Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Here’s a detailed Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route itinerary and travel guide blog with budget breakdown. Enjoy the spectacular Japan Alpine Alps in the Chubu region.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route or Tateyama Kurobe Alpen Route (Arupen Ruto, 立山黒部アルペンルート) is a popular day trip travel in Chubu region. It is renowned for its incredibly stunning mountain sightseeing route through the Northern Japan Alps. This unique and spectacular route is a MUST VISIT in the Chubu region.

Completed in 1971, this 90 km route is commonly referred to as the “Roof of Japan”. It connects Toyama City in Toyama Prefecture and Omachi Town in Nagano Prefecture with various means of transportation. The total use of transportation involved up to nine types for a full route. However, don’t be worry too much on the transportation arrangement. It is relatively straightforward and well connected throughout the journey.

We visited Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during the end of October. Our initial plan was up to mesmerize the stunning autumn colors leaves for fall foliage. But we were so lucky and welcome by the new snow in Murodo. Such an incredible and unique activities to see both autumn and winter scenery in one day.

Here, we will showcase what you can do on your trip to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route from Toyama and ending up in Matsumoto. This is our actual itinerary and we did along the journey. I hope this will greatly help with your Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route itinerary planning.

While this is a Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Travel Guide Blog, feel free to read on each season’s highlight on below travel blog:

Best Time To Visit

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is famous for its magnificent mountainous scenery. It is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and passes through the dynamic scenery of Mt. Tateyama in the Japan Alps. Visitors can enjoy the majestic view during different seasons of the year when it is open. Each season the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route shows off its unique characters and spectacular views of the scenic beauty.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during Winter (December to early April)
Please take note the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route will be completely close and inaccessible during winter. The opening dates for the Alpine Route Tateyama Kurobe is normally mid of April. Please refer to the official website. (https://www.alpen-route.com/)

In 2024, the opening date of Tateyama Kurobe Alpine is from 15th April until 30th November 2024.

Spring – Summer – Autumn

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during Spring (April, May, June)
The whole mountain range of Alpine route is covered in snow. One of the best things to do in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during Spring is walk through the majestic snow corridor. This is an impressive snow wall on Murodo when it opens in mid-April. The pedestrian walk is open and started to melted until completely gone in July.

Beautiful alpine flower started to bloom around June with the lush green mountain range. You will still possible to see the snow wall and play around with snow if you’re visiting Alpine route during this time.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during Summer (July, August)
Summer attracts visitors with its beautiful landscape. It is the best season for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. The temperatures are pleasantly comfortable during this time. There are plenty of easy trails around the Mikurigaike pond at Murodo. You can even go for a challenging hike and climb the summit of Mount Tateyama.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during Autumn (September, October, November)
The Tateyama Route is the best place for the season’s foliage in the Chubu region. Started from September, leaves slowly turn its color from green to yellow and red, start at the highest elevation. It takes about six to seven weeks to change the mountain slope into stunning colors. The peak season for fall foliage is during late September at around Murodo and Daikanbo.

During November, you are possible to view the vibrant colors of autumn foliage in the middle route but white snow-covered mountain when reach at top.

How To Get To Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Depend on where is your departure place. You can choose to start from Nagano/Matsumoto or Toyama. While it’s a one-way route, that means that if you start from one, you’ll end at the other. Round trip is doable but it cost more on transportation. Many foreign visitors choose to spend one day in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route when traveling from Tokyo of the Kanto region to Osaka, Kyoto in the Kansai region. The Alpine Route can be done within one day in quick travel pace.

However, we highly suggest staying overnight near the Alpine Route for more leisure experience. The full route of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine trip required at least 6 hours. You can be easily extended your itinerary to nearby popular destinations such as Kanazawa, Takayama, Toyama, and Matsumoto. The Alpine Route can be done in either direction. Toyama city is your start place if you choose from west to eastbound (Dentetsu Toyama to Shinano Omachi).

