Kurobe Gorge is one of Japan's three major canyons, and it has the deepest V-shaped gorge in Japan. In winter, the area is covered with deep snow, but from mid-April to the end of November, when the trolley trains are in operation, it is renowned as a popular tourist spot that attracts many visitors.

The best time to visit is fall, when the canyon becomes filled with the bright reds and yellows of fall foliage. The best way to enjoy this spectacular view, which usually begins in mid-October, is to take the Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley trains.

Visitors can take in the fiery fall colors.

The view from the trolley trains showcases the contrast between the emerald-green river and the many hues of the mountains. Another charm is the refreshing ride through the mountains in an open coach with no windows or walls. It's usually chilly in Kurobe Gorge in fall (around 10 degrees Celsius), so dress warmly!

The view from the Shinyamabiko Bridge, the first bridge you cross after leaving Unazuki Station, is one of the highlights.

There are also hiking trails and hot springs around each trolley train station. For example, the area around the first station, Unazuki Station, is home to many inns and hot springs. Upon returning from viewing the fall foliage, ease the fatigue of your trip by relaxing in the hot springs which are famously good for the skin.

Find your favorite photo spot and make it a memory of your trip to Japan.

Kurobe Gorge can be reached in about two and a half hours by taking the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station.

Travelling by trolley train across railroad bridges provides thrilling views.

The official website of the Kurobe Gorge trolley trains is available in multiple languages and accepts online ticket reservations, available from the URL below. This fall, why not find your special moment in Kurobe Gorge, where you can fully take in the beauty of fall colors?

*Due to the impact of the Noto Peninsula earthquake that occurred in January 2024, the railway is currently operating only between Unazuki Station and Nekomata Station. Please check before visiting.

■DATA ▼Kurobe Gorge Trolley Trains Ticket prices: [April 19 – April 24] Unazuki – Sasadaira (round trip) Adults: 1,660 yen / Children: 840 yen [April 25 – November 30] Unazuki – Nekomata (round trip) Adults: 2,820 yen / Children: 1,420 yen ▼Unazuki Station Address: 11 Kurobe Kyokoku-guchi, Kurobe-shi, Toyama Closure: No service from December to mid-April *Subject to change depending on snowfall *Please check the official website for the timetables and the stations in operation as they are subject to change depending on the time of the year. Official website: https://www.kurotetu.co.jp/en/

(Information as of September 2024.)

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