Tottori Sand Dunes

Sand dunes that span 16 km, east to west. See, experience and have fun!

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Experience the exceptional expanse of space at Japan’s largest sand dune stretching along the coast. The variety of activities range from sightseeing on a camel, paragliding to sandboarding.
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(0857) 22-0581

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About

Actually walk and explore through nature-created art

The Tottori Sand Dunes are a nature spot that represents Tottori Prefecture. Nationally designated as a Natural Monument, the sand dunes which were selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Geological Features boast an east-west width of 16km and a distance that spans 2.4km from north to south. You could imagine it as a flat sand field but it is unexpectedly rugged. The slightly elevated hill known as The Horse’s Back which can be seen at the front has a height of 40m. The contrast of the white sand seen from the peak and the blue ocean is wonderful and it’s well worth the climb. The ponds known as suribachi are also a special part of the dunes. There were once over 30 of these ponds in the past but currently there are only 10. The largest suribachi is Origo Suribachi and it appears as a volcanic crater with a depth of 40m. Standing on the sparsely populated dunes in the wind-swept early morning, you will find ripple-like patterns known as fuumon. It makes for valuable scenery that couldn’t be viewed unless various conditions were met.

The ocean, wind and sand. Have fun in the blessings of nature.

There are nothing but activities with a difference on the sand dunes. There is not only camel sightseeing that is rare even in Japan but also walking around the area. First-timers are also welcome to try paragliding. You can enjoy as many things as you like without coming across any obstacles of wood or stone on the dunes. Sandboarding, which is popular worldwide, is a sport where you can slide down the sand just like snowboarding. You can enjoy it in many ways whether you are a beginner or an advanced participant. Sand yoga is something that can only be done here. The power of land, sky and sea can be felt with the whole body whether you are basking in the morning sun, viewing the sunset or just being under the starry sky and full moon.

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Reviews

7 years ago
A place you didn't expect to see in Japan
I was told about this place by a friend and I didn't really think too much about a sand dunes in Japan? But when you see the real thing, it is very impressive and you can only wonder if you are really in Japan! Despite of the strong wind and sand everywhere, we climbed the big dune to see the beautiful view of the sea. I would like to come back there again in the night, as according to my friend, we can see pretty lights from the city!
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7 years ago
Great place to enjoy amazing sunset view!
Ueda Shoji is one of my favorite Japanese photographer. He took many excellent pictures here in Tottori Sand Dunes. That's why I alway wanna visit this place. In tottori Sand Dunes, if you climb up to the sand hill, you can feel the breeze from the sea of Japan. The sunset view here is really amazing, too. At the same time, you have to be careful don't missing the last bus.
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