April of 2012 was the grand opening of the world’s first indoor exhibition of sculpture made entirely of sand at the Sand Museum. Since then exhibits have been held with a different theme every year from around April through to January of the following year. With selected sculptors and designers from within Japan and overseas invited by the world’s 100 most respected Japanese, and Katsuhiko Chaen currently acting as general producer, a host of artists appear every year to showcase their craft at this world-class event. As the sculptures are prone to degrade over time, the carefully-carved designs are a viewing experience unique to the Sand Dunes, with their transience as part of their charm. The glass-sided building and plaza provide an excellent view of the dunes, and which illuminate after sunset creating another visual delight.
