Kurobe Gorge Trolley Car, the deepest V-shaped gorge in Japan that can only be reached by trolley

  • Toyama
  • Sightseeing
Kurobe Gorge Trolley Car Photo courtesy of Kurobe Gorge Railway Co.

About Kurobe Gorge Railway

The Kurobe Gorge Railway runs through Kurobe Gorge, the deepest V-shaped gorge in Japan, which is carved deeply into the Northern Alps. Construction began in the Taisho era (1912-1926) as a railroad for transporting materials for power supply development, etc. In 1953, after receiving a license under the Regional Railway Law, the railroad began operating as a sightseeing train as well. Today, the trains are known by the nickname "Torokko Tram" and are used by many tourists, including those from overseas. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature in each of the four seasons from the windows of the train. The train is in operation as a sightseeing train from mid-April to the end of November.
Kurobe Gorge Trolley Car Photo courtesy of Kurobe Gorge Railway Co.

Attractions of Kurobe Gorge Railway

There are two types of coaches: open coaches with no windows for a sense of freedom, and relaxing coaches with windows for a comfortable seat (600 yen surcharge). The Kurobe Gorge Railway is a sight to behold in each of the four seasons: spring, when there is lingering snow near the mountain peaks and in the valley; summer, when the mountains are freshly green and beautiful; and autumn, when the mountains turn red and yellow with the changing of the leaves.
Kurobe Gorge Trolley Car Photo courtesy of Kurobe Gorge Railway Co.
Regular passenger car

Places to visit along the Kurobe Gorge Railway

There are many attractions along the Kurobe Gorge Railway. Here are some of them.
Kurobe River
The Kurobe River has a large volume of water throughout the four seasons because its basin is located in an area with heavy snowfall. It is also known for its clean water, and the groundwater in the spring area at the fan end of the Kurobe River has been selected as one of the "100 best waters in Japan. It is a beautiful river with an emerald green color.
Shin-Yamahiko Bridge and Yamahiko Bridge
The first crimson iron bridge you cross after leaving Unazuki Station is the Shin-Yamahiko Bridge. Next to it is the Yamahiko Bridge, a railroad bridge on which a trolley train once ran. It is said to have been named after the sound of the train as it echoed through the hot spring resort town.
● Lake Unazuki
The green of the lake reflecting the emerald green surface and the bright red of the lake bridge is beautiful enough to be captured in a photograph. Further upstream, there is a suspension bridge (monkey bridge) built so that monkeys can cross to the other side of the lake, and if you are lucky, you may be able to see them crossing!
Kuronagi Onsen *Cannot be seen from the train window
Get off at Kuronagi Station and walk about 600 meters down the mountain road to Kuronagi Onsen, the source of Unazuki Onsen. The spacious open-air bath is popular, and day-trip bathing is also available.
Gohiki Bridge
This blue railway bridge crosses immediately after exiting Kuroyanagi Station. The bridge, which spans the steepest valley along the railway line, is about 60 meters to the bottom of the Kuronagi River. There is also a classical waterway bridge in the immediate vicinity.
Rats Return Rock Wall
This is a 200-meter-high rock wall that rises up on the opposite bank of the Nekomata Station. It is said to have gotten its name from the fact that even a mouse chased by a cat cannot climb it.

There are many other places of interest along the Kurobe Gorge Railway line! Please visit and experience the spectacular scenery.
Yamahiko Bridge and Shin Yamahiko Bridge

A special experience only now!

The Kanetsuri Bridge was damaged by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024, and is now closed to traffic from Kanetsuri Station onward. Nekomata Station is the only station in Japan with the Chinese character for "cat" in its name. The station is for the exclusive use of workers, and is normally closed to the general public; however, passengers can get on and off at the station for a limited time until the entire line opens. Visitors can enjoy the view from the observatory, which offers a close-up look at the nature of the Kurobe Gorge, and take commemorative photos at the "cat" photo spot. Why not take this opportunity to visit?
Nekomata Station Photo Spot
Nekomata Station Observation platform
Kurobe Gorge Railway Trolley Car ≪Official Page≫.

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You can make your own original trip!

The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product available only on the web, allowing you to choose your train and accommodations freely and apply for them all at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! Enjoy your own personalized trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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