Tottori Sand Dunes Kodomo no Kuni
Experience Japan's largest sand dunes, a unique desert landscape meeting the sea, offering adventure and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Tottori Sand Dunes Kodomo no Kuni
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Japan's largest sand dunes, a unique desert landscape meeting the sea, offering adventure and stunning natural beauty.
"A surreal desert landscape by the sea, perfect for adventure and breathtaking photos!"
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Closed-toe shoes are best for walking on the sand. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Sand Dunes
Tottori Sand Dunes
Vast, rolling sand dunes offering a unique desert-like landscape by the sea. Perfect for photos and exploration.
Sandboarding Adventure
Tottori Sand Dunes
Experience the thrill of sliding down the dunes on a sandboard. Rentals are available on-site.
Camel Rides
Tottori Sand Dunes
Enjoy a unique perspective of the dunes with a guided camel ride. A memorable experience for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for the Dunes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Closed-toe shoes are best for walking on the sand. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is key.
Capture the magic :camera_with_flash:
The dunes offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Sandboarding fun :surfer:
Rent a sandboard for an exhilarating ride down the dunes. It's a must-try activity!
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Closed-toe shoes are best for walking on the sand. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection is key.
Capture the magic :camera_with_flash:
The dunes offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Sandboarding fun :surfer:
Rent a sandboard for an exhilarating ride down the dunes. It's a must-try activity!
Consider a camel ride :camel:
A unique way to experience the vastness of the dunes. Great for photos too!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique desert-like landscape of the Tottori Sand Dunes, especially its proximity to the ocean. The opportunity for sandboarding and camel rides adds an element of adventure. Some visitors note that it can get very hot and windy, and recommend visiting during cooler hours.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take a bus from Tottori Station. Look for the 'Kirin Jishi' bus bound for the Tottori Sand Dunes. The ride takes about 20 minutes.
Yes, there is parking available at the Tottori Sand Dunes. It's a convenient option if you're traveling by car.
Local buses are frequent and a popular choice. They drop you off right near the entrance to the dunes.
The closest airport is Tottori Airport (TTJ), which has domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Tottori Station.
Yes, it's a popular day trip destination from Tottori City. Many visitors combine it with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Tottori Sand Dunes themselves are a natural attraction and generally free to enter. However, specific activities like sandboarding rentals or camel rides will have separate fees.
The dunes are accessible at all times as a natural landscape. However, facilities like visitor centers and rental shops have specific operating hours, which can vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
For general access to the dunes, no advance booking is required. If you plan on specific activities like guided tours or special events, it's advisable to check if pre-booking is necessary.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to check the official Tottori Sand Dunes website or inquire at the visitor center upon arrival.
General admission to the Tottori Sand Dunes is free. This includes access to walk, explore, and enjoy the natural scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting long shadows and creating beautiful textures on the sand.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant features. Protect your gear from sand!
The crests of the dunes offer panoramic views. The contrast between the sand and the Sea of Japan is also a popular subject.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the scale of the dunes. Shooting from the top of a dune looking down can also be very effective.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy sandboarding, camel rides, and paragliding. Walking and exploring the vast dunes is also a primary activity.
Yes, children often enjoy playing in the sand. Camel rides and gentle walks are suitable for families.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the dunes, including activities. If you plan on multiple activities, consider half a day.
Yes, there are visitor centers and restrooms located near the main entrance of the Tottori Sand Dunes.
Comfortable, breathable clothing is recommended. Wear closed-toe shoes that can handle sand. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water. The open dunes can get hot, so plan your activities for the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late afternoons. Restrooms and some shaded areas are available, but it's wise to be prepared. The Tottori Sand Museum nearby also offers a unique artistic experience that might appeal to older children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Shooting from the crest of a dune or using a low angle can emphasize the scale and grandeur of the landscape. The contrast between the golden sand and the blue of the Sea of Japan provides a stunning backdrop. Remember to protect your camera gear from sand – a good lens hood and a protective bag are essential.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tottori Sand Dunes
For a more adventurous experience, sandboarding is a popular activity. Rental shops are available near the dunes, offering boards for all skill levels. Imagine gliding down the sandy slopes – it's an exhilarating way to interact with the environment. Another unique way to explore is by camel ride, offering a different perspective and a touch of exoticism to your visit.
Beyond the main dune area, you can also find the Tottori Sand Museum, which showcases incredible sand sculptures created by artists from around the world. The themes change annually, making each visit a potentially new experience. The combination of natural beauty and artistic expression makes the Tottori Sand Dunes a truly remarkable destination.
Family Fun at Kodomo no Kuni
Families can enjoy the novelty of the sand dunes, building sandcastles or simply letting children explore. The camel rides are often a highlight for kids, offering a gentle and memorable interaction with the animals. It's a great opportunity for children to experience a landscape that's quite different from their everyday surroundings.
When visiting with children, remember to prioritize sun protection and hydration. The open nature of the dunes means there's little shade. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea, as facilities might be spread out. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, making it a pleasant outing for the whole family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit