Kuronagi Station is a remote stop on the Kurobe Gorge Railway, a spectacular sightseeing train that winds through one of Japan's deepest ravines. The station is primarily a gateway to the secluded Kuronagi Onsen, a hot spring inn known for its rustic charm and natural setting. This scenic railway journey offers breathtaking views of the gorge's steep cliffs and pristine river, making Kuronagi a memorable part of the ride.
The Kurobe Gorge Railway
The Kurobe Gorge is a breathtakingly beautiful ravine, considered one of Japan's deepest, carved by the Kurobe River in the Northern Japan Alps. Its history is deeply tied to the Kurobe Gorge Railway, a narrow-gauge train originally built in the early 20th century to transport materials for the construction of a massive hydroelectric power plant. The gorge's rugged terrain made it one of the most challenging engineering projects in the country, with workers overcoming steep cliffs and dense forests to build the tracks. Today, the railway is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a scenic journey through this stunning, untouched landscape.
Getting to Kuronagi Station
From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kurobe-Unazukionsen Station, then transfer to the Toyama Chiho Railway at nearby Shin-Kurobe Station to reach Unazuki Onsen Station. From Osaka or Kyoto, take the JR Thunderbird limited express to Kanazawa, then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kurobe-Unazukionsen Station before continuing on the Toyama Chiho Railway. The last portion of the journey on the Toyama Chiho Railway is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. To get from Unazuki Onsen to Kuronagi Station, you must take the Kurobe Gorge Railway.
NOTE: If you want to get off at this station you have to buy a specific round trip ticket to Kuronagi Station. If you choose to go do the entire length of the trolley train you can get on and off at any time but once you get off your designated train you do not have a "reserved car" anymore. That means that you can get on the next train only if there are openings on that train. This is not an issue for most of the year but during the busy season it can be difficult.
Things to do at Kuronagi Station
Kuronagi Station serves as a gateway to the secluded Kuronagi Onsen Ryokan. Visitors can take a scenic 20-minute walk from the station to this hot spring inn, where they can enjoy open-air baths alongside the Kuronagi River. The station itself offers fantastic views of the Atobiki Bridge and is a popular spot for photography.
Recommended Destinations in the Region
The Kurobe Gorge is one of many great places in the region that you can explore. Once you're done here you can explore further afield in Toyama, Kanazawa and the greater Hokuriku region. If you are interested, check out our "Top Things to do in Toyama" page!
THE TATEYAMA-KUROBE ALPINE ROUTE
The Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route is famous for its stunning and varied landscapes, with attractions changing dramatically depending on the season. In spring, visitors flock to see the magnificent snow walls of Murodo, which can tower up to 20 meters high, creating a unique and spectacular corridor. As the snow melts, summer reveals lush alpine scenery, with opportunities for hiking around the beautiful Mikurigaike Pond and enjoying the views from Japan's highest dam, the Kurobe Dam. In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with vibrant fall foliage, offering a brilliant contrast of reds, yellows, and oranges against the stark peaks.
If you are looking for a tour, we have two from the Toyama side of the mountain. The first is to the Snow Walls that last from April to mid-June and the second is a light hiking tour that goes to Murodo, the Midagahara Wetlands and Shomyo Falls. Check them out below!
Recommended
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa or Toyama: Tateyama Alpine Route Snow Wall and Mysterious Valley
[Summer/Fall Only] From Kanazawa: Shomyo Falls, Light Alpine Hikes and Tateyama Mountain's Majesty
- Spots:
- KanazawaAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
TOYAMA CITY
In Toyama, visitors can experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, starting with panoramic views of the Japanese Alps from the Toyama City Hall Observatory. The city's samurai past can be explored at Toyama Castle, while its legacy in traditional medicine is highlighted at the historic Ikedaya Medicine Shop and the nearby Glass Museum. Additionally, the tour extends to Ecchu Yatsuo, a picturesque town renowned for its cobblestone streets and the famous Owara Kaze no Bon festival, offering insights into local traditions and festivals. Sources
TAKAOKA
Takaoka, a city with over 350 years of diverse history next to Toyama Bay, was once known as the "Kitchen of Kanazawa" for its production of food, metalworking, and pottery, with significant wealth invested in grand temples like Zuiryuji and Shokoji, both designated National Treasures. If you want to visit to these historic temples, a hands-on metalworking activity, see a Big Buddha and scenic views of the snow-capped Tateyama mountains from the Amaharashi Coast, join us! The tour starts and ends at Kanazawa but is all in Takaoka. Check it out below!
If you are looking more for nature than temples, we have another version of the tour for you! At Kanazawa Station you'll hop on one of our buses and head to the Amaharashi Coast, the Great Buddha and then the beautiful Shogawa River Cruise. Check it out below!
KANAZAWA
Often called a "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa is one of the most underrated cities in the country. A city steeped in history, but preserving those traditions as it moves towards modernity, Kanazawa has nature strolls, street food, ancient shrines and world-class museums - many of which are within walking distance of each other. To get more information, check out our guide "30 Things to Do Around Kanazawa and Where to Stay." You can see all of Kanazawa's main sights on our highly-rated walking tour of the city.
If you are looking to go a bit deeper in to the Higashichaya Teahouse district, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle and Oyama Shrine, we have another day in Kanazawa that may scratch that itch. This tour doesn't go to the Nagamachi Samurai district, but instead will have you go inside the Seisonkaku Villa in Kenrokuen. Check it out below!
Why Choose Us?
Awarded a 2022 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for our 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour – recognized as one of the Top 10 Experiences in Japan – we have the local knowledge and experience to help you get the most out of your time in Japan.
Got a question about visiting Kanazawa and Central Japan? Click on the INQUIRY button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Kuronagi Station big?
No, it is basically just the platform.
Is there food at the station?
No, but there is a vending machine. If you stay at Kuronagi Onsen they serve food there to staying guests only.
Do you have any other information about Toyama (Prefecture) and its surroundings?
Yes! We also have a "Famous Foods in Toyama" as well as a "Best Souvenirs from Toyama" for more specific interests. If you like exploring the more spiritual side of Japan check out the "Best Shrines and Temples in Toyama" as well as "Best Goshuin near Toyama" which covers the popular red stamp you can get at those locations! Looking for ski information? "Best Ski Resorts in Toyama." How about museums? "Best Museums in Toyama." Finally we have a "Best Onsen Hot Springs in Toyama," "Best Museums in Toyama" and "Pokemon Manhole Covers - Kanazawa, Toyama and Fukui." There really is something for everyone!
