Amber Light Cascades Across the Clouds and Rolling Sand Hills
Tottori Prefecture's Tottori Sand Dunes (鳥取砂丘⭐⭐), stretching 16 kilometers along the Sea of Japan, are Japan's largest. Formed over 100,000 years by river sediment and ocean winds, these 30-square-kilometer "sculpture gardens" attract 1.2 to 2 million visitors annually. Easily accessible by bus (20-25 mins, ~380 yen) or taxi (~3,000 yen) from Tottori Station, they offer an otherworldly natural experience.
Where Sands Meet Sunset: The Magic of Tottori Dunes #japan #travel (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
In December 2024, we embarked on a short but unforgettable journey to the Tottori Sand Dunes. Over the course of two days, the skies remained cloaked in clouds, with light rain falling steadily—nature’s quiet reminder that beauty isn’t always served under sunshine. But on the second day, just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, the rain lifted. In that fleeting moment between drizzle and dusk, the dunes revealed their magic.
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,
Japanese garden—a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty (国指定の名勝)
While Tottori is famed for its sweeping sand dunes, Kannon-in (観音院) ⭐offers a tranquil retreat steeped in beauty and history. This Edo-period temple, built by the Ikeda family, is one of Tottori’s eight prayer sites and is home to a breathtaking Japanese garden—a designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty (国指定の名勝).
From the temple veranda, visitors can admire the harmonious landscape of a large pond, carefully arranged rocks, elegant trees, and symbolic crane and turtle islands. In autumn, maple trees paint the scene with vibrant hues, enhancing the serene atmosphere. To complete the experience, traditional matcha tea and sweets—included in admission—provide a moment of quiet indulgence.
For those who appreciate artistry in nature, historical depth, and a peaceful escape, Kannon-in is an exceptional destination worth exploring.
On December 9, 2024, despite the rain, my visit to Kannon-in was unforgettable. I spent an hour exploring its garden and interconnected veranda. Moving at a leisurely pace, I took my time, fully relaxing and immersing myself in the temple's serene beauty. The photos below capture the highlights of my journey on that remarkable day.
Kinosaki Onsen Canal: A Serene Waterway Framed by Willow Trees and Tradition
Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway: From Town to Temple and Panoramic Heights (YouTube link)
The Onsen Pilgrimage (Sotoyu Meguri, or "Wander the Hot Spring Trail") is a unique Japanese cultural experience. It offers numerous health benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, improved circulation, and pain relief. It is also a wonderful way to connect with nature and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
Kinosaki Onsen ⭐⭐is a charming traditional onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its Onsen Pilgrimage. This unique experience involves visiting seven public bathhouses, each with its distinct architectural style and ambiance. Visitors can rent a yukata (traditional Japanese robe) and geta (wooden sandals) and wander through the town, immersing themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. Each bathhouse provides a different bathing experience, from open-air baths surrounded by nature to indoor baths with soothing mineral waters. Kinosaki Onsen is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a taste of traditional Japanese culture.
Kinosaki Marine World: Marine Life and Coastal Views (YouTube link)
The Ultimate First Choice: Relax in the Largest Hot Spring Pool with Stunning Waterfall Views
Public baths in Japan offer a unique and traditional bathing experience. They are segregated by gender, and swimsuits are not worn, adhering to long-standing customs (read more on bathing rules). In hot spring resort towns, some sento use natural hot spring water, providing a rejuvenating soak rich in minerals. However, most public baths simply use heated tap water, maintaining the communal and relaxing atmosphere that has been cherished for generations.
Beautiful foot baths (ashiyu) and drinking fountains are scattered throughout the town.
The best way to explore the area is by donning a yukata (light kimono) and strolling leisurely among the many traditional ryokan. When visiting the public baths, it is recommended to bring your own towel or use one provided by your accommodation, although towels can also be purchased or rented at the bathhouse. Soap and shampoo are available in the baths.
In essence, Kinosaki Onsen offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese bathing culture. With its seven distinct public baths and charming atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.
海中苑 本店: Indulge in the Freshest Seafood Sashimi Delights
Savor the Season: Indulge in Fresh Matsuba and Seko-Gani Crabs at Kinosaki Onsen
Savor Steaming Hot Buns Filled with Yoka Pork, Tajima Beef, and Kinosaki Crab at Chaya Cafe