From Tokyo to Toyama city, ride the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen for about 2 hours. Your ride is FREE if you have a JR Pass. This pass will be covered for all the JR ride within the validity period. If your Japan trip is covered Tokyo, Kyoto or even Hokkaido, this pass definitely worth the money. This is the best transport pass for foreign visitors when visiting around Japan. You have to ordered and get the exchange order before arrival. Your exchange order can be redeemed to JR Pass at JR Office in Japan. (Detail on prices and information on JR Pass)

However, please take note that this pass does not covered the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. You need to purchase the additional Tateyama Kurobe Option Ticket. Highly recommended to get this option ticket to save yourself the headache.

Money-Saving Transport Pass

Alternatively, we suggest you get the 5 Day JR Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Pass at ¥23,800. This Tourist Pass will give you unlimited ride between Nagoya to Toyama, as well as unlimited use on all transportation within the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route for 5 days. This is a perfect pass if you plan to explore the Chubu region and Alpine Route. The full route transport fee on Alpine route already costs you more than ¥15,000.

However, Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass is only valid for 5 days. We plan to stay longer in Takayama to participant in the Dokubori Matsuri festival. So we look for an alternative solution. The Alpine Route Pass (立山黒部アルペンきっぷ ) is similar to Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass but it has longer duration up to 8 days. There is some limitation of this pass. I will explain on this pass in the next travel post later.

During my Chubu Japan travel, we fully utilized the Alpine Route Pass to visited nearby popular attractions such as Tayama, Nagoya, and Kanazawa. It greatly saves on my transportation fee when traveling around the prefecture. The detail on my Chubu Travel Itinerary here.

Alpine Route Tours

Joining the Alpine Route Tours is another great option if you prefer for hassle-free travel. Many travel agencies are organized the Alpine Route Tour. You can travel conveniently without worry about transportation and ticketing processes. English speaking guides will explain the history and guide you to the best sight along the journey.

If you need more info about the Alpine Route Tour, take a look at the Klook Activities here:

• Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Day Tour from Nagano
• 2D1N Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and Snow Wall Tour from Tokyo

One Day Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Itinerary

Many locals and visitors will plan on 2 or 3 days itinerary through the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. There are various hiking and sightseeing activities can be done to explore the spectacular vista of Tateyama Mountain Range. But it is relatively straightforward to explore the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine route even within one day.

We did the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route from west to east in 1-day trip. Our Tateyama Kurobe Alpine route itinerary started from Dentetsu Toyama from the early morning. At the end of the day, we rest our heads in Matsumoto. The whole journey took about 9 hours. So please make sure to start early and well plan on the itinerary.

The Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route itinerary:

• Start the Alpine Route from Dentetsu-Toyama To Tateyama Station (60 minutes).
• Take the Cable car from Tateyama Station to Bijodaira (7 minutes).
• Tateyama Togen Highland Bus from Bijodaira to Murodo (50 minutes). Optional, take a short Hike at Midagahara Wetland.
• At Murodo Station, take a short stroll to Mikurigaike Pond and wandering around.
• Trolleybus from Murodo to Daikanbo station (10 min).
• Ride the Ropeway from Daikanbo to Kurobedaira (7 min).
• Cable car from Kurobedaira to Kurobe Dam (5 min).
• Wandering around in Kurobe Dam.
• Trolleybus from Kurobe Dam to Ogizawa (16 min).
• Bus from Ogizawa to Shinano-Omachi (40 min).
• Take the train from Shinano-Omachi to Matsumoto.

Sound confusing? Read through the below explanation and you’ll find out it is very easy to plan on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route itinerary.

Start From Dentetsu-Toyama To Tateyama Station

We reached Toyama city and stayed in the Comfort Hotel Toyama one day before our Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route started. It located less than 3 minutes walk to the Dentetsu-Toyama station (next to JR Toyama Station). The strategic location is very ideal as we need to depart from Toyama early. Most importantly, it also help to arrange our luggage bags to our hotel at Matsumoto.

