Toyama in summer offers a vibrant mix of urban energy and scenic coastal beauty. Within Toyama City, visitors can immerse themselves in the festive spirit of local events, such as the famous Owara Kaze no Bon Festival, held in the town of Ecchu Yatsuo, which fills the air with melancholic folk songs and graceful dances. Just a short trip from the city, the Amaharashi Coast provides a completely different experience. In summer, the coastline is a popular spot for swimming, with its gentle, clear waters and pebbled beaches, offering a refreshing escape and a picturesque view of the sea under the summer sun.
Summer is the ideal time to explore Toyama's dramatic mountain landscapes. The iconic Kurobe Gorge Railway operates its scenic trolley train, taking you deep into the verdant ravines on open-air carriages for an up-close look at the lush greenery, waterfalls, and towering cliffs. For those seeking adventure, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is at its best in the summer. With the snow walls melted, the route becomes a hiker's paradise, offering stunning high-altitude trekking trails with panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps and pristine alpine lakes.
For a taste of traditional culture, a visit to Inami provides a serene contrast to the rugged mountains. Known as Japan's premier wood-carving town, Inami's streets are filled with the scent of camphor and the rhythmic sounds of chisels. Visitors can walk along the historic main street and observe master artisans at work on their intricate carvings. This unique cultural experience, combined with the urban charm of Toyama City and the natural wonders of the mountains and coast, makes Toyama a perfect summer destination.
1 - Amaharashi
Ideal for: Bento lunch, quiet mountains, local trains
In summer, the Amaharashi Coast reveals a different, yet equally captivating, side of its renowned beauty, presenting a lush, verdant backdrop to the serene Toyama Bay. The coastal landscape is a striking mix of green pines, white sand, and the deep blue of the sea, all framed by the towering mountains covered in summer foliage. The iconic Onnaiwa (Woman Rock) stands prominently against this vibrant, sunny scenery.
The warmer weather makes Amaharashi a perfect destination for enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. The pebble beaches are popular spots for visitors to relax and take a swim in the calm, gentle waters of the bay. The area’s historical ties to the poet Ōtomo no Yakamochi also make it a place for cultural reflection, offering a deeper connection to the landscape.
For More Information: see Amaharashi Coast
For a guided tour of and the Amaharashi Coast and the Shogawa River: join our 1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Beautiful Amaharashi, A Big Buddha and the Shogawa Valley River Cruise. This one-day tour from Kanazawa takes you to the beautiful Amaharashi Coast to see the snow-capped mountains, followed by a visit to the historic city of Takaoka to see the Big Buddha. The tour concludes with a scenic river cruise through the stunning Shogawa Valley, offering a taste of both coastal and mountain views.
2 - Kurobe Gorge
Ideal for: Train enthusiasts, Foot bath lovers, pleasant walks
The Kurobe Gorge, one of Japan's most dramatic ravines, is a breathtaking natural wonder with its journey beginning at the gateway hot spring town of Unazuki Onsen. From there, the iconic Kurobe Gorge Railway winds its way deep into the gorge on a narrow-gauge track, providing a thrilling ride through a landscape that is otherwise inaccessible. The train's route clings to the sides of cliffs and crosses over dizzying ravines.
The trolley train journey offers passengers unparalleled views of the gorge's rugged beauty, from lush forests and waterfalls to steep, rocky walls. As the train travels through a series of tunnels and over bright red bridges, the scenery changes with the seasons. The journey always leads back to Unazuki Onsen, where you can complete the day with a relaxing soak in the famously clear, smooth waters while gazing out at the mountains.
For More Information: see Unazuki Onsen
For a guided tour of Unazuki Onsen and the Kurobe Gorge: join our 1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen. This tour will take you deep into the breathtaking Kurobe Gorge aboard the iconic trolley train, bringing you up close to dramatic ravines. You'll still have plenty of time to relax at Unazuki Onsen where you'll have chance to soak your feet after a long day and gaze at the surrounding mountain scenery
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Kurobe Gorge and Unazuki Onsen
- Spots:
- KanazawaKurobe Gorge
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
3 - Tateyama
Ideal for: hikes, nature, bento lunches
The Toyama side of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is at its most vibrant during the summer, when the entire landscape is a lush, green wonderland. The journey begins at Tateyama Station and ascends using a series of unique transports, including a cable car and a scenic highland bus. After the massive snow walls melt, the route reveals an incredible panorama of forests and high-altitude flora. This season offers clear views of stunning natural features like the Shomyo Falls, Japan's tallest waterfall, which cascades powerfully from the mountainside and is a breathtaking sight from the bus.
