What are the Tottori Sand Dunes?

The Tottori Sand Dunes are Japan’s largest sand dunes, located along the coast of Tottori Prefecture. Stretching over 16 kilometers, the dunes feature undulating landscapes formed by centuries of coastal wind and sea currents, creating a unique desert-like terrain.

How do I get to the Tottori Sand Dunes?

The dunes are accessible via Tottori Station, with direct bus routes that take around 20 minutes to reach the site. Visitors coming from Osaka or Kyoto can take the limited express trains to Tottori Station or fly into Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport for a quicker route.

What activities are available at the Tottori Sand Dunes?

Visitors can enjoy sandboarding, paragliding, camel rides, and exploring the dunes on foot. There is also a Sand Museum nearby featuring intricate sand sculptures created by international artists.

What should I wear when visiting the Tottori Sand Dunes?

It’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for sandy terrain and sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially during the summer. Bring layers to stay warm in cooler months, as the wind can make it chilly.

Is there an entrance fee for the Tottori Sand Dunes?

No, the dunes are free to visit. However, some activities like sandboarding, camel rides, and the Sand Museum have fees associated with them.

Tottori

Tottori Sand Dunes

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Tottori Sand Dunes, located along the coast of the Sea of Japan, are Japan’s largest sand dunes, covering over 30 square kilometers. These dunes have been shaped over thousands of years by winds carrying sand from the nearby Chugoku Mountains. The tallest dune reaches about 50 meters in height, offering breathtaking views of the sea. Visitors can walk, ride camels, or even try sandboarding across the ridges.

The dunes are part of the San’in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark, showcasing the natural beauty and geological significance of the area. The changing patterns on the surface are a result of the wind's ongoing interaction with the sand, creating a dynamic environment. The nearby Tottori Sand Museum features intricate sand sculptures made by artists from around the world, adding a cultural element to the natural wonder.

The area

Address

Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Tottori Sand Dunes

The Tottori Sand Dunes are a must-see if you’re visiting the region. The landscape is striking and unlike anything else in Japan, with wide open views and dramatic dune formations that make the walk both enjoyable and memorable. It’s an easy place to spend a couple of hours exploring and taking in the scenery. One practical tip: wearing slippers or sandals is highly recommended. The sand gets into regular shoes very easily, and walking becomes much more comfortable with open footwear. On hot days, the sand can also warm up quickly, so lighter footwear makes the experience easier. Overall, the Tottori Sand Dunes are a unique and worthwhile destination, especially for those who enjoy nature and wide scenic views.

Nearby attractions to see

Utsubuki Park

Himeji Castle

Koko-en Garden

Nearby attractions to see

Utsubuki Park

Himeji Castle

Koko-en Garden

More about Tottori Sand Dunes from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Visited in winter and honestly, the cold almost broke me. Strong wind, freezing temperature, and zero mercy from the weather — come prepared or you’ll suffer. The dunes are huge and way more physically demanding than they look. Lots of walking, constant up and down on soft sand, and it really drains your stamina. This is not a chill stroll. That said, the view is insane. Endless sand directly meeting the sea is a crazy natural phenomenon, and I’ve never seen anything like this elsewhere in Japan. The contrast feels even wilder considering Tottori is one of the least populated and least visited prefectures, yet this place is packed with tourists. Iconic for a reason.