Hakuba Goryu Northern Alps Winter Snow Peaks

Host of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympic downhill and ski jump competitions. Reaching over 1,831m elevation in the Northern Japanese Alps, Happo-One is internationally renowned for dry powder snow, 8,000m continuous cruising trails, and staggering alpine vistas.

Japan’s tallest dam at 186 metres, reached as part of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Observation decks reveal the immense arch structure, Lake Kurobe and seasonal sightseeing discharge. There is no direct private-car access.

A roughly 90-kilometre mountain crossing through the Northern Alps using trains, cable cars, buses and ropeways. At Murodo, the spring Snow Wall walk passes between snow banks that can reach around 20 metres. Private cars cannot cross the route and winter closes the full connection.

One of Japan’s most powerful and awe-inspiring sacred forest approaches. A 2-kilometer spiritual trail lined with more than 300 towering giant cryptomeria cedars planted over 400 years ago leads beneath the Zuishinmon gate toward the foot of the jagged cliffs of Mount Togakushi.

A deep V-shaped gorge explored by the open-sided Kurobe Gorge trolley train from Unazuki. The line follows the river past bridges, cliffs, forests and secluded hot springs. It normally operates from late April into late November, with the reachable terminus depending on restoration and operating status.

Toyama’s largest hot-spring town and the gateway to Kurobe Gorge Railway. Clear mildly alkaline water feeds ryokan, a public bath and free footbaths, while compact streets offer mountain and river views.

More than 1,500 small paddies spread across the slope above the Zenkoji Plain. Flooded fields reflect the sky and moon in late spring, while harvested rice and broad basin views shape the autumn landscape.