Highlights of the Kurobe Gorge Railway

The open-air carriages allow passengers to savour the beauty of the gorge before exploring on foot along walking trails leading to outdoor hot springs and guesthouses.

The railway runs from Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station. Enroute it passes through numerous tunnels and over many bridges, offering spectacular views of the gorge and river from the open-air carriages. For the best views, try to secure a seat on the righthand side of train for journey from Unazuki to Keyakidaira, and on the left from Keyakidaira to Unazuki.

Along the 20km route, there are several stations of which only two are open to the public – Kuronagi Station and Kanetsuri Station*. When riding the train, you can enjoyed the following highlights:

Unazuki Station Area

Trains run to and from Unazuki Station loocated next to Unazuki Onsen Station. The area is therefore accessible using the Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line from Shin-Kurobe Station – adjoining Kurobe-Unazukionsen Station – or from Dentetsu Toyama Station – nearby Toyama Station.

Unazuki Onsen is a hot spring town with a variety of accommodation – a great place to base yourself when riding the Kurobe Gorge Railway.

As you undertake your journey on the railway from Unazuki Station, passengers quickly encounter Unazuki Dam, Shin-Yanagawara Power Plant and Shin-Yamabiko Bridge.

Set against the forested gorge and sparking waters of the river and dam, the contrast of these solid industrial structures affords some great photography.

Kuronagi Station Area

Approximately 6.5km along the track, the first stop is Kuronagi Station.

From the platform, a stair descends to the river where a walking track heads to the open-air Kuronagi Onsen and famous sight of an old aqueduct. There is also one guesthouse in the area.

Immediately upon leaving the station, the train passes over the Atobiki Bridge. Measuring 64 metres in length and 60 metres in height, this bridge spans the deepest ravine within the overall Kurobe Gorge.

Kanetsuri Station Area

Kanetsuri is the next station along the track, around 14.5km from Unazuki Station. Passengers choosing to disembark here can descend to the river and a secluded hot spring.

A couple of observation points also allow for views of surrounding landscape including the unique sight of the ‘Kurobe Mannen Yuki’, snowfall that remains in the gorge all year round.

There is one guesthouse located immediately next to the train platform.

Keyakidaira Station Area

The final top is Keyakidaira Station at the end of the 20km track. As the final stop and destination for most passengers, Keyakidaira also has the most to do and see including several walking tracks, outdoor springs, viewing platforms and restaurants.

Okukane Bridge spans the Kuronagi River at 34 metres height, connecting the Babadani and Meiken Onsen areas. Walking tracks range from 10 to 60 minutes (one-way) on both sides of the river with a couple of guesthouses to choose from should you wish to stay the night and return to Unazuki the next day – make sure to book in advance.

*Please note, in April and May, some services also stop and allow passengers to disembark at Sasadiara Station. For daily train schedules, refer to our ‘Kurobe Gorge Railway Timetable’ page.