We woke up in the early morning and check-out from the hotel. From Dentetsu-Toyama Station, we ride the Chitetsu Line and get off at Tateyama Station (1 hour). It is the start point of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

At Tateyama station, we exchange the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Pass. This pass will cover my whole transport service within the Alpine route.

Bijodaira

We didn’t spend much time at Tateyama Station. Once after exchange the pass, we waited for the cable car ascend from Tateyama station to Bijodaira station. The 7 minutes ride cost 720 yen for one way fare without the pass.

Bijodaira is the best place for Tateyama cedar viewing or bird watching. The legendary and gigantic beautiful woman Cedar can be found in Bijodaira. You can spend some time strolling in the virgin forest. However, we spent no time in Bijodaira and proceed to wait for the bus to our next hiking destination.

Tateyama Togen Highland Bus runs between Bijodaira Station and Murodo. There are few stops along the way, including the Midagahara Wetlands and Tateyama Snow Corridor (spring). Approximately one kilometer of spectacular Snow Wall is open to pedestrian from mid of April until June.

We choose to have a short walk in Midagahara Wetlands. Please take note, different waiting lines for buses to Murodo and Midagahara: go-direct or stop midpoint.

Midagahara Wetlands

The Midagahara (弥陀ヶ原) is a popular hiking spot for its natural scenery in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. It is one of the largest alpine wetlands in Japan which lies at an altitude of 1900 m.

Friendly reminder: Please book your next departure bus at Midagahara Bus Stop when get down from Tateyama Tagen Highway Bus.

There are two loop walking trail and another one trail lead to Tateyama caldera viewpoint. We choose the short loop to walk through the vast wetland area. Wooden boardwalks were built to protect the wetland environment. The 1-km trail took us less than one hour to complete.

Related travel post: A Short Walk in Midagahara Wetland

Murodo: Highest Point in Alpine Route

Next, we boarded the coming highway bus on time and continue to Murodo. Gosh!!! Out of sudden, the scenery was changed from Autumn leaves into snowy white after one turn. We understand the weather can be very cold at the summit. But we did not expect winter snow during October.

Again, we were surprised by the cold weather. Murodo has recently received first snow probably a few days ago. It turns the area into a winter wonderland. Although we miss the chance to view the vibrant colors of fall foliage. The view in Murodo covered with snow was still very breathtaking.

We took the short stroll to Mikurigaike Pond and had some great time there. The weather was so cold outside and we decided to get the hot udon soup when back to Murodo station. The price was slightly expensive but reasonable at this popular tourist spot.

Continue Read: Murodo, Highest Point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

From Murodo To Daikanbo

Next, we proceed to the Daikanbo with Trolleybus. It is an electric-powered buses transport travelers between Muroko to Daikanbo through the Mt Tateyama tunnel. The journey took about 10 minutes.

Daikanbo is a transfer station between the Tateyama Trolley Bus and the Tateyama Ropeway. This small station has an observation deck with great views of the mountains. But too bad, the fog was too thick and we couldn’t see anything from there. It much be very breathtaking when the sky is clear. We didn’t spend so much time in Daikanbo station and decided to proceed for the next destination by ropeway.

From Daikanbo to Kurobedaira, the ropeway ride provide 360-degree view on all side. This 1.7-kilometer-long ropeway is Japan’s longest one-span ropeway. It operate without any support between lower and lower and upper station. The 7 minutes ropeway ride will bring you to see the grand panoramic sights along the journey. Further down to lower elevation, the view started to change from snowy white into autumn foliage.

Take note, this ropeway ride is where you’ll usually encounter a bottleneck due to the limited number of passenger can be accommodating in one ride. So, normally it is long queues but line clear pretty fast. But expected longer waiting time during the Snow Wall Opening period.

Kurobedaira

The Kurobedaira (1828 m above sea level) is the transfer station between the Tateyama Ropeway and Kurobe Cablecar. After a few rounds of transfer, we decided to have some rest at Kurodebaira station.

Although there was still thick fog around, but the surrounding mountain scenery was very breathtaking. We took a lot of beautiful photos with the stunning Japanese Alps. The weather was still cold but much better at the Muroko.

