December on the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route is defined by closure for the deep winter season, with the entire route completely shut down due to extreme weather and heavy, impassable snowfall. The major transport segments, including the cable cars, buses, and ropeways connecting Tateyama and Ogizawa, are all inaccessible to the public. The stunning landscape is fully sealed off under a deep, pristine blanket of white, remaining in this inaccessible state until the late-spring (April) opening.
This guide provides everything you need to know for a November visit to the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, from what to expect from the changing weather and travel tips to how to make the most of this magical time. Opting for a guided tour is an excellent way to navigate the route with ease and comfort, letting you immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring mountain scenery, the majestic Kurobe Dam, and the memorable journey through the heart of the Japanese Alps without any of the logistical hassle.
When does the Alpine Route Re-Open?
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is scheduled to reopen for the 2026 season on April 15, 2026. This world-famous mountain sightseeing route remains closed throughout the winter and will stay open until November 30, 2026. If you are planning a visit to see the iconic (Snow Wall), you should aim to arrive between the opening day in mid-April and late June, as this is when the snow corridors are at their most impressive height.
Because this is a highly popular bucket-list destination, it is highly recommended to book a tour to get to the top of the mountain. Time slots for the cable cars and highland buses can sell out quickly during the peak spring season. Check out some tours that start from Kanazawa, Toyama and Nagano below!
Recommended
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa or Toyama: Tateyama Alpine Route Snow Wall and Mysterious Valley
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
Other Tours in Toyama Prefecture in December
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Beautiful Amaharashi, A Big Buddha and the Shogawa Valley River Cruise
November is an excellent month for exploring the Amaharashi Coast and the historic city of Takaoka. As the fall colors in the mountains come to a close, a different kind of beauty emerges along the coast. The cooler weather and the crisp, clear air often create dramatic, cloud-filled backdrops for the iconic views of the Amaharashi Coast, where the sea and mountains meet. This tour beautifully combines stunning coastal scenery with the rich cultural heritage of Takaoka. It's a perfect time to experience the region's serene, late-autumn atmosphere and the rich history of the city.
Highlights:
- Capture photos of the Amaharashi Coast, where the sea, mountains, and trees meet.
- See the famous Takaoka Big Buddha and the traditional streets of the city.
- Take a river cruise through the scenic Shogawa Valley.
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
December transforms the quaint, traditional landscape of the Japanese countryside into a quiet winter sanctuary, offering an unparalleled view of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. These villages, with their beautifully preserved gassho-style houses, become utterly magical as they are dusted with the season’s first snow, revealing the profound, over 250-year-old history of Japan's farming communities in a setting of serene, white elegance.
On the journey from Kanazawa, the tour includes a stop in the historic town of Inami, where the enduring tradition of woodcarving provides a warm, engaging contrast to the cold outside; here, you can admire expert craftsmanship and even try your hand at Japanese style paper making, a local craft. Enjoy a full day bus tour from Kanazawa that seamlessly connects the breathtaking, snow-dusted majesty of the World Heritage homes with the unique, living artistic traditions thriving in the mountains.
Highlights:
- Visit the town of wood carvers in Inami, where you will walk through a street that is still home to masters of the craft and then see Zuisenji, a 300-year-old temple known for its beautiful carvings.
- Try your hand at traditional Japanese paper making in Gokayama.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site village of Shirakawa-go and enter one of the homes to get more of a feel for the history and excellent craftsmanship of the area.
- ***December 27 - January 5rd: There is no papermaking experience on these days. We apologize for the inconvenience.***
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
More Ways to Visit Toyama
Beyond our guided tours, we provide private charters and flexible travel options to Toyama. These are an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a personalized itinerary or the comfort of a private vehicle. Charters are ideal for families, couples, or groups who want to experience the best of Toyama and the surrounding region with complete convenience and freedom.
COMING SOON!
For a general overview of what's around Toyama check out our "Things to do in Toyama." 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! Finally we have a "Best Onsen Hot Springs in Toyama," "Best Museums in Toyama" and finally "Pokemon Manhole Covers - Kanazawa, Toyama and Fukui." There really is something for everyone!
