Kurobe Gorge
Map
Kurobe Gorge is a gorge formed by the Kurobe River, flowing between the Tateyama range and the Ushirotateyama range in Toyama Prefecture, deeply eroding granite bedrock. Often called the 'deepest gorge in Japan,' it is counted among Japan's three great gorges. It was designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Special Natural Monument in 1964 and is part of Chubu-Sangaku National Park.
Nature Info
- Type
- Canyon
- Elevation
- Along the Kurobe River; elevation difference of about 375m from Unazuki (224m) to Keyakidaira (599m)
- Access
- About 1 hour 20 minutes by Toyama Chihotetsudo from Toyama Station to Unazuki-Onsen Station, then about 5 minutes on foot to Unazuki Station to board the Torokko train
History & Origins
In the Edo period, the Kaga domain restricted entry for the purpose of protecting the forest. After the Meiji era it was opened to the public, and in 1920 a horizontal walking path was opened for hydroelectric development. Many mountaineers, including Kanmuri Matsujiro, explored it, and the gorge's appeal spread so widely that he was called the 'father of Kurobe.'
Highlights
A trolley train runs about 20.1 km from Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station, letting you enjoy sheer cliffs, blue mountain streams, and many hot spring areas from the window. At Keyakidaira there is a walking route to Meiken Onsen and a promenade where you can observe the natural beauty of the rocks up close.
Visitor Guide
The Kurobe Gorge Railway (trolley train) operates only during its spring-to-autumn operating season. Please note that due to the effects of the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, service may be partial between Unazuki and Nekomata, so checking operating status in advance is recommended.
Best Season
The fresh green of May to June and October, when autumn leaves color the gorge, are especially beautiful.
Related Spots
All →Shikoku / Kochi
Ryugado Cave
Ryugado is one of Japan's Three Great Limestone Caves, in Kami, Kochi Prefecture…
Hokuriku / Fukui
Tojinbo
Tojinbo is a sea cliff facing the Sea of Japan in Ajima, Mikuni-cho, Sakai, Fuku…
Tohoku / Miyagi
Naruko Gorge
Naruko Gorge is a gorge formed by the Otani River in the Naruko Onsen area of Os…
Koshinetsu / Nagano
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park, in Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, i…