The Murodo Plateau is a stunning volcanic plateau located at the heart of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, serving as its highest point and main transportation hub. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Northern Japan Alps, it offers a breathtaking landscape of volcanic craters, alpine ponds, and snowfields that persist throughout the summer.
A Short History
The history of the Murodo Plateau is deeply intertwined with the spiritual significance of the Tateyama Mountains, which have been revered for centuries as one of Japan's three holy peaks. For over a thousand years, Murodo served as a base for Buddhist and Shinto pilgrims embarking on sacred journeys to the summit. It was only in the 20th century that the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route area was developed with mountain lodges and a bus route, transforming it from a remote religious site into the major tourist and hiking hub it is today.
Things to do on the Murodo Plateau
A visit to the Murodo Plateau offers a variety of activities for all levels of hikers and explorers. The most popular option is to take a leisurely stroll around Mikurigaike Pond, a stunning volcanic lake with a vibrant blue color that perfectly reflects the surrounding peaks. You can also venture to the nearby Hell Valley (Jigokudani) observation deck to see the area's volcanic activity, or visit the Mikurigaike Onsen, the highest-altitude hot spring in Japan.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, Murodo is the perfect base for full-fledged mountain climbing. From here, you can embark on a serious hike to the summit of Mt. Tateyama, a challenging but rewarding climb that is popular with experienced mountaineers. Even if you don't climb the peak, the shorter trails and a visit to the Raichozawa Campground offer opportunities to explore the beautiful alpine flora and fauna, including the elusive Ptarmigan, a symbol of the area.
Interesting Sites Around the Murodo Plateau
Aside from the Murodo Plateau, the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route is home to a number of other cool sights worth seeing. Descend from Murodo to Daikanbo, where a stunning observation deck offers a panoramic view of the Northern Japan Alps and the vast Kurobe Lake below. The route's true centerpiece is the massive Kurobe Dam, an impressive feat of engineering that you can walk across to witness its famous discharge, an experience completely unlike anything else on the journey. If you are more in hiking, Midagahara is a vast wetlands with colorful Alpine flowers throughout the summer.
Visiting Murodo
From Toyama, you can easily access Murodo by starting at Tateyama Station, where you will take a series of transports on the western side of the Alpine Route. From Nagano, the journey begins at Ogizawa Station, where a series of mountain transports on the eastern side will take you up to Murodo. No matter which direction you approach from, the Alpine Route's unique mix of buses, cable cars, and ropeways ensures a seamless journey to the top.
Tours to Murodo
It can be a hassle making reservations for all the different forms of transportation up and down the mountain from both sides. To make it easier, booking a tour is often the best option. Check out our tours that leave from both Nagano and Kanazawa/Toyama!
Best Selling
[Spring Only] 1-Day Tour from Nagano: Snow Walls of Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route
- Spots:
- NaganoAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
The snow walls are at their best from the opening day in April until mid-June, after which the snow melts to reveal the rugged landscape and allow for outstanding hiking through summer and autumn, climaxing with stunning autumn colors in October until the route closes again in November. Visitors can start from the Nagano-side via Ogizawa Station, or the Toyama-side via Tateyama Station.
[Summer/Autumn only] Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
- Spots:
- NaganoAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
A series of mountain transports accessible to all fitness levels including trolley buses, cable cars, a ropeway, and underground coaches carry visitors to and from Ogizawa Station and Murodo Station – which at 2,540 meters is the highest station in Japan. Omachi is in a perfect location for those who looking to appreciate the grandeur of the alpine route.
Check here for our Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route from Kanazawa and Toyama.
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
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What's the temperature like on the Murodo Plateau?
Temperatures on the Murodo Plateau are dramatically different throughout the year, so it's essential to check the forecast before you go. Summer temperatures are a comfortable 10°C to 15°C, while autumn brings a crisp chill with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C, leading to freezing conditions in late October.
When is the best time to visit Murodo?
The best time to visit Murodo depends on what you want to experience, as each season offers a unique landscape. For hikers and alpine scenery lovers, the months from late July to mid-September offer the most comfortable weather, while those who want to see the stunning autumn colors should visit from late September to late October.
Any good things to buy on the Alpine Route?
Check out our "Best Souvenirs from the Alpine Route" to learn more! They include exclusive North Face t-shirts, local sake and craft beer, as well as sweets and stuffed animals shaped like the famous rock ptarmigan.
How do I get to Murodo?
From Tokyo, you can take a Shinkansen to either Nagano or Toyama and then transfer to the local transport to begin your journey on the Alpine Route to Murodo; from Osaka, you can take a Shinkansen to either Toyama or Nagoya and then continue your journey to the start of the route.
How long should I plan to be in Murodo for?
For a fulfilling visit to Murodo, plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the main sights, but consider dedicating a full day or even an overnight stay if you want to enjoy the longer hikes and truly immerse yourself in the alpine environment.
