Tucked deep within the dramatic landscapes of the Northern Japan Alps, the Kurobe Gorge is a hidden sanctuary of raw natural beauty—regarded as one of the deepest and most majestic ravines in all of Japan. Towering cliffs plunge into emerald-green waters, dense cedar forests whisper with the wind, and steamy hot springs bubble beside ancient rocks. This untouched wilderness invites you to step into a postcard-perfect scene that changes color and character with each season.

Among the gorge’s most iconic highlights is the magnificent Yamabiko Bridge—a brilliant red arch stretching 166 meters across the Kurobe River. As the longest bridge in the gorge, it’s not only a feat of engineering but also a timeless symbol of harmony between man and mountain. The vivid crimson of the bridge creates a stunning contrast against the emerald forests of spring and summer, the golden blaze of autumn leaves, and the snow-kissed cliffs of early winter. Whether shrouded in morning mist or glowing under the late-afternoon sun, Yamabiko Bridge is a photographer’s dream and a soul-stirring sight to behold.

Panoramic views of the bridge await at several lookout points, including the hillside Yamabiko Observation Platform, the riverside Unazuki Station viewpoint, and the charming Kyū-Yamabiko pedestrian bridge—a repurposed railway span perfect for slow strolls and unforgettable snapshots. Watching the classic open-air train glide across Yamabiko Bridge, framed by dramatic mountains and cascading foliage, feels like witnessing a scene from a timeless Japanese painting.

Enhancing the experience, the nostalgic Kurobe Gorge Railway offers one of Japan’s most scenic train rides. Originally built to aid the construction of the Kurobe Dam, today this narrow-gauge train carries passengers on an 80-minute journey through 20 kilometers of dramatic gorge terrain, over 20 bridges and through more than 40 tunnels. The gentle rhythm of the train, the crisp mountain air, and the deep, echoing whistle that reverberates through the valley—all combine to create a truly magical, almost meditative, travel experience.

At every stop along the route, you'll find access to quiet walking trails, suspension bridges, natural hot springs, and peaceful riverbanks—ideal for those seeking to reconnect with nature or capture the perfect moment on camera.

Important: Kurobe Gorge is not the same as the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, though they’re both in Toyama. Access is from different locations.

From Tokyo:

• Ride the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen Station (~2.5 hours, ~¥12,000, 1 train/hour, JR Pass covered).

• Walk to Shin-Kurobe Station and take the Toyama Chiho Railway to Unazuki Onsen Station (~25 minutes, ¥640, not JR Pass covered).

• Walk a short distance to Unazuki Station, the starting point for the Kurobe Gorge Railway.

From Kyoto / Osaka:

• Take the JR Thunderbird Limited Express to Kanazawa, then transfer to the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kurobe-Unazuki Onsen (~3 hours total, ~¥9,500, JR Pass fully covered).

• From Shin-Kurobe Station, ride the Toyama Chiho Railway to Unazuki Onsen Station (~25 minutes, ¥640).

• The Kurobe Gorge Railway starts just a few minutes away at Unazuki Station.

• Start your trip early to fully enjoy the train ride and scenic viewpoints.

• Check weather forecasts—rain or snow may affect train operation.

• No advance ticket required for the train, but allow time for queues during peak seasons.

• Don’t confuse Kurobe Gorge with the nearby Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route—they are accessed differently.

Admission Fee:

• Yamabiko Bridge: Free
  Kurobe Gorge Railway: Fare varies by distance (Unazuki–Keyakidaira round trip approx. ¥3,960)

Opening Time:

• Accessible for walking until sunset
  Kurobe Gorge Railway operates from late April to mid-November (seasonal schedule)