1 Day Tour From Kanazawa: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen

Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Chubu region, this captivating 1-day tour from Kanazawa promises an immersive exploration of two natural wonders. Travelers will embark on a scenic trolley train ride through the dramatic Kurobe Gorge, marveling at the striking rock formations, before experiencing the rejuvenating natural foot bath at Sarutobikyo. The journey continues to the charming Unazuki Onsen, blending Western and Japanese architectural influences from the Taisho era. With its therapeutic healing spring waters, this captivating destination offers a truly unique cultural experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a cultural connoisseur, this guided tour provides a seamless way to uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• A 1-day tour from Kanazawa exploring the scenic Kurobe Gorge by trolley train and the historic Unazuki Onsen town, known for its clear spring waters and Taisho-era architecture.
• Includes Shinkansen, train, and trolley train tickets, an English-speaking guide, and a bento lunch, with the option to join from either Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station.
• Discover the geological wonders of Kurobe Gorge, including the famous Sarutobikyo or ‘Monkey Jumping Gorge’ and a natural foot bath area formed by millions of years of erosion.
• Experience the unique blend of Western and Japanese architectural influences in the historic Unazuki Onsen town, including covered foot baths and a serene Buddha statue.
• The tour is limited to a maximum group size of 15 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience with the guide.

Tour Overview

The 1-day tour from Kanazawa to Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen costs $177.21 per person and offers the option to join from either Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide throughout, as well as Shinkansen, train, and trolley train tickets, plus a bento lunch.

Participants will explore the scenic Kurobe Gorge by trolley train, taking in the breathtaking views and visiting sites like Sarutobikyo (Monkey Jumping Gorge) and a natural foot bath area.

The tour also includes a visit to the historic Unazuki Onsen town, known for its clear spring water and Taisho-era architecture.

The group size is limited to 15 participants.

Unazuki Onsen: A Blend of Cultures

Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Unazuki Onsen is an enchanting town that blends centuries-old hot spring traditions with a unique architectural style reflecting the 1920s Taisho period.

Founded over a century ago, this onsen town is known for its clear, healing spring waters. The buildings here showcase a stunning mix of Western and Japanese influences, creating a one-of-a-kind ambiance.

Visitors can enjoy the town’s covered foot baths and a serene Buddha statue, both believed to have therapeutic properties. Whether seeking relaxation or culture, Unazuki Onsen offers a truly distinctive experience that transports travelers back in time while soothing both body and mind.

Exploring Kurobe Gorge

Visitors exploring Kurobe Gorge can ride a scenic trolley train through the breathtaking landscape, taking in the striking rock formations that line the deep, winding ravine.

The journey leads to the famous Sarutobikyo, or ‘Monkey Jumping Gorge,’ where visitors can see the natural foot bath area. This unique geological feature was formed by millions of years of erosion and is a highlight of the tour.

Along the way, guests will marvel at the gorge’s rugged beauty and snap photos of the awe-inspiring views. The tour provides an immersive experience in one of Japan’s most stunning natural wonders, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the power and grandeur of the natural world.

Sarutobikyo and Natural Foot Bath

Along the scenic trolley train ride through Kurobe Gorge, one of the most captivating stops is the natural foot bath at the famous Sarutobikyo, or ‘Monkey Jumping Gorge.’

Visitors can soothe their tired feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters that bubble up from the earth. The foot bath offers:

Relaxation – The soothing waters help relieve muscle tension and stress.
Rejuvenation – The natural minerals are believed to have therapeutic benefits for the skin and circulation.
Scenic views – Guests can enjoy the stunning gorge scenery while soaking their feet.
Unique experience – Bathing in an all-natural outdoor foot spa is a quintessential part of the Kurobe Gorge adventure.

Geological Wonders of the Gorge

The Kurobe Gorge boasts an array of captivating geological formations that have captivated visitors for generations. Towering cliffs of volcanic rock line the steep canyon walls, showcasing the area’s dramatic tectonic history.

Intriguing rock formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, dot the landscape. Visitors can marvel at the peculiar shapes and colors of the rock, from smooth, rounded boulders to jagged spires.

One particularly notable feature is Sarutobikyo, or ‘Monkey Jumping Gorge,’ where a narrow ravine invites the imagination to picture agile primates leaping across.

Throughout the gorge, the interplay of water, wind, and rock has created a visually stunning natural wonder that enchants all who witness it.

Inclusions and Tour Logistics

This 1-day tour from Kanazawa to Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen includes an English-speaking guide throughout, as well as transportation via Shinkansen, train, and trolley train.

A bento box lunch is also provided for participants.

The tour has a group size limited to 15 people and can be joined from either Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station.

The full-day experience lasts from morning to evening, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the region.

The tour provides:

1. Guided exploration of the scenic Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen.
2. Tickets for the Shinkansen, train, and trolley train.
3. A delicious bento box lunch.
4. A small-group setting for a more personalized experience.

Meeting Point and Tour Duration

Travelers can join the tour either from Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station, offering convenient access points for participants.

The full-day experience lasts from morning to evening, allowing ample time to immerse in the natural wonders of the region.

The meeting point at both locations provides a seamless start to the adventure.

Guests will explore the picturesque Kurobe Gorge and the historic Unazuki Onsen town over the course of the day, guided by an English-speaking expert.

With a maximum group size of 15, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience for all travelers.

Whether starting from Kanazawa or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen, the day-long itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through Japan’s stunning landscapes.

Group Size Limitation

A key feature of this Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen tour is its limited group size, capping participation at 15 individuals. This intimate group setting allows for a more personalized experience, enabling the English-speaking guide to provide attentive care and attention to each traveler throughout the day’s activities.

The benefits of this smaller group size include:

1. Easier navigation through the scenic areas and attractions.
2. Increased opportunities for individual interactions with the guide.
3. More flexibility to accommodate personalized needs or requests.
4. A heightened sense of camaraderie and shared experience among the participants.

This thoughtful group size limitation ensures a comfortable, engaging, and enriching tour for all who embark on this journey to Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly prohibit participants from bringing their own food. However, a bento box lunch is included in the tour price, so bringing additional food may not be necessary.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for children or seniors. Pricing is a flat rate of $177.21 per person regardless of age. The tour’s inclusions and logistics stay the same for all participants.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?

The tour spends about 2-3 hours exploring Unazuki Onsen and 3-4 hours riding the trolley train through Kurobe Gorge. Participants will have time to visit the natural foot bath and see the monkey jumping gorge along the way.

What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?

If the tour is cancelled due to weather, the tour provider will notify participants and issue a full refund. Customers won’t be charged and can reschedule for a safer day.

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to an extent. Travelers can choose to join from either Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station. However, the tour’s core itinerary and inclusions are fixed and can’t be significantly altered.

Recap

This 1-day tour from Kanazawa offers an immersive exploration of Japan’s natural wonders.

Travelers will embark on a scenic trolley train ride through the dramatic Kurobe Gorge, experience the rejuvenating natural foot bath at Sarutobikyo, and visit the charming Unazuki Onsen town.

This guided experience provides a seamless way to discover these captivating destinations in a single day.