Tottori Sand Dunes, Natural monument in Tottori, Japan
Tottori Sand Dunes is a natural monument on the coast of Tottori Prefecture, stretching several kilometers along the Sea of Japan. Hills of sand rise in waves with patterns that shift daily as the wind reshapes the surface.
The landscape formed from sediments carried by the Sendai River and deposited along the coast by ocean currents over thousands of years. In the 20th century, the area was officially protected to preserve this rare formation.
The Tottori Sand Museum, established in 2006, presents annual exhibitions of intricate sand sculptures that showcase different international themes and artistic techniques.
Buses run regularly from Tottori Station to the entrance, where visitors can rent equipment for sand sports. Climbing to the higher points requires some effort through loose sand, so closed shoes help.
From certain hills, visitors can watch lights from squid fishing boats at night, creating a soft glow across the water. The museum at the edge of the sands displays new sand sculptures from around the world each year.
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