Reviews,Local food,Transportation Information,and Map Information of Tottori Dunes

Natural scenery

1.Basic Information

Tottori Prefecture is rich in stunning natural landscapes and historical shrines and castle ruins. The Tottori Dunes, which have taken hundreds of thousands of years to form, offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience to tourists.

Tottori Dunes (Tottori Sakyu)

The sand at Tottori Dunes originates from weathered granite. It was carried to the Sea of Japan by local rivers and eventually blown inland by strong winds. The landscape of the dunes is extremely varied, featuring unique patterns and depressions known as “suribachi.” Some areas even have natural springs forming oases.

Panorama of Tottori Sand Dunes
Oasis of Tottori Sand Dunes


Mt. Daisen

Representing western Japan, Mt. Daisen has an elevation of 1,729m and offers different scenic views depending on the angle. When viewed from the west, it’s called “Houkifuji,” showcasing a feminine beauty. On the other hand, views from the north and south reveal rugged ridges that exude a masculine strength.

Panorama of Mount Daisen
Sunrise over Mount Daisen


Tottori Castle

Built in the 16th century, Tottori Castle is famous for the lengthy siege it endured under Hashiba Hideyoshi. It also features unique structures such as spherical stone walls that are rare to find elsewhere.

Tottori Castle


2.Reviews

Hakuto Shrine (Hakuto Jinja)

Hakuto Shrine is known as the “sanctuary for lovers” due to a legend where a white rabbit supported the love affairs of local deities. The shrine precincts feature cute stone statues of white rabbits, and charms sold there also use the white rabbit as a motif.

Shirahige Shrine


Camels at Tottori Dunes

You can take a commemorative photo with a camel at the Tottori Dunes. The experience feels as if you’re traveling through a desert. Until April 2023, camel rides were also available.

Camels of Tottori Sand Dunes


3.Local Food

Introduction to Western Japan’s  Ramen: Part 1
In Western Japan, there are several nationally famous types of ramen. Among them, Onomichi Ramen from Hiroshima Prefecture and Wakayama Ramen from Wakayama Prefecture are particularly well-known. Recently, Toyama Black Ramen, characterized by its black soup, has also gained popularity. Each of these ramen types has its unique flavor, symbolizing the diversity of Japanese ramen culture.
Introduction to hot pot dishes using seafood from all over Japan
Japan boasts a wealth of fresh seafood and mountain produce, with each region having its own signature hot pot dishes made from these ingredients. Hokkaido is renowned for its seafood hot pots, while Miyagi and Hiroshima prefectures are famous for their oyster hot pots. These are specialty regional dishes that highlight the unique features of each area.
Introduction to Tempura
Tempura is a traditional Japanese dish cooked by dipping ingredients like shrimp, fish, meat, and various vegetables in wheat flour and chicken eggs, then frying them in oil.


4.Transportation Information

■ How to get to Tottori Dunes
Tottori Tourism Convention Association Official Website (Multilingual Support)
https://www.torican.jp/

■ How to get to Mt. Daisen
Mt. Daisen Tourism Bureau Official Website (English Support)
https://tourismdaisen.com/about_daisen/access/

Chizu Express
Tottori Station


5.Map Information

Tottori City is located around the Tottori Plains, adjacent to the Sea of Japan. The Tottori Dunes are along the coastline, and the entire region is a heavy snowfall area. The highest recorded snowfall was 129 cm in 1947.

Map of Tottori Prefecture