as the airport has no direct rail connection.
| Route Option | Key Steps | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Limited Express | 1. Bus to Okayama Stn. 2. Super Hakuto/Super Inaba to Tottori | ~3 hours | ¥7,030 | Balance of speed & cost, JR Pass users |
| Shinkansen + Limited Express | 1. Bus to Okayama Stn. 2. Shinkansen to Himeji/Kobe 3. Super Hakuto to Tottori | ~2.5 - 2.75 hours | ¥9,000 - ¥11,000 | Absolute fastest time, comfort |
| Local Train (Budget) | 1. Bus to Okayama Stn. 2. Multiple local JR trains (via Chizu) | ~4+ hours | ~Â¥4,500 | Extreme budget, no time pressure |
Step 1: Okayama Airport to Okayama Station
The Okayama Airport Limousine Bus is the only public transport linking the airport to the city. Buses depart from directly outside the arrivals hall. The ride to JR Okayama Station's east exit takes 30 minutes and costs ¥1,070 (payable in cash or IC card). Buses run approximately every 20-30 minutes from early morning until late evening. Check the official timetable here.
Step 2: Choosing Your Train from Okayama Station to Tottori
At Okayama Station, proceed to the JR train platforms. You have three main choices:
- Limited Express Super Hakuto/Super Inaba (Recommended): This is the most straightforward option. These comfortable, reserved-seat trains run directly from Okayama to Tottori along the JR Hakubi and San'in Lines. The ride takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. Non-reserved seats are available but can fill up. Fare: ¥5,960.
- Shinkansen + Transfer: For maximum speed, take the Sakura or Kodama Shinkansen west from Okayama to Himeji or Shin-Kobe (20-30 min). Then, transfer to the Super Hakuto going to Tottori. This minimizes time on slower conventional lines. Total train cost: ~Â¥8,000-Â¥10,000.
- JR Pass Note: Both the Super Hakuto and the Shinkansen (except Nozomi) are fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Remember to budget separately for the non-JR airport bus.
By Domestic Flight (Okayama to Yonago)
Flying is an option but is rarely the most practical choice for this route. JAC (Japan Air Commuter) operates 2-3 daily flights from Okayama (OKJ) to Yonago Airport (YGJ), which serves the wider Tottori region.
The Reality of "Door-to-Door" Time
While the flight itself is only 35 minutes, the total journey time is much longer:
- Okayama Airport to Tottori City via Flight: Airport Bus to Okayama Stn. (30 min) â Train to Okayama Airport? (Wait) â Check-in/Security (60 min pre-flight) â Flight (35 min) â Deplane at Yonago Airport â Bus/Taxi from Yonago Airport to Tottori Stn. (45-60 min). Total: ~4+ hours and Â¥15,000+.
- Okayama Airport to Tottori City via Train: Airport Bus to Okayama Stn. (30 min) â Wait for train (20 min) â Direct Limited Express to Tottori (2h10m). Total: ~3 hours and Â¥7,030.
Verdict: The train is consistently faster and cheaper for the point-to-point journey. Flying may only make sense if you have a connecting international flight at Okayama and don't wish to enter Japan, or if you hold a discounted domestic flight pass.
By Highway Bus & Night Bus (The Cheapest Option)
For budget-conscious travelers, the highway bus is the most economical way to reach Tottori from the Okayama region. It sacrifices time for significant cost savings.
Daytime Highway Buses
Operated by companies like Nihon Kotsu and Chugoku JR Bus, these buses connect Okayama Station (the same destination as the airport bus) directly with Tottori Station.
- Departure Point: Okayama Station (East Exit) bus terminal.
- Arrival Point: Tottori Station (East Exit) bus terminal.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes.
- Cost: Typically between ¥3,500 and ¥4,500 for a one-way ticket.
- Frequency: 5-7 services per day.
- Booking: Highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. You can book online via Japan Bus Online or at the bus terminal.
Night Buses
If you are arriving on a late flight and don't mind traveling overnight, a night bus can save you a night's accommodation cost. However, connections from the airport are tight.
- Operation: Usually depart from Okayama around 11:00 PM - 1:00 AM and arrive in Tottori around 5:00 AM - 7:00 AM.
- Features: Reclining seats, blankets sometimes provided. Not as comfortable as a train but functional.
- Luggage: Usually one large suitcase included. Check specific restrictions when booking.
Total Journey Cost from Airport: Airport Bus (¥1,070) + Highway Bus (¥4,000 avg.) = ¥5,070.
By Taxi or Private Transfer (For Special Circumstances)
This is the least recommended option for standard tourism due to its exorbitant cost. A direct taxi or pre-booked private transfer from Okayama Airport to Tottori City covers a distance of over 150 km.
- Estimated Cost: ¥60,000 to ¥80,000 (approx. $400-$550 USD) one-way.
- Duration: Around 2 hours 30 minutes by road, depending on traffic.
- When It Might Be Justified:
- Traveling in a group of 4+ people where the cost can be split.
- Arriving with a lot of specialized equipment (e.g., golf bags, ski gear) that is difficult on public transport.
- Travelers with severe mobility issues where train transfers are prohibitive.
- Extremely late-night arrivals after all public transport has stopped (though staying in Okayama is still a far cheaper alternative).
For a private transfer, it's essential to book in advance through a reputable service. Spontaneous taxi hires for such a long distance may be refused or require negotiation.
