
Kurobe Gorge (黒部峡谷) is a scenic valley located in Toyama Prefecture in central Japan. The gorge stretches for approximately 20 kilometers and is carved out by the Kurobe River, which flows through the Northern Alps.
Kurobe Gorge is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes steep cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. Visitors to the gorge can enjoy a scenic train ride on the Kurobe Gorge Railway, also known as the “Torokko Train,” which runs for 20 kilometers through the heart of the gorge. Please note that the Torokko Train operates from late April to the end of November.
The Torokko Train is a narrow-gauge railway that winds its way through the narrow valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The train ride takes approximately 80 minutes each way and includes several stops along the way, where visitors can get off the train and explore the local scenery.
In addition to the train ride, visitors to Kurobe Gorge can also enjoy hiking trails and fishing. The gorge is particularly popular during the autumn months when the leaves of the trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold, creating a stunning display of autumn foliage.
While there are no hot springs within Kurobe Gorge, Unazuki Onsen, located at the starting point of the Kurobe Gorge Railway, is a popular hot spring resort where visitors can relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the natural hot springs.
Other notable attractions in the Kurobe Gorge area include the Kurobe Dam, Keyakidaira (the final stop of the Torokko Train), Sarutobi Gorge, and Babadani Onsen (accessible only by a 5-hour hike).
Kurobe Gorge Trolley Train
Hours | The first train from Unazuki Station departs at 7:32 AM, and the last train departs at 3:40 PM. Closed from December to mid-April of the following year due to heavy snowfall. |
Admission | April 19 – April 24 (Round trip between Unazuki and Sasadaira) ・Adults: 1,660 yen ・Children: 840 yen April 25 – November 30 (Round trip between Unazuki and Nekomata) ・Adults: 2,820 yen ・Children: 1,420 yen Regular full-route operation (Round trip between Unazuki and Keyakidaira) ・Adults: 4,960 yen ・Children: 2,480 yen Additional fee: An extra charge of 600 yen applies for using the Relax Coach (car with windows). |
Phone | +81 765-62-1011 |
Address | 11 Kurobekyokokuguchi, Kurobe, Toyama 938-0283 |
Official Website | https://www.kurotetu.co.jp/en/ |
Getting there
From Toyama Station to Unazuki Station:
Train | Toyama Station ↓ Ainokaze Toyama Railway Line ↓ 25 minutes (6 stops) Uozu Station ↓ Walk about 1 minute ↓ Shin-Uozu Station ↓ Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line ↓ 51 minites (17 stops) Unazuki Onsen Station ↓ Walk about 4 minutes ↓ Unazuki Station (Cost 1,540 yen) |