Kurobedaira station also offers restaurants and souvenir shop for travelers. One of the signature snacks that you can try is the volcano ice cream in black color.

From Kurobedaira To Kurobeko

After a short break, we jumped on the Kurobe cable car from Kurobedaira to Kurobeko station. The Kurobe cablecar is Japan’s only underground cable car. It runs entirely inside the tunnel without impact by the snowfall. The journey takes about five minutes.

Kurobe Dam

The Kurobe Dam is nearly the end of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. We spend about 2 hours and wandering around at Kurobe Dam. Our visit was the season for fall foliage. We had a beautiful view with autumn vibrant leaves on the scenic mountain together with Kurobe lake.

We cross the spectacular Kurobe Dam and admire the beauty of the dam along the walk.

Added, we wandering around and climbed up the 220 long flight of stairs to Observation Deck. It is the best place to view on Kurobe Dam from above. There is a rest house where you can take some rest and try on Dam curry.

Next, we proceed to take the Kanden tunnel electric bus to Ogizawa. From there, we transferred to the local bus and back to Shinano Omachi.

Once we reached Shinano Omachi, we were almost relieved from the transportation arrangement in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. The JR Oita Line runs between Shinano-Omachi and Matsumoto with about one train per hour until about 10 pm. So we choose to dinner and try the Kurobe Dam Curry at one of the restaurant nearby station before proceeding to Matsumoto.

All in all, the full Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route took us about 9 hours. An early start from Toyama and end at Shinano Omachi in late evening. It was a full gear day and exhausted at the end of the day.

Teteyama Transportation Guide

Always, transportation is the biggest concern for most of the travelers for Alpine Route. But no worry. All the transport is incredibly well organized with signs in Japanese and English showing you the way at each station. So it is very easy even for non-Japanese travelers.

Don’t be confused by the variety of transport modes. It is simple and well connected along the journey. You may need to wait during the peak season, especially at the ropeway. But overall, we didn’t find it is difficult for us. The whole Alpine Route is divided into nine sections, each with different transport modes and walking distances.

Here is the full transport guide on Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

1. Train from Dentetsu-Toyama To Tateyama (60 minutes, ¥620)
2. Cable car from Tateyama to Bijodaira (7 minutes, ¥930)
3. Bus from Bijodaira to Murodo (50 minutes, ¥1240)
   • Option to stop at Midagahara
4. Trolleybus from Murodo to Daikanbo (10 min)
5. Ropeway from Daikanbo to Kurobedaira (7 min, ¥2200)
6. Cable car from Kurobedaira to Kurobe Dam (5 min)
7. Trolleybus from Kurobe Dam to Ogizawa (16 min, ¥790)
8. Bus from Ogizawa to Shinano-Omachi (40 min, ¥1390)
9. Local train/bus from Shinano-Omachi to Matsumoto/other destination

Planning Transport Along the Alpine Route

We stayed in Toyama and Matsumoto before and after the Alpine Route to ease on transport and luggage arrangement. Both places are very convenient and well connected with the JR train. We spend about half-day at each city to visit the city sights.

All in all, the full route of the Alpine route approximates cost about ¥12,000. The Alpine Route Pass greatly save us on the transportation fee. If your Chubu travel itinerary is similar to us, we highly recommended you to get one for this trip.

For JR Pass user, unfortunately, JR Pass is not covered for this route. But you can still get the discounted Tateyama Kurobe Option Ticket to save on some money. 

Baggage Delivery

To ease your travel, there are baggage delivery services between Toyama and Shinano-Omachi Station. Dropped off and picked up places are Dentetsu Toyama train station and “Alps Roman Kan” in Shinano-Omachi Station. The dropped in is between 8:00 morning to 11:00 morning. No reservation required. Baggage forwarding tag will be given and you can pick up at designated place after 15:00 until 20:00.

Depending on the size and the location. The cost per bag can be up ¥3,000 for one way. It might be slightly expensive. But it worth the money as you can travel leisurely. Most importantly, no big baggage is permitted along the Alpine Route.

