Two friends, the narrator and Natsuki, embark on an 11-hour journey from Tokyo to Tottori on the Sunrise Express, a sleeper train in Japan. The narrator is in a twin room, while Natsuki is in a deluxe room. They enjoy snacks and drinks on the train and marvel at the scenery passing by. Despite some difficulties with the shower and announcements disturbing their sleep, they both have a good experience on the train.
Upon arrival in Tottori, they visit the famous sand dunes, which exceed their expectations in terms of size and beauty. They take a camel ride and enjoy the scenery. The narrator finds the sand dunes impressive and worth visiting, and they both have a great time on the trip. The highlight of the trip for Natsuki is the six-minute shower, while the narrator's favorite memory is the scenery and the experience of waking up in a new place.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The train journey is from Tokyo to Tottori, a prefecture in Japan.
2. The train ride is approximately 11 hours long.
3. The train has various types of rooms, including twin rooms and deluxe rooms.
4. The deluxe room is more expensive, costing around 140 dollars.
5. The twin room costs around 80-90 dollars.
6. The train has showers and toilets.
7. The shower time is limited to 6 minutes.
8. The train has a communal area with free beds for passengers with a Japan Rail Pass.
9. The train ride offers a scenic view of the Japanese countryside.
10. The train stops at Yonago Station in Tottori.
11. The Tottori sand dunes are a natural wonder, taking thousands of years to form.
12. The sand dunes are 50 meters high and stretch 16 kilometers along the coastline.
13. The sand dunes are shrinking due to tsunami sea walls affecting the sea currents.
14. Natsuki rode a camel on the sand dunes.
15. The Japan Rail Cafe in Tokyo Station offers local dishes and travel advice.