Historically, Tottori-shi served as the capital of Inaba Province, a strategically important domain throughout Japan's feudal era, particularly evident during the Sengoku period with the fierce siege of Tottori Castle by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

The city is famously home to the Tottori Sand Dunes (Tottori Sakyu), Japan's largest sand dunes, stretching approximately 16 kilometers along the Sea of Japan coast and formed over thousands of years by sediment from the Sendai River.

Tottori-shi officially became a city in 1889, though its urban development faced significant setbacks from devastating events like the Great Tottori Fire of 1952 and the powerful Tottori Earthquake of 1943.

The region's economy traditionally relied on agriculture, notably producing the highly prized Nijisseiki Nashi (20th Century Pear) and shallots, alongside a thriving fishing industry leveraging its coastal location.

Contemporary Tottori-shi has diversified its economy with a strong focus on tourism, attracting visitors to its unique natural landscapes, hot springs, and cultural sites, complemented by local government services and light manufacturing.

Demographically, Tottori-shi exhibits a trend of gradual population decline, mirroring patterns in many rural prefectural capitals across Japan, with an aging population and a relatively lower population density compared to major metropolitan areas.

The Tottori Sand Dunes are not only a National Natural Monument but also a core component of the San'in Kaigan Global Geopark, which holds UNESCO Global Geopark status, highlighting its geological significance.

One of the city's most vibrant cultural events is the Tottori Shanshan Matsuri, a lively summer festival renowned for its spectacular "Kasa Odori" (umbrella dance) performed by thousands of participants adorned with decorative umbrellas.

Beyond the dunes, the city's historical landmarks include the atmospheric ruins of Tottori Castle, perched atop Mount Kyusho, offering historical insights and panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Jinpukaku, a splendid French Renaissance-style mansion completed in 1907, once served as a residence for the Ikeda clan, former lords of the Tottori Domain, and now functions as a museum showcasing local history and culture.

Traditional craftsmanship thrives in Tottori-shi, particularly through the production of Inshu Washi, a renowned type of handmade paper with a history spanning over 1,200 years, and distinctive local pottery.

Tottori Prefecture, with Tottori-shi as its capital, has historically been a less industrialized region, allowing it to preserve much of its natural environment and traditional character compared to more urbanized areas of Japan.

The city's cuisine is deeply rooted in its geography, featuring fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, particularly snow crab and squid, alongside locally grown produce and specialties like Tottori ramen.

Efforts in Tottori-shi are ongoing to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, especially around the fragile ecosystem of the sand dunes, balancing visitor experience with ecological preservation.

While not a national political or scientific hub, Tottori-shi plays a vital role as the administrative, educational, and cultural center for Tottori Prefecture, providing essential services and fostering regional identity.