However, we would like to start our trip earlier so that we can spend more time on Alpine route without worrying about pick up time. After consideration, we choose to have our luggage delivered directly from the hotel to the next hotel stay. There is few hotel provided the luggage delivery service. All luggage delivery services are required to pay in advance for each luggage transported.

Where To Stay

The best place to stay while doing the Alpine Route is to stay at one of the hotels along the route. We stayed in Comfort Hotel Toyama before our way to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route adventure. It is conveniently located nearby the Toyama station within 3 minutes walking distance. Most importantly, it provides the baggage delivery service for Alpine Route. Charges depend on luggage size.

When we reached Matsumoto, we stayed in Ace Inn Matsumoto. It is a standard business hotel without anything to wow for. But the location is the big winning point. 

There are few hotels also doing the same delivery service. Check it out if you need to look for accommodation for the Alpine route.

– Daiwa Roynet Hotel Toyama-Ekimae (2-min walk to Toyama Station)
– Toyama Excel Hotel Tokyu (3-min bus trip from Toyama Station)

Accommodation in Alpine Route

The Alpine Route trip takes about 8 hours to complete the full route. If you prefer for more leisure travel or hiking, consider staying at the top. There are few accommodations available for your lovely stay in the mountain top. Please make sure to reserve earlier as it may run out especially peak season.

We recommended Hotel Tateyama which located at Murodo, the highest point of the Alpine Route. You stay featured with a marvelous mountainous scenic view. Spend time hiking, sightseeing or even enjoy Japan’s highest onsen (hot spring). Staying at the top of the mountain must be a unique experience.. (Check Hotel Tateyama Rate here)

Another best traveler’s choice is Midagahara Hotel. It is one of the best places to stay in Alpine Route. You can spend time to explore the hiking trail in Midagahara area. Make sure to book for the half-board stay. Midagahara Hotel served the traditional Japanese and Western dinner for hotel guests. (Check Midagahara Hotel rate)

Tateyama Alpine Route Travel Tips

If possible, please start earlier in the morning. The full route of Alpine route takes about 8 hours. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine route is an extremely popular attraction among locals and foreigners. Don’t be surprised by tons of visitors come for the majestic snow corridor. Expected to wait for transport connection especially for the peak hour.

Delivery services are required as no big baggage is permitted along Alpine Route. You can drop off and picked up your luggage at the start point/endpoint of the Alpine route. While the cost of luggage delivery is not cheap. But it definitely worth the money. It is even ideal to stay in the hotel which can help to deliver your luggage to the next hotel stay.

Most people are travel to Alpine Route in one way, either from westbound or eastbound. Some people choose to travel on a round trip due to limited time. This is a popular option from Toyama to Murodo when the Snow Wall just opened. However, a round trip required higher fares, and JR Pass holder with discounted option ticket combined is not offered.

Various attractions and each station led to different natural. It is very easy to plan for a short or long hike along the Alpine route. But it is good to plan the length of the visit to each attraction. The last transport will end in the evening. It can be very troublesome if you fail to board the last transport. You can always refer to the website for the timetable.

Different waiting lines for direct and stop midpoint for Tateyama Togen Highland Bus which run between Bijodaira Station and Murodo. If you choose to stop halfway, for example, Midagahara Wetlands. Please make sure to book your next bus at the bus station. The bus won’t stop without reservation.

Do take note of the bus schedule especially the last bus leaves from Ogizawa to Shinano-Omachi or Nagano.

All in all, here is the summarised on Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Travel Tips:

• Start earlier in the morning
• No big luggage is permitted
• Trave in one way either from westbound or eastbound. A round trip required higher fares.
• Plan the length of visit at each attraction
• Take note on the bus schedule and waiting line

My Final Tateyama Kurobe Travel Tips

Lastly, if you are visiting Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route during the Snow Wall Opening period, please expected a large crowd and the wait time can be longer. Many travelers from local and overseas are flocking into the Murodo Station for the magnificent Snow Corridor.

