Aug 29, 2013 - 1 min read

Sunset at Tottori Sand Dunes

Japan has a little bit of everything

By Anonymous

Community writer

Sunrise or sunset, the dunes are especially breathtaking

Many people gather on the largest of the dunes to watch the sun disappear below the horizon

People often overlook the fact that the dunes lead to a very beautiful beach

Dogs are allowed throughout the dunes, although there are signs reminding you to clean up after them!

Most people like to walk to the top of the tallest dune, and so it is always full of people

Grass grows in some parts of the dunes, in fact, the prefectural government has programs to remove the encroaching grassland every year in order to preserve the dunes

Many websites rave about the wind circles made in the sand, and decry about how the footsteps of tourists ruin them by midday. This photo was taken moments after sunrise, so don't expect the sand to be appear untouched

Camel rides make for a cute photo session

The approach from the south is nice and easy, but it is much steeper on the other side. People enjoy trying to run up and down it, and its a good way to tire your children out!

Sand sculptures can be found not only at the sand museum, but many locations throughout the city such as at cafes, stores, and even the mall!

This is a picture taken from the camel riding area, showing people making the pilgrimage to the top of the sand dune. As you can see, it is a short walk

Quite possibly Tottori's most famous feature, the sand dunes along the Japan Sea are a must see for anyone visiting this sparsely populated prefecture. Located just minutes from the city center, access is very simple. It is quite popular, so unless you come at night don't expect to have the dunes to yourself.

There's a free campground located near the western edge of the dunes, with bathroom and cooking facilities. Be sure to stop by the sand museum, where there are beautiful sand sculptures. Camel rides are popular, but are very short (you walk in a circle smaller than a baseball diamond for less than 10 minutes) and are quite expensive. This might be a fun activity for kids, but adults would probably not find it entertaining. During summer months it's often for kids only.

More info

Find out more about Tottori Sand Dunes.

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By Anonymous

Alena Eckelmann 3 years ago

Gorgeous photos! Did you know that the Tottori Sand Dunes were the setting for a movie? A 1964 drama/thriller called "Women in the Dunes". Being in the dunes, one can easily imagine the movie setting.

Iain Stanley 9 years ago

I wonder if the dunes experience much wind? As a person who loves to take photos, I am always wary about the mixture of sand and wind - not a great combination for your precious camera!!