Alpine Route

The Alpine Route Japan is one of the most scenic mountain routes in the country, famous for its towering snow walls and breathtaking Tateyama Kurobe landscapes. Take delight in the breathtaking Tateyama–Kurobe Alpine Route. Enjoy views of snow‑capped mountains, towering 20‑meter snow walls, and the refreshing mountain breeze. Capture unforgettable moments at the famous Kurobe Dam and explore scenic walking trails along the Northern Japan Alps. This spectacular route connects Tateyama in the Hida Mountains with Omachi in Nagano, offering dramatic landscapes and panoramic views. Experience majestic snow corridors, lush forests, and Japan’s largest dam all in one unforgettable trip.

The Sights You’ll See in Alpine Route

Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is located in the Kantō region on the southeastern side of Honshu. It includes the Izu and Ogasawara Islands and is home to the Imperial Palace and the Japanese Imperial Family. The city is a major cultural, political, and economic center, formed in 1943 through the merger of Tokyo Prefecture and the City of Tokyo.

The Tokyo Tower

Standing at 333 meters, Tokyo Tower is 13 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Completed in 1958, it symbolizes Japan’s post‑war rebirth and serves as a broadcast tower and major tourist attraction.

Happo-en (Tea Ceremony)

Happo-en features the “garden of eight views,” a beautifully preserved Edo‑period landscape. Here, guests can observe or experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Imperial Palace Plaza

This historic site sits on the former grounds of Edo Castle. Surrounded by stone walls and moats, the plaza is a short walk from Tokyo Station. Visitors can explore the serene East Garden.

Sumida River Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing ride beneath 12 bridges along the Sumida River, traveling from Hinode Pier to Azumabashi while admiring Tokyo’s skyline.

Asakusa Sightseeing

Asakusa preserves Tokyo’s “shitamachi” or old town atmosphere. Its highlight, Senso‑ji Temple, is one of the city’s most beloved cultural landmarks.

Nakamise Shopping Street

Stretching 250 meters from Kaminarimon Gate to Senso‑ji Temple, Nakamise is lined with over 50 shops selling snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.

Ginza

Ginza is Tokyo’s most luxurious district. It features high‑end shops, modern architecture, and illuminated streets.

Nagoya

Nagoya is the largest city in the Chūbu region and Japan’s third‑largest incorporated city. It is a major port city and a significant commercial hub located on the Pacific coast.

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa‑go and Gokayama are UNESCO World Heritage sites famous for their gassho‑zukuri houses, built with steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. Some farmhouses are over 250 years old.

Hida Takayama

Hida‑Takayama is known for its beautifully preserved Edo‑period streets and traditional atmosphere. The old town offers charming shops, wooden buildings, and cultural heritage sites.

Toyama

Toyama, the capital of Toyama Prefecture, sits along the Sea of Japan. It is known for scenic views, mountain ranges, and a peaceful city atmosphere.

Toyama Dai-Ichi Hotel

This hotel is surrounded by greenery and offers easy access to Toyama’s shopping areas and business district. It features comfortable rooms perfect for a relaxing stay.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

This spectacular route crosses the Northern Japan Alps using cable cars, ropeways, and buses. Built in 1971, it connects Toyama City with Omachi Town. The main attraction is the snow corridor, where walls of snow reach up to 20 meters in spring.

Tateyama

The Tateyama Cable Car climbs steep mountain slopes and offers fantastic seasonal views, especially during autumn.

Bijodaira

Bijodaira is known for its ancient beech forests, cedar trees, and wildlife. It is a popular spot for nature walks and birdwatching.

Murodo

Located at 2,400 meters above sea level, Murodo is the highest point of the Alpine Route. It features hiking trails, snow corridors, and stunning mountain landscapes.

Daikanbo to Kurobedaira

This ropeway stretches 1,710 meters and offers panoramic views with a smooth, comfortable ride.

Kurobe Dam

Standing 186 meters tall, Kurobe Dam is Japan’s tallest and a major highlight of the route. Water discharges from late June to mid‑October create dramatic scenes. The dam powers the Kansai region and attracts visitors for its history and scenic surroundings.

Kyoto

Kyoto, once Japan’s imperial capital for over 1,000 years, is filled with historic temples, gardens, and traditional streets.

Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle stands as a UNESCO treasure showcasing Kyoto’s rich samurai heritage.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkaku‑ji dazzles with its gold‑leaf exterior and serene mirror‑like pond.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

The palace preserves classical Japanese architecture and the ambiance of ancient imperial life.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

A shrine dedicated to the God of scholarship, famous for plum blossoms and autumn colors.

Nara Park & Todai-ji Temple

Todai‑ji is one of the world’s largest wooden buildings and home to the Great Buddha.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a sacred site known for its lantern-lined paths and deer messengers.