A Singularly Scenic Expedition Across the Japan Alps

Massive snow walls, stunning autumn colors: The Tateyama Alpine Route is an ecotourist’s dream

Spanning more than 30 kilometers with an elevation change of 2,000 meters, the Tateyama Alpine Route through Chuūbu-Sangaku National Park astounds nature lovers with some of Japan’s most dynamic mountain views and autumn colors.

Your journey begins at Tateyama Station with a steep cable car climb to a virgin forest of mighty ancient cedars and beech. Then comes a winding bus ride featuring massive snow corridors up to 17 meters and other stunning vistas at every turn. Next, you’ll board an electric trolley bus and tunnel through the heart of sacred Mount Tateyama, emerging to one of the world’s most unique ropeways boasting incredible panoramic views of the steep Kurobe Gorge. You’ll then ride an underground cable car to Kurobe Dam, the highest arched dam in Japan, and see beautiful mountain scenery reflected in the waters of Lake Kurobe. Finally, ride an electric bus to Ougisawa, on the Nagano side.

With hot spring resorts, hiking routes, campgrounds, and cultural and historic sites along the way, there’s truly something for everyone—and snack bars at each station will ensure that you don’t go hungry.

The entire trip takes 6–7 hours one way and is best enjoyed from April to June, when the snow walls are at their highest.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route