Sandboarding in Japan: Tottori Sand Dunes & More

Last Updated on June 3, 2023

Sandboarding is widely practiced in the Tottori prefecture of Japan. The largest sand dune system in the country, the Tottori Sand Dunes, is where all the sandboarding fun is at.

There have also been a few successful attempts at volcano boarding the iconic Mt. Fuji, although no established facility is present and the legality of sandboarding at the sacred mountain is disputed.

Tottori Sand Dunes – Tottori

The Tottori Sand Dunes National Park (Tottori Sakyu in Japanese) is home to a 2 km long stretch of coastal sand dunes resembling those of a desert.

Between the 15th of April and the 30th of November, you can go sandboarding at Tottori Sand Dunes. If you are going alone, you will need to make a reservation by calling 0857-23-1749 (in Japanese), otherwise it’s easier to join a tour or sandboard class.

The slopes are always covered in snow or ice during winter, sandboarding and sledding are not permitted, but you are always welcome to visit.

While you are there, make sure to check out the incredible sand sculptures at Tottori Sand Museum.

Sandboard rental

You can book a sandboarding lesson in English with the Tottori Sakyu Sand Board School. For ¥3,500 you will get 2 hours with an instructor and all the equipment you need, including a sandboard or sand sled (for sitting – up to two people and ideal for children).

Mind that the class will only take you to some of the smaller slopes, while you will need to bring your own board if you are planning to go sliding down the taller dunes.

Read more: Sandboarding at Tottori Sand Dunes

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 Nakatajima Sand Dunes – Hamamatsu

The Nakatajima Sand Dunes are situated on the Pacific Ocean coast of Japan in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture. The sand dune field spans 0.6 kilometers north to south and 4.0 kilometers east to west.

Although the dunes themselves are not particularly tall, they are still a great spot for sandboarding and other activities such as picnicking, kite flying, and beachcombing. The white sand and stunning views of the ocean make the Nakatajima Sand Dunes a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Nakatajima Sand Dunes are also home to a number of cultural and historical sites. For example, the dunes are home to a number of shrines and temples, as well as the Hamamatsu Festival, which is held annually in August. This festival is a major event in the region and attracts visitors from all over Japan.

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Sandboarding on Mt. Fuji

The iconic Mount Fuji has not erupted since 1707 – but it is still an active volcano. While there is no “official” way to sandboard on Mt. Fuji, there is plenty of video evidence of people successfully sliding down its slopes in the early 2000s, and many people head there for snowboarding during the winter season.

There are a few other locations in the world where you can sandboard on active volcanos (a.k.a. volcano boarding).

Video: Volcano boarding on Mt. Fuji

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Sandboarding in Asia