Alpine Route Transportation Pass

There are various Japan Travel Pass available for foreign visitors. Depend on your Japan itinerary. The Whole Japan JR Pass is a good option for those who plan to travel to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido. There are also JR East and JR West Pass if you love to explore the specific region.

Keep in mind that most of the JR Pass including JR East, JR West, or Whole Japan JR Pass is not include for Alpine Route. But travelers are giving the option to get the discounted ticket for a one way Tateyama Kurobe (Alpine route) Option Ticket combined. The Option Ticket cost an additional 9,800 yen. You need to pay for this option ticket instead of buying the ticket separately.

Travelers are planning to visit the Chubu region together Alpine route. The Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass ¥17,830 is the best transport pass for you. You can plan on travel on from either direction between Toyama and Nagano/Shinano-Omagi Station. This pass can easily be extended your trip to nearby attractions for your Chubu travel itinerary.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

A journey going up to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route was a spectacular journey. We experienced the snow at Muroko and Autumn foliage at Midagahara and grand Kurobe Dam. It was unique for experiencing both seasons within one day. The view was so breathtaking and I wish I could come for different seasons. Probably the majestic Snow Wall for my next visit.

We enjoy venturing our trip to the mountain scenery. It is a MUST VISIT if you are in the Chubu region. We highly recommend the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route!

Last but not least, hopefully, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Travel Guide can give you some idea for your itinerary planning. Below are travel blog posts on Midagahara, Murodo, and Kurobe dam to explain more detail on each attraction.

• Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (Travel Guide + Itinerary)
• Midagahara: A Short Walk in Alpine Wetland
• Murodo: Highest Point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
• Kurobe Dam: Must Visit Attraction in Alpine Route

Next, please feel free to read on my Chubu travel story to Nagoya, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, and more:

• Nagoya Itinerary: A Guide For Things To Do in Nagoya
• Where To Stay in Nagoya: The Best Hotels and Areas
• Takayama Itinerary: What To Do and Eat in Takayama
• Where to Stay in Takayama: Best Hotel or Traditional Ryokan?
• Shirakawago Itinerary: A Walk Into Cultural Japan Village
• Kamikochi Itinerary: One Day Hike in Japan Alps
• Kanazawa Itinerary And Travel Guide: Things To Do in Kanazawa

Traveling within the Chubu region:

• Chubu Best Transport Pass: By Bus, Train, Self Driving
• Useful Tips on Renting Car in Japan

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

The impressive sight of Kurobe Dam is one of the must-visit attractions in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. We had a good time wandering around during our visit.

At height of 1500 meter, Kurobe Dam (黒部ダム) or Kuroyon Dam (黒四ダム) is the tallest dam (186 m) in Japan. It is built after World War II to generate additional electricity in hydroelectric power. The Kurobe lake behind the dam holds 200 million cubic meters of water. Up to 15 tons of water are spectacularly discharged through the dam. It able to generate one billion kWh per year to the Kansai region.

Kurobe Dam is nearly the end of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. We spend about 2 hours just wandering around the area. It was the season for fall foliage at around Kurobe. The view was so breathtaking with vibrant color of autumn leaves. Although the weather was not so good but the misty fog make for a majestic place.

Read on my Kurome dam blog to give you some idea if you are looking for what to do and eat in the Kurobe dam. Estimate spend time 2 hours in Kurobe dam.

Scenic View Along The Kurobe Pathway

Follow the crowd, we walked through the tunnel once get off from the Kurone cable car. It was about 5 minutes walking journey.

Once out from the tunnel, we were welcomed by the beautiful view. Gosh!!! The view was so spectacular.

The mist added to its beauty and made the Kurobe Dam like a fairyland.

We walked through the pathway and cross the Kurobe lake. It was about 15 minutes of walking journey. But it may take longer as we keep on taking photo along the journey.

We spotted the Kurobe Sightseeing cruises (Garube) which operated on the lake from June to early November. It is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery of Alps and Lake Kurobe. This highest sailing boat ride (at 1,448 m sea level) took about 30 minutes.

