Amidst the French Revolution's turmoil, a young Napoleon, suppressing Paris riots, emerged as a hero. The sand sculpture highlights his glory and profound influence on the French nation.
Nestled at the edge of Tottori’s sweeping sand dunes stands a one-of-a-kind attraction: The Sand Museum ⭐. First introduced with open-air displays in 2006, it evolved into the world’s first permanent indoor sand art museum by 2012. Inside, visitors are greeted by towering, intricate sculptures—all made entirely of sand—crafted by master artists from around the globe. With its ever-changing exhibits and breathtaking craftsmanship, the museum transforms the ephemeral nature of sand into a powerful artistic experience. A quiet marvel amid the desert-like landscape.
Soleil II: A Magical Dance of Light and Sand (YouTube link)
Echoes of France: A Sand Sculpture Journey (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
In December 2024, we spent two memorable days at the Tottori Sand Museum, where awe-inspiring sand sculptures crafted by artists from around the globe took center stage. Each year, the exhibition embraces a new cultural theme—in the past, it’s brought to life the essence of places like the UK, Italy, and Central Europe. That winter, the spotlight was on France, captured in intricate, fleeting detail entirely out of sand.
Parisian Views: The Seine River showcases the domed courthouse and Conciergerie on its Left Bank, with the Musée d'Orsay on the Right. The Pont des Changes is in the foreground.
The Genesis of France: Clovis, King of the Franks
The Hundred Years' War, a conflict over succession and territory between France and England, lasted from 1339 to 1453
Joan of Arc, a 16-year-old village girl, received a divine oracle near the end of the Hundred Years' War and advised King Charles VII of France, leading his nation to victory
Louis XIV, the "Sun King," brought French Absolutism to its peak during his 72-year reign
French Revolution
The Bacchus Fountain, one of Versailles' 1,400 garden fountains, features the Roman wine god Bacchus amidst curving Rococo reliefs.
Published in 1862, Victor Hugo's novel "Les Misérables" centers on Jean Valjean, a former prisoner. Initially resentful of society, he is transformed by unconditional love and leads an eventful life dedicated to helping others. The work delicately depicts the lives and expressions of people navigating the unsettled social conditions, including revolution and war, of the early 19th century.
Coronation of Napoleon
Sand Sculptors: David Ducharme (Canada) & Susanne Ruseler (Netherlands) for "Coronation of Napoleon"
The Belle Époque: Europe's "Beautiful Era" (1871-1914)
Sand Sculptor: Sue McGrew (USA) for "Belle Époque"
France: a Sightseeing Paradise
Sand Sculptor: Benoit Dutherage (France) for "France: a Sightseeing Paradise"
"The Hunchback of Notre Dame," is a novel published by Victor Hugo in 1983. The year is 1482. Quasimodo, a bell-ringer at Notre Dame Cathedral, is looked at strangely because of his spine. When he meets Esmeralda, a beautiful gypsy dancer, he falls in love with her and learns of human kindness for the first time. However, because she became intimate with the handsome captain of the Royal Guards, she was falsely accused and put on trial for witchcraft. Quasimodo hides Esmeralda in the bell tower of the cathedral, but in spite of her resistance, she is executed and the story comes to a sad end.
French Fashion: Simple shapes symbolize France's cutting-edge fashion culture,
Autumn Splendor at Onsenji Temple 温泉寺(YouTube link)
Tottori Prefecture, nestled on the Sea of Japan coast, holds the distinction of being Japan's least populated prefecture. However, what it lacks in crowds, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and off-the-beaten-path charm.
Tottori offers a unique blend of mountains, coastline, and charming towns, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Japanese experience.
Tottori Sand Dunes: The crown jewel of Tottori is the vast Tottori Sand Dunes, stretching for over 16 kilometers along the coast. These impressive dunes, reaching heights of up to 50 meters, are a haven for sandboarding, camel rides, and exploring the unique desert-like landscape.
Mt. Mitoku: It is located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, is a sacred mountain revered for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It's home to several temples and shrines, including the famous Sanbutsu-ji Temple, which houses important Buddhist artifacts.
The mountain offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also enjoy hot spring baths and local cuisine, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
Mount Daisen: A dormant volcano, Mount Daisen is a majestic peak offering stunning vistas, hiking trails, and a chance to soak in natural beauty. You can find charming villages, hidden waterfalls, and serene hot springs nestled around the mountain.
Uradome Coast: This scenic coastline boasts dramatic rock formations, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour to admire the unique rock formations and spot marine life.
【Tottori/鳥取】MISASA Hot Springs〔三朝温泉〕(YouTube link)
Cultural Delights:
Traditional Crafts: Tottori is a treasure trove of traditional crafts. Witness the creation of beautiful woodblock prints, delicate lacquerware, and exquisite ceramics.
Sand Museum: A unique highlight of Tottori is the annual Sand Museum (online ticket booking; time: 1 hr), showcasing intricate sculptures made entirely of sand. The artistry and detail of these sculptures are truly awe-inspiring.
Shrine and Temple Visits: Explore the numerous shrines and temples scattered throughout Tottori, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Visit a serene sanctuary: Shitori Shrine or the renowned historical Sanbutsu-ji Temple.
Misasa Onsen: Misasa Onsen, renowned for its high radon content, is a popular health resort. Soak in the therapeutic waters, especially at the riverside rotenburo. The charming town offers scenic bridges, historic temples, and the soothing sounds of nature.
Local Flavors:
Tottori is a paradise for seafood lovers. Savor the freshest catch, including crab, sandfish, and delicious sea urchin. Don't miss the local specialty, "Tottori WagyuTottori Wagyu" beef, renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Eastern Tottori's twist on yakisoba? Look for "horu soba," a beloved local dish featuring beef entrails (horumon) served in over 30 eateries. Each shop offers its unique spin, so go on a culinary adventure and discover your favorite combination of sauce, entrails, and noodles!
Tottori may be off the beaten path, but it's precisely this aspect that makes it a gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, Tottori promises an unforgettable Japanese adventure.
Beginning January 2024, camel photo opportunities will be available only on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and during school breaks including spring, summer, autumn, winter, Golden Week, and Silver Week.
