Tottori Sand Dunes: Japan's Coastal Desert
Explore Japan's largest sand dunes: a unique coastal landscape offering stunning views and thrilling activities in Tottori.
The Tottori Sand Dunes (鳥取砂丘, Tottori Sakyu) are a remarkable natural formation stretching along the Sea of Japan coast in Tottori Prefecture. These dunes, the largest in Japan, span 16 kilometers in length and up to 2 kilometers in width, with some dunes reaching 50 meters in height. Their existence is owed to the Sendai River, which carries sediment from the Chūgoku Mountains to the sea, where currents and winds deposit it back onto the shore, constantly reshaping the landscape. For over 100,000 years, the Tottori Sand Dunes have been sculpted by natural forces, offering visitors an ever-changing panorama. The main sightseeing area lies within a half-kilometer stretch between the visitor center and the sea, showcasing the largest dunes and providing breathtaking coastal views. Beyond the scenery, the dunes offer various activities, including camel rides, paragliding, and sandboarding. The Sand Museum, located nearby, displays impressive sand sculptures created by international artists, with exhibitions changing annually. In 2025, the theme of the exhibition is Japan, running from April 25, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The Tottori Sand Dunes are not only a scenic attraction but also a protected area within the Sanin Kaigan National Park and a part of the San'in Kaigan Geopark, recognized by UNESCO. This recognition highlights the area's geological significance and the ongoing efforts to preserve its unique environment. Visitors can explore the Tottori Sand Dunes Visitor Center to learn more about the dunes' formation, ecology, and the surrounding geopark.
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear; the sand can get hot in summer. Boots can be rented near the parking lot.
- Visit the Tottori Sand Dunes Visitor Center to learn about the dunes' history and ecology.
- Consider visiting the Sand Museum to see impressive sand sculptures.
- Try sandboarding or paragliding for an adventurous experience.
- Check the weather forecast, as some activities may be suspended in bad weather.
A brief summary to Tottori Sand Dunes
- 2164-971 Fukubecho Yuyama, Tottori, Fukubecho Yuyama, Tottori, 689-0105, JP
- +81857-22-0021
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Tottori Station, take a bus bound for the Tottori Sand Dunes (鳥取砂丘). Both Nihon Kotsu and Hinomaru buses operate on this route. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs 380 yen. Alternatively, the Kirin Jishi Loop Bus is available on weekends and holidays, with a fare of 300 yen per ride or 600 yen for a 1-day pass.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Tottori Station to the Tottori Sand Dunes takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately 3000 yen.
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Driving
If driving, take the Tottori Expressway to the Tottori Interchange (鳥取IC), from which the dunes are about a 20-minute drive. Use the Tottori Sand Dunes Parking Lot (鳥取砂丘駐車場) in front of the Tottori Sand Dunes Visitor Center. Parking costs 500 yen per day for cars. Note that there are no dedicated parking spots at the Visitor Center itself.