Kurobe Dam

The Kurobe Dam will discharge its high-pressure water from late June to mid-October. You can witness the dam discharging its spectacular amount of water during that time. It’s about 10 tons of water shoot out in every second. You may possible to see the rainbows arching across the plumes of water droplets if you’re lucky.

Unfortunately, on the day we visited, no water was released into the dam. We one week late according to the schedule!

Dam Observation Deck

Located at the eastern end, there is a Dam Observation Deck where you can have the best view of the dam and its surrounding terrain from above.

You need to climb up 280 steep long flight of stairs to see the finest view of the dam. It was a long hard climb. However, it worth the climb just for the amazing view.

You can also choose to go down to see the Monument to Workers. Almost 10 Million workers were worked on the dam for over 7 years. By the time it completed, 171 workers sadly lost their lives during the construction. There is a monument to dedicated the workers who sacrifice their lives on this incredible project.

We didn’t went for this route and only proceeded to upstairs.

It took us some time to climb over the 220 steps up to the Observation Deck. We were rewarded with a beautiful mountain view from Kurobe Dam once on top. All the steps were worth it!

We spend some time admiring the view from the Observation Deck.

There is Kurobe Rest House at the top of the Dam Observation Deck. We took some rest in the rest house. You can also try the Kurobe Dam Curry, a lake of delicious curry behind a dam of rice. But we were too full at that time. So we skipped it.

After we had admired the view at Kurobe Dam, we walked to on the other side of the dam to take the Kanden tunnel electric bus to Ogizawa.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Travel Blog:

• Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (Travel Guide + Itinerary)
• Midagahara: A Short Walk in Alpine Wetland
• Murodo: Highest Point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
• Kurobe Dam: Must Visit Attraction in Alpine Route

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Read on my short stroll in Murodo, the highest point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. A beautiful place with a fantastic view of Tateyama Mountain Range.

Murodo (室堂, Murodō) is a very popular sightseeing attraction in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. The main attraction is Snow Wall or Yuki-no-Otani which open from mid-April to mid-June. During this time, buses and people can walk through the Snow Wall. Many visitors from all around the world are coming along the way to witness its full glory.

Although the highlight of the Murodo is the Snow Wall. But every season has its beauty in its way. We visited Murodo at end of October and this area was already covered in snow. We did not have a chance to experience the snow corridor. But the view in Murodo was very breathtaking.

We spend some time wandering around and had a short stroll to Mikurigaike pond. Continue read on.

Murodo Hiking Trail

There are several short and long trails available in Murodo. During the summer, it would be fun to hike and explore nature. Many places are located within walking distance such as Mikurigaike pond, Tateyama Murodo Hut, onsens (hot springs) and Hell valley.

Here are an overview of Murodo hiking trails in that area:

• Mikurigaike pond return (600 meter, 30 minutes)
• Mikurigaike pond loop (1.7 km, 60 minutes)
• Raichozawa return (2.4 km, 150 minutes)

Short Stroll To Mikurigaike Pond

Once we walked out of Murodo Station, the snow is all around the places. It was so cold when we stepped out from the station. The best things was the snow turn this region into a winter wonderland. 

Within walking distance to the Murodo Station, there is a Tateyama Tamadono Spring Water. It is drinkable from early June when the snow starts to melt through to late October.

Too bad we miss the chance to drink the fresh cold mountain water.

We decided to do a short walk to Mikurigaike Pond. The pathway to the Mikurigaike Pond was covered in snow.

We manage walked to Mikurigaike Pond, going fairly slowly. Some area were about 10 cm deep of snow.

Did we miss to catch the sight of white Alpine ptarmigan? The ptarmigan is referred to as “messengers of God” and the Japanese believe that it will bring you happiness if you see a ptarmigan. The best place to spot them is in the area of Mikurigaike pond.

We had some hard time to walk to Mikurigaike pond. But still, we enjoyed the journey and the whole scenery is worth a visit. We would like to go further but it was impossible to do so. The weather was so cold especially with the strong wind and thick fog. We were not able to see things due to the thickened fog.

