Tottori Sand Dunes
鳥取砂丘
Japan’s most famous coastal sand dunes, about 16 km long from east to west. Climbing the “horseback” sand ridge, about 47 m high, gives a view over the Sea of Japan.
The Tottori Sand Dunes are the core of the San’in Coast Global Geopark. They were formed by sand carried down by the Chiyo River and piled up by the wind. The open sightseeing area measures about 2.4 km from east to west, with height differences of up to 90 m. From the entrance, walk through the hollow “Oasis” and climb the “Horseback” ridge, a 20-minute trek. On the far side of the ridge lies the Sea of Japan. You can ride camels, take horse-drawn carriages, go sandboarding, or try paragliding, and at dawn you can see wind ripples in the sand. Admission is free. From JR Tottori Station, take a bus for about 20 minutes. A cable car at the center of the dunes runs up and down. Wear sneakers, and in summer protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.
Opening hours
Open all day (surrounding facilities approx. 09:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- The Sand Museum
- Jinpukaku
- Tottori Castle Ruins (Kyusho Park)
- Tottori Folkcraft Museum
- Kannon-in Garden
- Tottori Port Seafood Market Karoichi
- Uradome Coast
- Hakuto Shrine