Day Tour From Kanazawa/Toyama: Snow Wall & Mysterious Valley

Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the Tateyama mountain range beckons travelers with its winter wonderland. A day tour from Kanazawa or Toyama offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s natural wonders. Utilizing various modes of transportation, the tour takes visitors to an elevation of 2,450 meters, where they can explore the iconic Snow Walls and Mysterious Valley. Under the guidance of an English-speaking expert, travellers will uncover the rich cultural heritage of Ashikuraji village and witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. As the journey unfolds, one can only imagine the captivating sights and stories that await.

Key Points

• The tour provides an opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Tateyama mountain range, including the iconic Snow Walls and Mysterious Valley.
• Travelers can choose to depart from either Kanazawa Station or Toyama Station, with flexible start times and transportation modes.
• The journey includes a guided tour of the historic Ashikuraji village, providing insights into the cultural and natural significance of the area.
• Participants will experience the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, featuring breathtaking landscapes, various mountain transports, and panoramic vistas of the Northern Alps.
• The tour includes a lunch break at Murodo, surrounded by the alpine scenery, and ample time to explore and photograph the snow-capped peaks and walls.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day tour from Kanazawa or Toyama provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating natural wonders of the Tateyama mountain range. Lasting one full day, the tour takes visitors through the iconic Snow Walls and the Mysterious Valley, showcasing Japan’s dramatic alpine landscape.

Guests can expect a variety of transportation modes, including buses and mountain trains, to reach the summit at an elevation of 2,450 meters. Along the way, an English-speaking guide leads informative tours, providing insights into the region’s geography and geology.

The tour also includes a lunch stop, allowing participants to refuel and soak in the breathtaking vistas surrounding them.

Departure Options

Travelers have two convenient starting points for this tour: Kanazawa Station and Toyama Station. Departing from Kanazawa Station, the tour begins at 8:00 AM. Those joining from Toyama Station will depart at 9:00 AM.

Both groups will travel together by bus/coach for the 110-minute journey to Ashikuraji. This provides guests with flexibility to choose the starting location most suitable for their needs and travel plans.

Whether visiting from Kanazawa or Toyama, the tour will ensure an immersive experience exploring Japan’s iconic Snow Walls and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Journey to Ashikuraji

The bus/coach departs from either Kanazawa Station or Toyama Station, embarking on the 110-minute journey to Ashikuraji.

Along the way, travelers will witness the stunning landscapes of the Japanese countryside, including rolling hills, lush forests, and distant mountain peaks.

Upon arrival at Ashikuraji, the group will disembark and embark on a guided tour of this historic village. The guide will provide insights into the cultural and natural significance of the area, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for this unique destination.

With the scenic drive and informative tour, the journey to Ashikuraji sets the stage for the awe-inspiring sights that await at the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Guided Tour at Ashikuraji

Upon arrival at Ashikuraji, the group disembarks and embarks on a guided tour of this historic village. The guide provides insight into the village’s rich cultural heritage, pointing out traditional thatched-roof houses and sharing stories of the local people’s resilience in the face of harsh mountain conditions.

Visitors are captivated by the quaint, time-honored atmosphere as they stroll through the narrow streets, stopping to admire the intricate woodcarvings and the village’s well-preserved architectural features. The tour offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the Ashikuraji residents, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s unique identity and the enduring traditions that shape this mountain community.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

After the guided tour of the historic Ashikuraji village, the group boards the bus once more, embarking on the iconic Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. This scenic journey takes them through a breathtaking landscape, featuring a variety of mountain transports to reach the summit of 2450 meters.

The highlights of the route include:

1. Enjoying panoramic vistas of Japan’s highest mountain range, the Northern Alps.
2. Marveling at the dramatic alpine scenery, including glaciers, valleys, and rugged peaks.
3. Experiencing the thrill of riding the Tateyama Ropeway, one of the world’s highest cable cars.

The tour allows ample time for sightseeing and photo opportunities along the way, culminating in a relaxing lunch at the Murodo terminal.

Lunch and Free Time at Murodo

Arriving at the Murodo terminal, the group enjoys a well-deserved lunch break. Surrounded by the breathtaking alpine landscape, they savor a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views. The lunch provided as part of the tour offers a selection of local specialties, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Meal Options	Description
Japanese Set Lunch	Traditional Japanese dishes, including rice, miso soup, and seasonal vegetables
Vegetarian Option	Plant-based dishes, suitable for those with dietary restrictions
Ramen	Hearty noodle soup, a popular Japanese comfort food

After lunch, the group is free to explore the area, admiring the snow-capped peaks and capturing memorable photographs before continuing their journey.

Photographic Opportunities at Murodo

Breathtaking photo opportunities abound at Murodo, the stunning alpine terminal along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Visitors can capture the dramatic mountainous scenery, including:

1. The captivating snow walls towering up to 20 meters high, creating an otherworldly, pristine landscape.
2. The serene Mikurigaike Pond, its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding peaks.
3. The iconic Tateyama Mountain Range, showcasing Japan’s highest peaks bathed in sunlight or shrouded in clouds.

With ample time to explore and photograph Murodo, travelers can immortalize the breathtaking alpine vistas that highlight the natural wonders of this remarkable region.

Return to Kanazawa or Toyama

The return journey to Kanazawa or Toyama is a seamless transition, with a comfortable bus/coach transporting travelers for the 3-hour drive. Along the way, passengers can sit back and enjoy the scenic vistas of the Japanese countryside. The tour guide provides commentary, ensuring travelers understand the significance of the landscapes they pass through.

Upon arrival at either Kanazawa Station or Toyama Station, the tour concludes, allowing participants to explore the cities further or make their way to their next destination. The efficient transportation and informative guidance throughout the return leg solidify the day’s memorable experience exploring the Snow Walls and Mysterious Valley of the Tateyama region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own food on the tour. However, a lunch is already provided as part of the tour package, so bringing additional food may not be necessary.

What Is the Seating Arrangement on the Bus?

The tour bus features a standard coach seating arrangement, with rows of forward-facing padded seats. Passengers can expect comfortable and spacious seating during the rides to and from the various stops along the tour.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Journey?

The tour includes restroom breaks during the journey. Passengers can use the facilities at the various stops along the route, such as at the Ashikuraji area and the Murodo summit.

Can I Request a Vegetarian/Halal/Kosher Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian, halal, or kosher meal for this tour. The tour provider offers these dietary options upon request, so be sure to inform them of your preference when booking the tour.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Bus and at the Sites?

The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the bus or at the sites. Travelers will need to rely on their own mobile data plans or prepaid Wi-Fi devices to stay connected during the day-long excursion.

Recap

This day tour from Kanazawa or Toyama provides an immersive experience in the breathtaking natural wonders of the Tateyama mountain range. Travelers can explore iconic landmarks, including the Snow Walls and Mysterious Valley, while learning about the region’s rich cultural heritage. With various modes of transportation and an English-speaking guide, this tour offers a unique opportunity to marvel at the panoramic vistas of the Northern Alps and the Tateyama Ropeway.

You can check if your dates are available here: