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HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Midagahara Wetlands
Superb views of vast wetlands spreading out along the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route
Toyama Prefecture
When visiting Toyama's Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, which is famous for the iconic snow walls near Murodo, don't miss the vast Midagahara Wetlands. Located at 1,600-2,100m above sea level, these expansive wetlands stretch 2km north to south and 4km east to west and feature several hiking trails to observe diverse alpine flora and fauna that change throughout the seasons.
Shaped by volcanic activity from the Tateyama mountains, the plateau of Midagahara developed over millennia to become today's marshland filled with highland plants. In 2012, its rich ecosystem was recognized by the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. Nearly 3,000 small ponds dot the wetlands, reflecting the natural scenery like a mirror and creating a unique sight.
The most beautiful season of Midagahara is from late September to early October, when the plants change color for the autumn season. The 80,000 square meters of the plateau turn red, orange, and yellow, offering a completely different scenery from spring and summer. The fresh snow on top of the Tateyama mountains makes a beautiful contrast with the autumn leaves.
If you are lucky, you will be able to enjoy the sea of clouds, a rare phenomenon that only occurs in specific weather conditions.
How to get there
From Dentetsu-Toyama Station (next to the JR Toyama Station on Hokuriku Shinkansen) take a train to Tateyama Station (approximately 1 hour), then switch to cable car and highland bus (40 minutes), and disembark at Midagahara bus stop.
Midagahara, Ashikraji, Tateyama-machi, Nakanikawa-gun, Toyama-ken