If you are visiting this area with snow, please remember to wear non-slip footwear. Added, the trekking pole would be handy as the snow on the stone paths sometimes gets slippery.

Lunch at Murodo Station

In the end, we went back to the Murodo Station to get our lunch. The hot udon was not very impressive but it was really helpful after the short stroll in cold weather. The price was slightly expensive but still reasonable.

The Murodo Station complex also includes a hotel called Hotel Tateyama which located at this highest point of the Alpine Route. It has Japan’s highest onsen (hot spring) and restaurant. Best place to stay in the Tateyama Alpine route is you are planning to visit this area in a relaxing mood. (check Hotel Tateyama Rate here)

After some rest, we continue our Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route itinerary to Daikanbo.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Travel Blog:

• Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route (Travel Guide + Itinenrary)
• Midagahara: A Short Walk in Alpine Wetland
• Murodo: Highest Point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
• Kurobe Dam: Must Visit Attraction in Alpine Route

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Read on how we walked through the highland marsh pond. A short walk in the Midagahara wetlands rewarded with a beautiful view in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Midagahara (弥陀ヶ原) is a popular hiking spot for its natural scenery, lies at an altitude of 1900 m. It is located halfway along the bus ride between Bijodaira and Murodo along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Being one of the largest alpine wetlands in Japan, Midagahara wetlands is surrounded by a variety of alpine plants. There are few popular hiking trail available if you spend some time to walk through the vast wetland area. Moreover, Autumn is the best time to visit when the alpine plants change colors.

Midagahara Walking Trail

There are two popular trail in Midagahara that covers the marshland and surroundings. Both are centered at the Midagahara bus stop. The easy 1-km short loop takes about 40 minutes. While the longer 2-km loop required about 80 minutes to pass by all the marsh’s pond and viewpoint. Additionally, there is another 40 minutes trail leads from Midagahara Hotel up the slope to the Tateyama Caldera Observatory.

Midagahara Walking Trail

• Boardwalk short loop (1 km, 40 minutes)
• Boardwalk long loop (2 km, 80 minutes)
• Tateyama caldera viewpoint (600 meter, 20 minutes)

Short Hike in Midagahara Short Loop

Due to the bad weather, we decided to go for the Midagahara Boardwalk short loop. Once get off from the bus, we proceeded to book our next departure bus from Midagahara to Murodo. As we will only go for the short loop, one hour is sufficient for us to complete the trail.

There were umbrella can be borrowed at the bus stop. Please return after the walk. Added, there were trail maps available at the bus stop.

The central attraction of Midagahara is the wetlands with 2 walking paths and also caldera. Follow the anti-clockwise direction, we slowly walk through the marshland’s trails.

Although the weather was not good, the view was still very breathtaking. Wooden boardwalks are built to protect the wetland environment.

Added, there was information on walking trail in Midagahara along the journey.

Midagahara Hotel is located nearby the bus stop. It is a Western-style hotel, situated at Midagahara wetland. Many visitors choose to stay one night in Midagahara Hotel to explore Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route leisurely. The price is much cheaper and reasonable compare with Tateyama Hotel. Don’t forget to book the half board stay as it is difficult to find food in the Tateyama area. (Check Midagahara Hotel rate)

Enjoy the beautiful views of the marsh set against the backdrop of the Tateyama Mountains range.

All in all, we had a great time with a short walk in the Midagahara wetland. Within one hour, we reached the Midagahara bus stop. Next, we boarded the coming bus and proceed to our Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route one day itinerary.

How To Get to Midagahara Wetland

• Board the Togen bus which runs between Bijodaira Station and Murodo. Next, get off at Midagahara Station.

Continue Read on Tateyama Kuroe Route Travel Blog

• Complete Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route (Travel Guide + Itinerary)
• Midagahara: A Short Walk in Alpine Wetland
• Murodo: Highest Point in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
• Kurobe Dam: Must Visit Attraction in Alpine Route