Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route 立山黑部, often referred to as the “Roof of Japan,” is one of the most spectacular mountain routes in the country. Spanning the Northern Japan Alps, this 90-kilometer (56-mile) route connects Toyama City in Toyama Prefecture with Omachi Town in Nagano Prefecture.
In 2025, Tateyama Kurobe will reopen on April 15.
The route is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including snow walls, pristine lakes, and panoramic mountain views. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.
Tateyama Alpine Route & Hida Takayama 2 day tour (English Guide) (From Nagoya)
Japan Tateyama Kurobe Alps one-day tour (English Guide) (From Nagano)
What you need to travel to Tateyama Kurobe
Hotels & Flight Tickets
Hotels in Nagano:
Trip.com | Expedia
Discounted Air Tickets:
Trip.com | Expedia
Transportation to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
From Nagoya
By Train (Fastest and Most Convenient)
Total Travel Time: ~6.5 hours
Total Cost: ~¥17,530 (round trip)
Nagoya Station to Toyama Station: Take the Hida Limited Express.
Travel Time: ~4 hours.
Cost: ¥6,500 (reserved seat, one way).
How to Board: Purchase tickets at Nagoya Station or online. Board the train from the JR platforms.
Toyama Station to Tateyama Station: Take the Toyama Chiho Railway Tateyama Line.
Travel Time: ~1 hour.
Cost: ¥1,230 (one way).
How to Board: Transfer at Toyama Station. Follow signs to the Toyama Chiho Railway platforms.
Tateyama Station to Murodo (Start of Alpine Route): Take the Tateyama Cable Car, Tateyama Ropeway, and Tateyama Highland Bus.
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours.
Cost: ¥9,800 (one way, includes all Alpine Route transportation).
How to Board: Purchase the Alpine Route ticket at Tateyama Station. Follow signs to the cable car.
By Bus (Economical Option)
Total Travel Time: ~6.5 hours
Total Cost: ~¥15,300 (round trip)
Nagoya Station to Tateyama Station: Take the Meitetsu Bus.
Travel Time: ~5 hours.
Cost: ¥5,500 (one way).
How to Board: Purchase tickets at Nagoya Station or online. Board the bus at the designated platform.
Tateyama Station to Murodo (Start of Alpine Route): Take the Tateyama Cable Car, Tateyama Ropeway, and Tateyama Highland Bus.
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours.
Cost: ¥9,800 (one way, includes all Alpine Route transportation).
How to Board: Purchase the Alpine Route ticket at Tateyama Station. Follow signs to the cable car.
From Tokyo
By Train (Fastest and Most Convenient)
Total Travel Time: ~4.5 hours
Total Cost: ~¥23,750 (round trip)
Tokyo Station to Toyama Station: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen (Kagayaki or Hakutaka).
Travel Time: ~2 hours.
Cost: ¥12,720 (reserved seat, one way).
How to Board: Purchase tickets at Tokyo Station or online. Board the Shinkansen from the JR platforms.
Toyama Station to Tateyama Station: Take the Toyama Chiho Railway Tateyama Line.
Travel Time: ~1 hour.
Cost: ¥1,230 (one way).
How to Board: Transfer at Toyama Station. Follow signs to the Toyama Chiho Railway platforms.
Tateyama Station to Murodo (Start of Alpine Route):
Transport: Take the Tateyama Cable Car, Tateyama Ropeway, and Tateyama Highland Bus.
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours.
Cost: ¥9,800 (one way, includes all Alpine Route transportation).
How to Board: Purchase the Alpine Route ticket at Tateyama Station. Follow signs to the cable car.
By Bus (Economical Option)
Total Travel Time: ~6 hours
Total Cost: ~¥17,300 (round trip)
Shinjuku Bus Terminal to Tateyama Station: Take the Alpico Highway Bus.
Travel Time: ~4.5 hours.
Cost: ¥7,500 (one way).
How to Board: Purchase tickets at the Shinjuku Bus Terminal or online. Board the bus at the designated platform.
Tateyama Station to Murodo (Start of Alpine Route): Take the Tateyama Cable Car, Tateyama Ropeway, and Tateyama Highland Bus.
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours.
Cost: ¥9,800 (one way, includes all Alpine Route transportation).
How to Board: Purchase the Alpine Route ticket at Tateyama Station. Follow signs to the cable car.
Best Season to Visit Tateyama Kurobe
Spring (Mid-April to June)
The most famous Snow Walls only appear at the beginning of spring. It is highly recommended to visit during this period.