Summer is the ideal time to fully explore the main hub of the route, Murodo, which transforms from a snowy corridor into a hiker's paradise. The famous snow walls are gone, replaced by a vast landscape crisscrossed with walking trails. Visitors can hike to the serene, cobalt-blue Mikurigaike Pond and walk among the blooming alpine flowers that carpet the area. With the mountain peaks fully accessible, summer is the perfect season for trekking and appreciating the raw, untamed beauty of the Northern Japan Alps.
For More Information: see Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
For a guided tour of the Alpine Route: join our [Summer/Fall Only] From Kanazawa: Shomyo Falls, Light Alpine Hikes and Tateyama Mountain's Majesty. This tour will take you to the Tateyama mountains, including a hike to the majestic Shomyo Falls. After ascending the mountain, participants will enjoy a picnic lunch and a light hike in the Midagahara Wetlands. Finally you will reach the top with an opportunity for free time to explore the popular hiking trails and volcanic landscape around Murodo. Check it out below!
[Summer/Fall Only] From Kanazawa: Shomyo Falls, Light Alpine Hikes and Tateyama Mountain's Majesty
- Spots:
- KanazawaAlpine Route
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
4 - Inami
Ideal for: quiet town, woodcarvers, local shopping
Inami is a town renowned throughout Japan as a living museum of traditional wood carving. The town's deep-rooted craft originated in the 18th century, when master artisans from Kyoto came to rebuild the magnificent Zuisen-ji Temple. Today, the town's main street is lined with over a hundred workshops where the rhythmic sound of chisels and mallets is a constant presence.
A visit to Inami is a journey into a world of intricate artistry. The grand Zuisenji Temple is a masterpiece of the craft, with its gates and halls adorned with elaborate carvings. Beyond the temple, you can walk through the town and find elaborate sculptures on building facades, signboards, and even a series of charming wooden cats.
For More Information: see Inami
For a guided tour to Inami and the UNESCO sites of Gokayama and Shirakawa-go: join our 1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village. This tour will take you deep into the heart of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and rural life, bringing you up close to masterful woodcarvings and UNESCO World Heritage Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. You'll still have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the charming rural atmosphere, where you can wander through the woodcarving workshops of Inami and the historic lanes of Ainokura, and gaze at the rustic beauty of the surrounding mountains and traditional village life in Shirakawago.
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
5 - Toyama City
Ideal for: quiet towns, museums, local history
Summer in Toyama City offers a great opportunity to explore its modern urban spaces and rich cultural institutions. The city is home to several world-class museums that provide a perfect escape from the summer heat. The Toyama Glass Art Museum, housed in a striking architectural building, showcases a magnificent collection and is a must-see. Nearby, the Toyama City Museum of History, located within the grounds of Toyama Castle, provides a fascinating look into the area's past. This season is also the ideal time to enjoy fresh white shrimp (shiroebi), a local delicacy found in restaurants throughout the city.
The most famous cultural event of the season is the Owara Kaze no Bon Festival, which takes place in the Etchu Yatsuo district of Toyama City. Held over three days in early September, the festival is a mesmerizing experience characterized by its haunting folk melodies and graceful dancing. Visitors come from all over Japan to watch the performers, wearing distinctive wide-brimmed hats, dance through the beautifully preserved, narrow streets. This unique festival truly defines the summer experience in Toyama.
For More Information: see Ecchu Yatsuo
For a guided tour to around Toyama: join our 1 Day Tour in Toyama: Stunning Streetscapes, Beautiful Views and Local History. This tour is a one-day walking tour of Toyama City, which includes visits to the Toyama City Hall Observatory, Toyama Castle, the Ikedaya Medicine Shop, and the Toyama Glass Museum. The tour also includes a train trip to the town of Ecchu Yatsuo to explore its historic streets and learn about its festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot does it get in the summer?
From the end of June to September the highs for the day are generally at or above 30C (86F) and can easily reach 37C (99F).
What should I wear or bring for a comfortable summer trip in the area?
Make sure to bring clothing appropriate for the heat and humidity. Breathable clothes are a must. In Japan they also sell a number of wipes, portable fans, sprays and sunscreen that you can use to beat the heat.
Do you have any other information about Toyama and its surroundings?
Yes! 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!
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.
PRIVATE CHARTERS
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 Summer
- This is generally a low season but be careful to check for festivals because the hotels will fill up fast.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat and water when out and about. Heatstroke can affect anyone!
- Consider doing a half day outside on a hike/nature walk and a half day doing local museums. This will help you stay out of the heat.
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 summer near Toyama and Kanazawa.
