Tottori Sand Dune
(鳥取砂丘, Tottori Sakyu) : too good to be missed!!
Japan is blessed with natural beauty that stretches from north to south.
This country is actually not all about Sakura.
For some popular cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto we can easily get information. But there is one hidden gem that has not been widely discussed. I was completely unfamiliar with this location prior to my time spent in Japan. I have no idea why the name is not as well-known as the names of other landmarks in Japan that attract tourists.
When I found out that there is a dessert in Japan, this place immediately became one of my traveling bucket list in Japan. I never imagined that there are desserts in this country. I thought dessert only existed in the Middle East or Africa.
If you’ve never been to a desert, the Tottori Sand Dunes (鳥取砂丘, Tottori Sakyu) will transport you to a mini version of the world’s famed dry zones. Imagine an almost 30 km² (or so they say) expanse of sand, sand, and more sand, stretching out along the ocean in Japan’s San’in Region, a less visited location on the northern shoreline of Honshu Island.
I started out in the beginning of autum exploring this part of Japan. While the San’yo Region on Honshu Island’s southern beaches is on the “Golden Route” for travelers traveling from Tokyo via Kyoto to Hiroshima, the San’in Region is rarely included on travel itineraries.
Yet, I went there from Okayama and returned via Osaka. Tottori prefecture is a 2.5-hour rail ride from either large city. There is no shinkasen toward this city. To get the location, we can take regular buses, loop buses on weekends and holidays, or taxis. It takes approximately 20–25 minutes from Tottori Station.
My breath stopped the instant I stepped into this place. The scenery is magnificent! It’s as if we are not in Japan. It feels like you’ve been transported to another universe. The fine white sandy sea, combined with the blue tint of the ocean. It’s just gorgeous! They complemented each other, lined up side by side peacefully and wonderfully…
My eyes could not blink at this landscape. Like looking at a painting created by a grand master!
The sand dunes are part of Sanin Kaigan National Park. They were formed over thousands of years when sand from the neighboring Sendaigawa River was driven out to sea and subsequently redeposited along the coast by ocean currents.
Nowadays, the tides and coastal winds continuously shape the sand dunes, creating an ever-changing environment. The hill in the heart of the sand dunes is known as Umanose because it resembles a horse. Visitors at Umanose, can enjoy views of the Japan Sea and the surrounding mountains.
Walking up to the highest top of the dunes requires time and strength. Though I didn’t have much time, I pushed myself to visit this desert since I was fascinated in the perspective behind this desert. The strong wind and our feet sinking into the sand made our steps even harder. It reminds me of the journey to the summit of some mountains in Indonesia. The difference is that there are no small pebbles here, so it’s actually easier!
With the footprints of hundreds of other pairs of feet, it adds another spirit and color to the journey.
The fact that we are able to obtain a view that is just as spectacular after we reach the summit is something that I do not regret. With a lengthy coastline that stretches wonderfully with the boisterous tiny waves that reach numerous times to the edge of the beach, we can see the blue ocean as far as the eye can see. The coastline is long and lovely.
As you get to the top of the dunes, you’ll experience the refreshing sea breeze. Welcome to the breathtaking Sea of Japan!
I imagined how beautiful all these landscapes in front of me would change with the changing seasons. Even in one day we might be able to get different colors and experiences in this place. Of course, they are equally amazing!
The Tottori Sand Dunes offer an awe-inspiring experience, yet they remain a hidden gem that few people /tourist in Japan have explored.
This was an opportunity that simply couldn’t be missed.
I’ve even made a promise to myself to come back here the following season.
It is my sincere wish!
