When I decided to visit Hokuriku for the first time, one place I knew I had to include in my itinerary was the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
This scenic route stretches from Tateyama in Toyama Prefecture to Kurobe (technically ending at Ogizawa in Nagano Prefecture) and involves transfers between trolley buses, cable cars, and ropeways, offering stunning mountain views along the way. You can also traverse it in the opposite direction, from Nagano to Toyama.
The highlight of the Alpine Route is undoubtedly the Kurobe Dam.
Built in 1963, over 50 years ago, this is Japan’s largest dam. Its construction was a monumental feat, marked by a difficult process that claimed 171 lives and was later featured on the documentary series *Project X*.
I visited in early October when the autumn foliage was just beginning. The combination of blue skies, colorful leaves, the emerald-green Kurobe Lake, and the dramatic water discharge from the dam—complete with a rainbow—made for an unforgettable view.
Kurobe Dam, Located Near Nagano on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Before heading out, I didn’t know much about the route, so I did some homework using the following website:
The fare table at Tateyama Station provided helpful guidance. My route involved staying at Omachi Onsen in Nagano after reaching Ogizawa Station and returning the next day, so I purchased a round-trip ticket to Ogizawa for ¥13,360. Quite pricey!(as of 2015)
The journey to Kurobe Dam required multiple transfers—cable car, highland bus, trolley bus, ropeway, cable car again, and another trolley bus—taking about three hours. By the time I arrived, it was already 5 PM, close to the last bus departure to Ogizawa. The water discharge had also stopped for the day.
Even so, I was awestruck by the sheer scale of the dam. However, this was just a preview, and I looked forward to exploring more the next day.
The next morning, I took a route bus from Omachi Onsen to Ogizawa Station, a one-way fare of ¥1,010(as of 2015).
Ogizawa Station, situated at an altitude of 1,433 meters, offered beautiful views even at this starting point.
With my round-trip ticket already purchased, I was all set to head to Kurobe Dam without the need to buy additional tickets.
The Kansai Electric Power trolley bus took me through a tunnel to Kurobe Dam Station in just 16 minutes. The morning crowd was significant, even on a weekday.
And finally, I arrived at Kurobe Dam Station.
The Observation Deck for a Panoramic View of Kurobe Dam
Upon arriving, a staircase leading to the dam’s observation deck immediately caught my eye. It’s said to have 220 steps. Let’s go!
Most visitors were older, likely in their 50s or beyond, but they climbed the long stairs with remarkable vigor.
As I ascended, the view opened up, revealing breathtaking scenery all around.
And, of course, Kurobe Dam. From late June to October 15, the dam releases water as part of its sightseeing discharge. The sheer volume of water is awe-inspiring.
To think this was constructed over 50 years ago is astonishing.
As the altitude increases, the colors of the surrounding mountains deepen, showcasing the beauty of autumn around Kurobe Dam.
A stunning rainbow even appeared, adding to the already perfect scenery. What more could you ask for?
The vibrant green of Kurobe Lake stands out beautifully. It’s incredible to think that this enormous body of water is entirely man-made.
Experience the Power of the Dam Up Close at the New Observation Plaza
Descending from the main observation deck, there’s another plaza offering a different perspective on the surroundings.
The plaza includes a free indoor rest area where visitors can enjoy the scenery in comfort.
As you descend the stairs, the angle of the view gradually shifts, offering fresh perspectives of the dam, the surrounding mountains, and the lake.
The lower you go, the more you can appreciate the dam’s sheer scale and engineering marvel.
At the new observation plaza, you can get much closer to the dam itself. While the higher observation deck offers a better balance of scenery, the sheer force of the water discharge is best appreciated up close.
The water bursts out with tremendous energy.
The view of the surrounding mountains from below is equally captivating.
There’s also an exhibit showcasing the history and achievements of the workers who built Kurobe Dam.
Walking from Kurobe Dam Station to Kurobe Lake Station
After taking in the views, I began the 15-minute walk from Kurobe Dam Station to Kurobe Lake Station, taking my time to enjoy the scenery.
Starting from the rest house near Kurobe Dam Station, where you can shop for souvenirs or grab a meal.
There’s even a unique local soda named *Hasaider*, inspired by the fractured zone that caused water to gush out during the dam’s construction, making it one of the project’s major challenges.
And let’s not forget the local mascot, *Kuronyon*!
Be sure to pay your respects at the memorial for the workers who lost their lives during construction.
There’s even a spot where you can take commemorative photos.
The path along the top of the dam provides a leisurely walk with beautiful views on both sides.
Midway, I stopped at the center of the dam to look down…
And got an exhilarating view of the powerful water discharge from above.
Conclusion
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and Kurobe Dam offer breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons.
If you ever have the chance to travel to the Hokuriku region, this is a destination you absolutely must visit. The views will leave you speechless!