Highlight: The Snow Walls (Yuki-no-Otani) are at their peak in mid-April to May.
Weather: Cool temperatures with snow still covering much of the route.
Activities: Walking through the snow corridor, enjoying the contrast of snow and spring blooms.
Other Seasons
Summer (July to September)
Highlight: Lush greenery, blooming alpine flowers, and clear skies.
Weather: Mild to warm temperatures are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Activities: Hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the vibrant landscapes.
Autumn (October to Early November)
Highlight: Stunning autumn foliage, especially around Mikurigaike Pond and Kurobe Dam.
Weather: Cool and crisp, perfect for photography and leisurely walks.
Activities: Viewing fall colors, hiking, and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Winter (Late November to March)
Due to the chance of heavy snow, the park will not be open for long in the winter.
In 2025, Tateyama Kurobe will reopen on April 15.
Snow Walls (Yuki-no-Otani) 雪の大谷
The Snow Walls of Tateyama Kurobe, also known as Yuki-no-Otani, are one of the most iconic and breathtaking attractions along the Alpine Route. These massive walls of snow, which can reach heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet), are created by the heavy snowfall in the region during winter. The snow is cleared in spring to reopen the route, leaving behind towering corridors of snow that visitors can walk through.
The snow walls are located near Murodo Station, the highest point of the route at 2,450 meters (8,038 feet). Walking through the snow corridor is a surreal experience, as the walls rise dramatically on either side, creating a sense of awe and wonder. The best time to visit the snow walls is from mid-April to May, when the snow is at its peak and the weather is cool but pleasant.
The snow walls are not just a natural wonder but also a testament to the region’s harsh winters and the efforts of local workers to clear the snow and make the route accessible. The area around the snow walls is also a popular spot for photography, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Kurobe Dam 黒部ダム
Kurobe Dam, Japan’s tallest dam at 186 meters (610 feet), is a marvel of engineering and a highlight of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. The dam was completed in 1963 after seven years of construction, and it plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation for the region.
The dam is located in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Northern Japan Alps. The turquoise waters of Kurobe Lake, created by the dam, contrast beautifully with the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photography. Walk across the top of the dam, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
One of the most exciting features of Kurobe Dam is the dam discharge, which occurs from late June to mid-October. During this time, water is released from the dam at a rate of 10–15 tons per second, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring spectacle. The discharge is accompanied by a rainbow on sunny days, adding to the visual appeal.
Mikurigaike Pond みくりが池
Mikurigaike Pond is a stunning crater lake located near Murodo Station. The pond is known for its emerald-green waters, which reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks and create a picturesque and serene setting.
The pond is particularly beautiful in autumn, when the foliage of the surrounding trees turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning contrast with the blue-green waters. The area around the pond is also home to a variety of alpine plants and flowers, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
According to local legend, Mikurigaike Pond is a sacred place where the gods descend to bathe. The pond’s tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.
Murodo Plateau 室堂高原
The Murodo Plateau is the highest point of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, located at an elevation of 2,450 meters (8,038 feet). The plateau offers panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps, including peaks like Mount Tateyama and Mount Tsurugi.
The plateau is a popular starting point for hiking trails, including the Tateyama Caldera Sabulous Volcano Route, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is also home to a variety of alpine plants and wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
In spring, the plateau is covered in snow, creating a winter wonderland that is perfect for snowshoeing and photography. In summer, the snow melts, revealing lush greenery and vibrant alpine flowers. The plateau’s ever-changing landscape and stunning views make it a must-visit destination along the Alpine Route.
Ropeways and Cable Cars
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route features a series of ropeways and cable cars that provide scenic rides through the mountains. These transportation options are not just a means of getting from one point to another but also an integral part of the experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The Tateyama Ropeway, which connects Bijodaira to Murodo, is one of the most scenic rides on the route. The ropeway offers panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps, including Mount Tateyama and Mount Tsurugi. The Kurobe Cable Car, which connects Kurobedaira to Kurobe Dam, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of Kurobe Lake and the surrounding mountains.
These ropeways and cable cars are a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the region, allowing travelers to experience the beauty of the mountains in a unique and unforgettable way.
Tateyama Alpine Route & Hida Takayama 2 day tour (English Guide) (From Nagoya)
Japan Tateyama Kurobe Alps one-day tour (English Guide) (From Nagano)
Discover more from GPSeeker Travel
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