Ticket Options & Cost Comparison Table
Below is a definitive comparison to help you decide the best mode of transport based on your priorities of budget, speed, and convenience.
| Transport Method | Total Approx. Time (Door-to-Door) | Total Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Transfers / Complexity | Key Advantage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Direct Ltd. Exp.) | ~3 hours | ¥7,030 | 2 (Bus + Train) | Best overall balance | Most travelers, JR Pass holders |
| Train (Shinkansen + Ltd. Exp.) | ~2.5 - 2.75 hours | ¥9,000 - ¥11,000 | 3 (Bus + Shinkansen + Train) | Fastest possible time | Time-sensitive business travel |
| Highway Bus | ~3.5 - 4 hours | ¥5,070 | 2 (Bus + Bus) | Cheapest option | Budget travelers, backpackers |
| Domestic Flight | ~4+ hours | ¥15,000+ | 4+ (Multiple transfers) | Minimal land travel | Connecting from international flights (rare) |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | ~2.5 hours | ¥60,000 - ¥80,000 | 0 (Direct) | Door-to-door, no transfers | Groups, special needs, emergencies |
Where to Buy Tickets
- Airport Bus: Buy from the ticket machine or counter outside Okayama Airport Arrivals. IC cards (ICOCA, Suica) are accepted.
- Train Tickets: Purchase at the JR Ticket Office (Midori no Madoguchi) or from automated machines at Okayama Station. You can also use a smartcard for base fare and pay a supplement for limited express.
- Bus Tickets (Okayama-Tottori): Book online in advance via Japan Bus Online or buy at the bus terminal counter at Okayama Station.
- JR Pass: Must be purchased outside of Japan as an exchange order. Activate it at the JR Office at major stations like Okayama upon arrival.
Traveler Tips & Practical Experience
Beyond schedules and fares, here is crucial advice from experienced travelers who have made this journey.
- Handle Your Luggage Smartly: The transfer at Okayama Station from bus to train can involve stairs and crowds. For large suitcases, use the "Takkyubin" (luggage forwarding) service. Companies like Yamato Transport have counters at Okayama Airport. Send your bags directly to your Tottori hotel (Â¥2,000-Â¥3,000 per piece, next-day delivery). Travel with just a daypack.
- Master the Okayama Station Transfer: The airport bus stops at the east exit. The JR trains depart from the main concourse. Allow a minimum of 20-25 minutes between your bus arrival and train departure to account for finding your platform, buying tickets, and potential queues.
- Seat Reservations are Advisable: Especially on the Super Hakuto during peak travel seasons (Golden Week, Obon, autumn foliage). A reserved seat costs an extra ¥510-¥720 but guarantees you a spot and peace of mind.
- Check for Direct Bus from Airport? There is no direct bus from Okayama Airport to Tottori City. Any online information suggesting otherwise is likely outdated or incorrect. The two-step process (airport bus + separate train/bus) is mandatory.
- Food & Amenities: Buy drinks and snacks (ekiben station lunch boxes) from the vast selection at Okayama Station before boarding your long train ride. Options on the train are limited.
- WiFi & Power: Most Limited Express trains and Shinkansen have power outlets at seats. Free WiFi on trains can be unreliable; consider renting a pocket WiFi or getting a local SIM card at the airport.
FAQs: Okayama Airport to Tottori Transportation
Is there a direct train from Okayama Airport to Tottori City?
No, there is no direct train. The journey always requires at least one transfer. First, you must take a bus or taxi from Okayama Airport to Okayama Station (the main Shinkansen hub), then take a train (either the Limited Express or Shinkansen + local train) to Tottori Station.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Okayama Airport to Tottori?
The cheapest way is by using the highway bus. A one-way ticket from Okayama Station (after reaching it from the airport) to Tottori typically costs between ¥3,500 and ¥4,500, making it significantly cheaper than train options, even when adding the cost of the airport bus.
What is the fastest way to get from Okayama Airport to Tottori City?
The fastest overall door-to-door method is by train using the Shinkansen. The combination of the airport bus to Okayama Station + Shinkansen to Himeji/Kobe + Limited Express Super Hakuto to Tottori can complete the journey in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on connections.
Can I use the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for this journey?
Yes, but with limitations. The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen (Nozomi excluded) and JR Limited Express trains (like the Super Hakuto) on this route. However, it does NOT cover the non-JR airport limousine bus from Okayama Airport to Okayama Station. You would need to pay for that bus separately (approx. ¥1,070).
Is flying from Okayama to Tottori (Yonago) a good option?
Usually, no. While the flight from Okayama to Yonago Airport is very short (~35 min), the total door-to-door time (airport transfers, security, flight, then travel from Yonago Airport to Tottori City) often exceeds 3.5 hours and is more expensive than the train. It's only worth considering for connecting from international flights without leaving the airport.
What should I do if my flight arrives at Okayama Airport late at night?
Options are very limited after around 9:00 PM. The last buses/trains to Tottori usually depart earlier. Your only practical choices are: 1) Stay overnight in Okayama city, or 2) Take a taxi directly from the airport, which is extremely expensive (Â¥60,000+). We strongly recommend booking a flight that arrives during daytime hours.
Is the journey suitable for travelers with a lot of luggage or children?
It can be challenging. For large luggage, use a luggage forwarding service (Takkyubin). For families with children and strollers, the train (with reserved seats) is best. Be mindful of transfers and allow extra time. Some trains have multi-purpose rooms, but these cannot be reserved.
How frequent are the trains and buses?
The airport bus runs every 20-30 min. The direct Limited Express Super Hakuto trains run roughly every 1-2 hours during the day. Highway buses run 5-7 times daily. Always check the latest schedules close to your travel date, as services can change seasonally.