As autumn paints the mountains in vibrant shades of red and gold, Toyama becomes an unforgettable destination. This 3-day itinerary is the perfect way to experience the best of the season, blending city exploration with stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. You'll explore the modern cityscape of Toyama and its historic districts, travel deep into the breathtaking Kurobe Gorge on a scenic railway, and discover the UNESCO World Heritage gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Gokayama. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Japan's most captivating autumn landscapes.
Where is Toyama?
Toyama is both a prefecture and a city in Japan, located in the Chūbu region on the main island of Honshu. It is situated on the coast of the Sea of Japan, with the dramatic Northern Japan Alps forming a mountainous backdrop. The area is home to some of Japan's most famous natural wonders, including the spectacular Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, the highest waterfall in Japan at Shomyo Falls, and the beautiful Kurobe Gorge.
How to get to Toyama
For those traveling from Tokyo, the fastest way to reach Toyama is by taking the Hokuriku Shinkansen, a journey that takes approximately two hours. From Osaka, you can take a limited express train to Tsuruga Station and then transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen, with the total trip taking about three hours.
Check out our "How to get to Toyama" page to learn more!
Day 1 - Toyama City
Toyama City's central area offers a blend of modern architecture and historical sites. A must-see is the stunning Toyama Glass Art Museum, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, which showcases an impressive collection of contemporary glass art. For a relaxing urban escape, the expansive Kansui Park provides picturesque scenery and you can enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Fugan Canal.
Beyond the city center, the historic district of Ecchu Yatsuo offers a glimpse into a more traditional side of Toyama. This charming area is known for its steep, winding streets lined with Edo and Taisho-era buildings. Throughout the city, you can also indulge in the local culinary scene, which is celebrated for its fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, including a variety of sushi and sashimi.
If you are interested in a guided tour of Toyama City's main sight including Toyama Castle, Ikedaya Traditional Medicine Shop, the Toyama Glass Museum and walking around Ecchu Yatsuo, check it out below!
Day 2 - Unazuki Onsen (Kurobe Gorge)
Unazuki Onsen is a traditional hot spring town famous for its high-quality, clear, alkaline waters, which are said to have skin-beautifying properties. You can enjoy these soothing waters in the many ryokan (traditional inns) or public bathhouses throughout the town. The area also has several free footbaths and scenic walking paths, like the Yamabiko Bridge Promenade, that offer beautiful views of the Kurobe River.
The town is also the starting point for the famous Kurobe Gorge Railway, a scenic trolley train that winds through one of Japan's deepest V-shaped gorges. This popular railway journey provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and dramatic river valleys. Additionally, you can visit local museums like the Selene Museum of Art, which showcases art inspired by the natural beauty of the gorge.
If you are interested in a guided tour of the town and translation for the announcements on the trolley train, join us! This tour starts from either Kanazawa Station or Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station so hop on a train to one of those station so you can begin your adventure!
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen
- Spots:
- KanazawaKurobe Gorge
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
Day 3 - Gokayama (Shirakawago)
Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with its main villages being Ainokura and Suganuma. The most popular activity is simply to explore these quiet, traditional villages, taking in the stunning architecture and peaceful, rural atmosphere. From the designated viewpoints, you can capture breathtaking panoramic photos of the thatched-roof houses nestled in the surrounding mountains.
Beyond sightseeing, Gokayama offers opportunities to immerse yourself in traditional local culture. Many of the historic houses have been converted into museums where you can learn about the area's history, from silkworm farming to gunpowder production. Visitors can also participate in hands-on workshops to try traditional crafts like washi paper-making or experience a unique overnight stay at one of the gassho-zukuri farmhouses, complete with local cuisine.
Gokayama can be hard to get to, so a tour can sometimes be the best choice! Combine Gokayama and a Japanese paper-making experience with the wood carving town of Inami and the other famous UNESCO site of Shirakawago, all in one day. Check it out below!
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Other Places Around Toyama
Takaoka offers visitors a chance to see two of Japan's most significant cultural treasures: the impressive Takaoka Daibutsu and the beautifully preserved Zuiryuji Temple. You can also explore the historic Kanayamachi district, which is the birthplace of the city's renowned copperware and casting industry.
The Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route in the fall is a breathtaking journey through the mountains, famous for its spectacular autumn foliage that descends from the peaks to the valleys over several weeks. At the highest point of Murodo, you can hike around the beautiful Mikurigaike Pond, all while being surrounded by the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the autumn landscape before the route closes for winter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to see autumn leaves near Toyama?
Most locations peak from early-November to early December, but highland areas like Murodo and Midagahara start in September. The Kurobe Gorge begins turn in October.
Are there any good day trips to see fall leaves?
Yes! Destinations like Tateyama, Gokayama, and the Kurobe Gorge can be visited on a 1-day tour or private charter from Kanazawa. Choose from guided group tours, private day trips, or custom charters depending on your preference and group size. Check out our Kanazawa Tour page for a full list of tours in the region!
Do the colors peak at the same time in all areas around Toyama?
Not necessarily. Autumn colors are typically influenced by weather, longitude, and elevation. Higher elevation areas like the Tateyama and the Kurobe Gorge tend to see peak foliage earlier (late September to the middle of October), while lower urban areas in Toyama itself usually peak in early to mid November.
What should I wear or bring for a comfortable autumn foliage trip in the area?
Wear layered clothing, including a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. In November, temperatures tend to hover near 15°C in the daytime, cooling down to around 5°C at night. An umbrella is also recommended as the region receives decent rainfall in November especially the last two weeks, averaging around 200 mm for the month. And as always, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and possibly a thermos or snacks are also recommended.
How can I visit off the beaten path locations for autumn leaves near Toyama and Kanazawa?
Looking for a private tour or charter to any of the locations listed in this article? We've got you covered.
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We offer customizable charters for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups up to 45 people. Relax with door-to-door service to any destination listed here. Click the button below to browse some of our popular charters and to inquire directly.
PRIVATE TOURS
Create your own itinerary or modify one of ours. Enjoy a fully guided experience without the stress of public transit or group schedules.
