ToyamaTravel

Unazuki Station, Kurobe Gorge Railway (黒部峡谷鉄道宇奈月駅)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: Take a commemorative photo at the hot-spring fountain in front of the station and start the trip feeling like you're in a hot-spring town

About 10 min from the previous stop

About 110 min here

Next stop: Arrive at the remote terminus station, view the vermilion Okane Bridge, and have lunch at the station restaurant

About this spot

The starting station for the trolley train that runs through Kurobe Gorge (黒部峡谷), one of Japan's deepest V-shaped gorges. Once you board the windowless, open-air carriage, you'll cross a red iron bridge soon after departure, with the emerald-green Kurobe River (黒部川) spreading out below. Cheers go up each time the train passes through another tunnel or over another bridge, an experience irresistible for train-loving kids. The railway was originally laid to carry materials for power development, and it's also fascinating to ride while reflecting on that history.

Tips

Seats are reserved, and they can sell out during busy seasons, so advance booking is recommended. The open-air cars get quite windy while moving, keeping things cool even in summer, so bring something to wear over your clothes. The operating period and route vary by season and weather, so check the official website for the latest information before heading out.