Solo Expedition to the Tottori Sand Dunes

Whispers of Water and Echoes of Laughter

Today was a day of unexpected delights, a gentle reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones you don't meticulously plan. It was a blend of natural beauty and nostalgic charm, a perfect recipe for a soul-soothing day in Tottori. I set out with a rough itinerary, but as usual, the day unfolded in its own unique and wonderful way.

My morning started with breakfast at Ray Garden. I chose this place because I read it was located near the Tottori Sand Dunes and offered outdoor seating with scenic views. I enjoyed a classic Japanese breakfast set, which included grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and tsukemono (Japanese pickles). The grilled fish was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender, flaky meat. The miso soup was flavorful and comforting, and the rice was perfectly cooked and fluffy. The tsukemono added a nice touch of acidity and crunch to the meal. I was the only tourist at Ray Garden, so I felt I was getting an authentic Japanese experience.


Experience exquisite dining at Ray Garden in Tottori—where local flavors meet stunning views in an enchanting setting.

After breakfast, I drove to Amedaki Falls. The drive itself was lovely, with winding roads through lush green hills. I was listening to Japanese pop music on the radio, which added to the experience. When I arrived at Amedaki Falls, I was immediately struck by the tranquility of the place. The air was fresh and clean, and the sound of the waterfall was incredibly soothing. The falls are about 40 meters high, and the water cascades down a rocky cliff into a clear pool below. The name Amedaki literally translates to Rain Falls, which is quite fitting as the mist from the falls feels like a gentle rain shower.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Amedaki Falls in Tottori, Japan – a serene retreat surrounded by lush nature and stunning landscapes.

The walk to the falls was an easy, well-maintained path, even though it was humid, the canopy provided shade. The path meandered alongside the river, and I passed several smaller waterfalls along the way. I took my time, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos. I could see why this place has been used for ascetic training since ancient times; there's a palpable sense of peace and spirituality here. The falls are considered one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, and I could see why. The power and beauty of the water were mesmerizing. I spent a good hour just sitting on a rock, listening to the water and feeling the mist on my face. It was a perfect moment of zen.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, where nature whispers secrets to those who listen.

For lunch, I headed to Drive in Sakyu, a restaurant that came highly recommended for its local cuisine and proximity to the sand dunes. I decided to try their seafood donburi, a bowl of rice topped with fresh, local seafood. It was absolutely delicious! The fish was incredibly fresh, and the rice was perfectly seasoned. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures of travel – good food, beautiful scenery, and moments of quiet reflection. Drive in Sakyu seems to be a popular place for tourists to buy souvenirs. I bought a small bag of local cookies to bring back to Hans in Heidelberg.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Drive in Sakyu in Tottori—delicious food awaits you!

After lunch, I decided to visit WarabeKan. It was originally built as the Tottori Prefectural Library in the early Showa period and has been renovated into a children's museum. The exterior of the building retains the original library's facade, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Inside, I found a treasure trove of toys and nursery rhymes. It was like stepping back into my childhood. Karen, I thought to myself, you are a grown woman, what are you doing here? But I couldn't help but smile as I wandered through the exhibits. There were displays of traditional Japanese toys, like kendama and origami, as well as vintage toys from around the world. I even found a display of Danish toys, which brought back fond memories of my childhood in Svendborg.


Explore WarabeKan in Tottori, Japan - a captivating toy museum that revives childhood memories and sparks joy for all ages.

The museum also had a room dedicated to nursery rhymes, with recordings of classic Japanese children's songs. I found myself humming along to some of the tunes, even though I didn't understand all the lyrics. It was a heartwarming experience, and I felt a sense of connection to Japanese culture. The Warabekan is a cultural tourist facility promoting Tottori as the home of children's songs. I can see why the locals would choose Warabekan as a nickname for the museum. It is widely known by the citizens and residents of Tottori Prefecture. Warabekan is a place where children can see, hear, and touch a wide range of toys, and it is a nostalgic place for adults.

As the day drew to a close, I decided to treat myself to a drink at Bar Zen. I was in the mood for something local, so I asked the bartender to recommend a Japanese whisky. He poured me a glass of Suntory, and I savored the smooth, smoky flavor as I reflected on the day. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals. They were curious about my travels, and I was happy to share my experiences with them. I learned that BAR Zen is a Yakitori restaurant, and the owner is involved in music. The interior of the restaurant has many autographs and posters of celebrities.


Discover the cozy atmosphere and local flavors at Bar Zen, the perfect retreat for tourists in Tottori's lively nightlife scene.

Today was a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that unfold organically. I didn't have a rigid itinerary, and I allowed myself to be open to new experiences. As I walked back to my ryokan, I felt a sense of contentment. Tottori had surprised me with its natural beauty and cultural charm. I was grateful for the opportunity to explore this hidden gem of Japan.

Tomorrow, I’m planning to visit the Tottori Sand Dunes Paraglider Sakyu Honpo for a bird's-eye view of the landscape, followed by a relaxing visit to IchiriMatsu. I’m also looking forward to trying SUNABA COFFEE for breakfast, Wakabayashi for lunch, and Bon-appetit for dinner. And maybe I'll pick up a souvenir at the Tottori Sand Dunes Park Service Center. It sounds like another day filled with adventure and discovery!

The weather forecast for tomorrow is partly cloudy, with a high of 30°C (86°F) and a low of 22°C (72°F). I will make sure to bring sunscreen to protect myself from the sun. I will also bring my reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. I should also remember to bring my portable phone charger, which I forgot to pack for this trip. The weather in Tottori in July is tropical, with high humidity and temperatures. I am glad I brought comfortable and breathable clothing for this trip. I am also glad I packed my hiking boots, as I will be doing a lot of walking.

Until tomorrow!