Sand Dunes is a place where you can experience the exotic atmosphere of Japan, with endless sand mountains and endless blue ocean, as well as the magnificent scenery created by nature.
When it comes to sand dunes in Japan, the first thing that comes to mind may be Tottori Sand Dunes. However, did you know that Shizuoka Prefecture, not far from the Kanto region, also has sand dunes?
Nakatajima Sand Dunes (中田島砂丘) is located in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, on the verge of Enshu Beach. A day trip from the Kanto area and the Tokai area is recommended!
What are Nakatajima Sand Dunes (中田島砂丘)?
The Nakatajima Sand Dunes in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture, and the Susumushi Coast in Kagoshima Prefecture are collectively known as the Three Great Sand Dunes of Japan.
The Nakatajima Sand Dunes are approximately a 15-minute drive from Hamamatsu City. They extend about 4 kilometers from east to west and about 6 kilometers from north to south. The land area is preserved as the Enshu Beach Seaside Park, and the Nakatajima Sand Dunes are located in one corner of the park.
Although it's a seaside park, admission to the Nakatajima Sand Dunes is free! There is also a parking lot available, making it a recommended destination for a self-driving trip.
Nakatajima Sand Dunes are also famous as a filming location for various music videos and advertisements.
Unlike the Tottori Sand Dunes, Nakatajima Sand Dunes are not as far away, and if you live in the Greater Tokyo Area, you can enjoy the beautiful sand dunes over a weekend.
This place is also known as a filming location for the movie "Seishu Meeting" and for music videos of famous artists such as Mr. Children, BUMP OF CHICKEN, ONE OK ROCK, and more Japanese artists.
The Relaxed Atmosphere Is Also Very Popular Among the Locals!
Climbing the smooth sand hills, you can see the azure sea of Enshu Beach, and locals love to exercise and take walks there.
Compared to the Tottori Sand Dunes, there are fewer tourists here, and you won't find the camels commonly seen in sand dunes. The charm of Nakatajima Sand Dunes lies in the opportunity to relax and immerse oneself in nature.
After passing the stone monument at Nakatajima Sand Dunes, ascending the stairs, the first thing that comes into view is the sand dunes and the expansive blue sky on either side! Because it's a small hill, you can't see the ocean yet, making the climb up the sand dunes quite interesting.
Climbing the sandhill can be challenging, as it puts more strain on your legs and lower back than you might imagine. Preparing comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, is advisable in advance. High heels or sandals are not recommended as they can get covered in sand.
"Enshu's Dry Wind" Creating Wind Patterns
When you step into Nakatajima Sand Dunes, you immediately notice how strong the wind is. As you make your way up the hill, the wind blows fiercely, and the sound of the wind is so loud that it's hard to hear someone speaking.
This strong wind is known as "Enshu Karakaze (遠州のからっ風)," a seasonal northwest wind that is particularly intense in the winter. The sand patterns created by the Enshu Karakaze are called "wind patterns."
"Wind patterns" are overlapping, gentle curves that appear on the surface of the sand dunes on windy days.
They disappear when a person walks on them, but you can see wind patterns across a significant area of Nakatajima Sand Dunes. If you go out early in the morning, you can witness the spectacular sight of wind patterns spreading across the desolate sand dunes.
This Is Also A Nesting Site For Sea Turtles
The Nakatajima Sand Dunes are also renowned as a nesting site for sea turtles.
Every year in June and July, loggerhead sea turtles come to lay their eggs, typically laying about 150 eggs at a time, before returning to the sea. At Nakatajima Sand Dunes, there are activities that involve fencing off sea turtle nests and later releasing the hatchlings into the sea.
The "Sea Turtle Observation Society" is primarily managed by staff from an NPO that has obtained permission from Shizuoka Prefecture.
As visitors and researchers walk along the beach together, they search for the landing spots of sea turtles. If sea turtle eggs are found, everyone makes an effort to protect them. You can make reservations to participate in this free observation program.
- Sea Turtle Observation Center (Sanctuary Nature Center) Information
- Address: 1672-3 Nakatajimacho, Minami Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-0845 Google Map
- Participation Date: June 25, July 2, July 9, and July 23, 2023
- Starting Time: 5:30
- Price: free
- Official Website: https://www.sanctuarynpo.jp/facility/
What Time of Day is Recommended for Visiting?
If you want to see the beautiful wind patterns, it's best to go early in the morning, but going in the evening is also highly recommended.
As the sun sets in the west, it paints the wide sand dunes and the sea in a brilliant red color, creating a spectacular sight! Sitting at the top of the hill or by the water to watch the sunset will give you a unique and exotic feeling that contrasts with Japan's usual ambiance.
Enshu Beach Seaside Park Offers Many Other Attractions!
Windmill Park (風車公園)
Adjacent to the Nakatajima Sand Dunes is the Windmill Park. As the name suggests, there is a large windmill here, which serves as the symbol of the entire park, surrounded by lush greenery and a gathering of wild birds.
Children are often excited because the shape of the windmill closely resembles the windmills seen in Thomas the Tank Engine! There are also playground facilities next to the windmill for you to enjoy.
During holidays, it's common to see people having picnics on the vast grassy areas, making it a delightful lunch spot for sure!
- Windmill Park (風車公園) Information
- Address: 1674 Nakatajimacho, Minami Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-0845 Google Map
- Official Website: https://www.hama-park.or.jp/f-kanri/f-ennsyuu/ennsyuu-kahinn.htm
Sekijin no hoshi Park (石人の星公園)
After passing through Nakatajima Sand Dunes and Windmill Park and continuing north, you can reach the Sekijin no hoshi Park. The name of this unique park comes from the many stone sculptures displayed within the park.
The sculpture area has an open-air museum atmosphere, but other sections of the park have walking trails, large amusement facilities, and a bicycle square, making it a place where even children can have a great time.
In addition, on the west side of the sand dunes, there are fee-based sports fields, a large kite-flying field park, beach volleyball courts, and more.
- Sekijin no hoshi Park (石人の星公園) Information
- Address: 1706 Nakatajimacho, Minami Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-0844 Google Map
- Official Website: http://www.enshunada.com/
An Excellent Choice for a Weekend Getaway! Head to the Sand Dunes in Shizuoka
This time, we introduce the beloved sand dunes of Shizuoka Prefecture, Nakatajima Sand Dunes, which are highly cherished by locals. You can enjoy the exotic charm of Nakatajima Sand Dunes.
Why not go on a trip and admire the magnificent scenery created by nature? Spending a relaxing day at Nakatajima Sand Dunes is the perfect choice for a weekend road trip.
- Nakatajima Sand Dunes (中田島砂丘) Information
- Address: 1313 Nakatajimacho, Minami Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-0845 Google Map
- Official Website: https://hellonavi.jp/detail/page/detail/1139
