Tottori Sand Dunes
Explore Japan’s largest sand dunes
About Sand Dunes
The Tottori Sand Dunes (in Japanese – 鳥取砂丘, Tottori Sakyu) are large sand dunes located just outside the city center and are Tottori‘s most famous tourist attraction. Therefore, it is a must for any visitor to Tottori.
They extend for about 16 kilometers along the coast of the Sea of Japan and are up to two kilometers wide and 50 meters high.
How it was created
The sand dunes were formed thousands of years ago when sand carried by the nearby Sendai River was washed out into the sea. Strong winds and a strong current deposited the sand along the coast.
Today, the constant movement of the tides and the coastal winds continuously shape the sand dunes and provide an ever changing landscape.
The main activiy
The main sightseeing area spans a half kilometer of sand between the visitor center and the sea. Many of the largest sand dunes are found here, and their tops provide visitors with beautiful views out over the coast. From here you can also explore the vast expanses of sand which lead off for several kilometers in almost every direction.
Camels!
Another activity that you can experience in Sand Dunes, is riding on a camel!
Camel riding is popular with everyone from young children to senior people. From the high camel back, you can widen the view and overlook the Sea of Japan and the entire sand dunes.
It a tourist attraction so it is a little bit pricy, and costs ￥1,500 for few minutes ride.
Information
Hours:
24 hours
Camel Rides:
9:30 to 16:00 (from 10:00 from December to February)
Access:
From Tottori Station, there a bus bound for the Tottori Sakyu (鳥取砂丘).
It takes 20 minutes and costs about ￥380
Address:
2164-661 Fukubecho Yuyama, Tottori, 689-0105
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