Spring in Toyama Prefecture is a spectacle of nature's artistry. Witness the awe-inspiring snow walls of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of millions of tulips at the Tonami Tulip Fair, and embark on a picturesque train ride through the revitalized Kurobe Gorge. Discover the delicate beauty of Toyama City's cherry blossoms and the rare, colorful harmony of the "Spring Quartet" where cherry trees, canola flowers, and tulips bloom in unison.
1 - Toyama City Cherry Blossoms
Toyama City in spring is a delight, especially for those seeking a tranquil urban escape. The city's main attraction is the Matsukawa River, which is famously lined with hundreds of cherry trees, offering visitors the chance to enjoy blossoms from a riverside promenade or a scenic boat cruise. Another notable spot is Fugan Canal Kansui Park, where cherry trees frame the picturesque canal and the iconic Tenmon Bridge. Visitors can also explore the historic Toyama Castle Ruins Park, where cherry blossoms create a beautiful reflection in the surrounding moat.
If you are interested in seeing Toyama City and the beautiful cherry blossoms, join us for a tour! Walk around the castle, glass museum and the traditional town of Ecchu Yatsuo. Check it out below!
2 - Tateyama Snow Walls
The Tateyama Snow Walls, or "Yuki-no-Otani," are a spectacular spring attraction located along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Following the route's reopening in mid-April, visitors can walk through a massive corridor where snow can reach heights of up to 20 meters. This unique and unforgettable experience is a must-see for anyone traveling to Toyama Prefecture during the spring season.
It can be a bit difficult to reach the top of the mountain to see the Snow Walls so joining a tour can be a great choice. Stop at a picturesque shrine in Ashikuraji before heading up and walking around the snowy Murodo plateau. The tours go from May 1st until June 15th. Check it out below!
Recommended
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa or Toyama: Tateyama Alpine Route Snow Wall and Mysterious Valley
3 - Tulip Festival
The Tonami Tulip Fair is a vibrant spring event that showcases Toyama's status as Japan's largest producer of tulip bulbs. Held from late April to early May, the festival features over three million tulips of hundreds of different varieties, arranged in breathtaking patterns and displays. Visitors can explore the colorful fields, enjoy themed exhibits, and even see a massive tulip-shaped fountain, making it a spectacular visual feast.
If you want to see the tulips as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site nearby, join us for a tour! Stop in the morning at the tulip festival and then the beautiful rural village in Gokayama. It is only available in the spring. Check it up below!
New Tour
[Spring Only] 1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Tonami's Terrific Tulips and the UNESCO site of Gokayama
4 - The Spring Quartet
The "Spring Quartet" is a unique and stunning natural phenomenon that can be seen in Asahi Town, Toyama, typically in mid-April. It features a rare harmony of four different elements: cherry blossoms in full bloom, fields of bright yellow canola flowers, red tulips, and the majestic snow-capped North Japan Alps in the background. This picturesque scene is a photographer's dream and a perfect representation of Toyama's beautiful and diverse spring landscape.
This beautiful sight is quite difficult to reach by public transportation so join us! See the flowers as well as other cherry blossoms and a mountain temple, Oiwasan-Nisseki, on this spring only tour. Check it out below!
5 - Kurobe Gorge
The Kurobe Gorge Railway reopens in mid-to-late April, offering a breathtaking spring journey through one of Japan's deepest ravines. Visitors can take an open-air train from Unazuki Onsen, a perfect starting point, to witness the lush, revitalized greenery of the gorge and the dramatic mountain scenery. The area provides an ideal combination of scenic beauty and the relaxing warmth of an onsen town to welcome the new season.
Trying to reach the gorge? Join us for a tour that gets the best pictures before riding the trolley train through the gorge and get even more! The tour usually runs from mid-May to Novemeber 30. Check it out below!
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen
- Spots:
- KanazawaKurobe Gorge
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in spring?
It is quite pleasant but the temperatures can swing from snow to quite hot. If you are going into the mountains, make sure to bring a jacket!
When do the cherry blossoms usually start?
Toyama City usually starts around the first week of April and the mountain areas begin mid to late April.
What else is there in Toyama Prefecture?
Our "Things to Do in Toyama" page has everything you need to get started! The city is located conveniently between the mountains and the sea, so there is easy access to either scenery. If you're looking for a skiing, check out our "Best Ski Resorts in Toyama" or if onsen are more your things check out "Best Onsen Hot Springs in Toyama!" Nature types might be interested in our "Best Spots for Autumn Leaves Around Toyama" guide for fall foliage photography! If it's not just museums, but shrines and temples that you're interested in, you should have a look at our "Best Goshuin near Toyama" to get more info about the red stamps that are growing in popularity as well as the general "Best Shrines and Temples in Toyama." Foodies can't miss out on our "Toyama's Famous Foods" guide - it'll help you learn more about the local food and where to eat it.
How can I visit off the beaten path locations for winter 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.
Final Tips for Visiting in Spring
- This is generally a high season for this region. Make sure to book things far in advance.
- Temperatures can swing wildly so be prepared for both winter and summer temperatures.
- The cherry blossoms can bloom up to two weeks before or after the "average opening date" so be prepared to change plans if that is the reason for your visit.
The destinations listed above offer something for everyone, from adventure seekers to families and history enthusiasts. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural splendor of spring near Toyama and Kanazawa.
