Tateyama-Kurobe alpine route
If you are interested in having a different perspective of Japan, we highly encourage to plan a trip to the Japanese alps.
Tateyama-Kurobe alpine route
We embarked on the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route after discovering an incredibly detailed itinerary in the Ultimate Guide from the Nerd Nomads blog. Their step-by-step advice made our day trip smooth and enjoyable, so we highly recommend checking it out before planning your visit.
Unfortunately, we traveled during Japan's busiest season—the Golden Week—which made navigating the 90km route a bit more challenging. Crowded buses, trolleys, cable cars, and ropeways slowed us down, but the breathtaking scenery more than made up for it.
One of the most awe-inspiring stops is the Kurobe Dam, Japan’s tallest and an engineering marvel from the post-World War II era. Walking along the dam, with the vast reservoir on one side and towering mountains on the other, was truly unforgettable. The route gives you unique access to the dam, culminating at the Kurobe Dam rest-house, where the views are nothing short of spectacular.
Kurobe Dam from the rest-house at 1508m
Cement bucket used during the construction
We were surprised by the amount of snow still lingering at the end of April, and quickly realized we weren’t prepared for the wintry conditions. While we soaked up the sun at the dam, we noticed many others equipped with skis, boots, and winter gear—now we know why! If you’re planning a visit, be sure to dress in layers and prepare for snowy hikes, especially around the stunning Murodo mountain range.
Murodo Mountain Range
Tateyama Hotel, Toyama
Views from the Tateyama Hotel
The Alpine Route is open from April 15th to November 30th, though the exact dates can vary depending on weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the official website for updates and buy your tickets online to avoid the queues.
Cable Car Kurobedaira
18m ice/snow wall
On a side note, food is an essential part of any trip for us, and we were glad we packed our own snacks before setting off. While Bento boxes are available along the route, they are limited—especially during peak times.
After a full day of exploring (nine hours in total), we finally arrived at Tateyama Station, where we collected our luggage at Dentetsu Toyama Station before heading to our next destination: Kanazawa. The Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route is truly an unforgettable journey, and we can’t recommend it enough—just be sure to prepare for the elements and plan ahead to make the most of your adventure.
