The sculpture was created in 1633 to welcome the feudal lord of the Marugame Domain.
It is constructed using sand, but the internal slopes are reinforced to prevent erosion from ocean winds and tides.
The Kanji characters inscribed in the sand read 'Kanei Tsuho', the name of the currency issued in 1636.
The central 'hole' of the coin is a grassy area that creates a distinct contrast against the surrounding sand mounds.
The sand sculpture is designated as a national place of scenic beauty in Japan.
Zenigata Sunae is a massive sand sculpture located on Ariake Beach in Kan'onji, Kagawa Prefecture. The artwork depicts a Kanei Tsuho coin, which was a circulating currency during the Edo period. It measures 122 meters from east to west and 90 meters from north to south, with a circumference of 345 meters. The sculpture is maintained by local volunteers and city officials who reshape the sand mounds to keep the design crisp. Visitors typically view the coin from the Kotohiki Park observation deck, as the scale is only fully perceptible from an elevated vantage point. The coin is famous for the local belief that those who view it will live a long life and never struggle with money. The design is illuminated at night during specific seasons, enhancing its visibility against the dark beach backdrop. The surrounding area is part of Kotohiki Park, which is noted for its cherry blossoms and pine groves.
The designated Kotohiki Park observation deck balcony.
Use the observation deck at the summit of Kotohiki Park for the best overhead perspective.
Bring binoculars if you wish to see the texture of the sand mounds clearly from the park viewpoint.
Visit during dusk to see the transition from daylight to the evening illumination.
Do not attempt to walk directly onto the sand sculpture itself, as it is a protected site and sensitive to foot traffic.
The sand painting is permanently accessible, though maintenance work may occur occasionally to reshape the banks.
