Tottori Sand Dunes: The Magical Wonders of Nature

Some dunes rise up to 50 meters, creating a spectacular sight

The Tottori Sand Dunes have a history of over 100,000 years and are situated on the western side of the San'in Kaigan National Park, stretching 2.4 kilometers north-south and nearly 16 kilometers along the coast. The dunes were formed by the Chiyo River in Tottori, which carried sediment from the nearby mountains of the San'in region to the Japan Sea. However, due to strong ocean currents and sea winds, the sediment was pushed back to the coast, creating the dunes. Constantly shaped and reshaped by the fierce sea winds, the sands have accumulated over the years to form a golden landscape spanning 30 square kilometers. Some dunes reach heights of up to 50 meters, making it a unique wonder that attracts over 1.3 million visitors each year.

Camel Rides and Cable Car Views of the Dunes

Stepping into the dune area allows you to experience the vastness and magnificence of the dunes. Walking on the sand, you can feel the undulating terrain underfoot. If you reach the high point known as "Bakujin," you can enjoy the expansive view and the unique sand patterns created by the winds from the Japan Sea. For a different perspective, you can ride a camel, which offers a broader view from atop the tall animal, providing a unique experience of the dunes.

Additionally, you can take a sightseeing cable car to reach the observation deck in the center of the dunes, where you can gaze down at the sand dunes and the Japan Sea. There are also various unique activities to enjoy, including paragliding, sandboarding, and experiencing yoga at sunrise, sunset, or under the starry sky.

Sand Museum: Traveling the World with Sand

To appreciate the magic brought by "sand" and "water," visit the "Sand Museum" located near the Tottori Sand Dunes. The Sand Museum is the world's only indoor art museum that uses "sand" as the material for its sculptures. With the theme of "Traveling the World with Sand," the museum invites sand sculptors from around the globe each year to create large sand sculptures based on various themes, paying meticulous attention to detail and showcasing works of high artistic value.

One major feature of the museum is the concept of "ichigo ichie," where the sculpting theme changes each year, providing a completely different experience with each visit. Past exhibition themes have included Nordic, South Asian, Czech and Slovak, and Egyptian themes. 

Starting in April 2024, the exhibition will focus on France, inspired by the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, featuring sand sculptors from 20 countries showcasing France's tumultuous history and splendid artistic culture. Notable works will include the Palace of Versailles, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables." Due to the nature of sand sculptures, which can easily collapse over time, there are restrictions on viewing locations and times. The exhibition usually runs from April to January of the following year, so it's best to check the official website for the exhibition dates before visiting.

Tottori Sand Dunes
•    Address: 2164-661 Yuyama, Fukube-cho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture
•    Website: https://www.tottori-guide.jp/sakyu/

Sand Museum
•    Address: 2083-17 Yuyama, Fukube-cho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture
•    Website: https://www.sand-museum.jp/