3 day itinerary for Tateyama Alpine Route

Itinerary

The Tateyama Alpine Route is a stunning journey through the Japanese Alps, and three days is a perfect amount of time to soak in the breathtaking scenery. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary for your adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Tateyama

Morning:

• Arrival in Tateyama: Start your day by arriving in Tateyama. If you’re coming from Tokyo or Nagoya, take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Toyama, then transfer to the Tateyama Line.
• Tateyama Station: Once you arrive, grab a quick breakfast at a local café. Try some regional specialties like “Tateyama rice” or a delicious onigiri (rice ball).

Midday:

• Tateyama Cable Car: Head to the Tateyama Cable Car for a scenic ride up to the first viewpoint. The views of the surrounding mountains are just breathtaking!
• Murodo: Once you reach Murodo, take some time to explore the area. You can hike around the Murodo plateau, where you’ll find beautiful alpine flowers in the summer and stunning snow landscapes in the winter.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Murodo: Enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the mountain huts. Don’t miss trying the local soba noodles!
• Tateyama Snow Corridor (if visiting in spring): If you’re visiting in late April to early June, walk along the famous Snow Corridor, where the snow walls can reach up to 20 meters high!

Evening:

• Stay Overnight in Murodo: Book a night at a mountain lodge or hotel in Murodo. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner and soak in an onsen (hot spring) if available. The starry sky at this altitude is simply magical!

## Day 2: Murodo to Kurobe Dam

Morning:

• Breakfast at the Lodge: Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast.
• Hiking or Exploring: Take a morning hike around Murodo. The scenery is stunning, and you might spot some wildlife!

Midday:

• Tateyama Ropeway: After your morning adventure, take the Tateyama Ropeway down to Daikanbo. The views from the ropeway are spectacular!
• Lunch at Daikanbo: Grab a quick lunch at the café here, and don’t forget to take in the panoramic views.

Afternoon:

• Kurobe Cable Car: Continue your journey by taking the Kurobe Cable Car down to Kurobe Dam. This is one of the highest cable cars in Japan, and the ride is exhilarating!
• Kurobe Dam: Spend some time exploring the dam area. You can walk across the dam and enjoy the stunning turquoise waters of the Kurobe Lake.

Evening:

• Stay Overnight in Kurobe: There are several accommodations near the dam. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and relax after a day of exploration. If you’re up for it, take a stroll to see the dam illuminated at night!

## Day 3: Kurobe to Shinano-Omachi

Morning:

• Breakfast and Scenic Views: Enjoy breakfast with a view of the dam. If you’re an early riser, the morning light on the mountains is a sight to behold!
• Kurobe Gorge Railway: Take a ride on the Kurobe Gorge Railway. This charming train ride offers stunning views of the gorge and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Midday:

• Lunch in Kurobe: After your train ride, have lunch in Kurobe. Try some local fish dishes or a hearty curry rice.
• Transfer to Shinano-Omachi: After lunch, take a bus or train to Shinano-Omachi. The journey is scenic and gives you a chance to relax.

Afternoon:

• Explore Shinano-Omachi: Once you arrive, explore the quaint town. Visit the Omachi Onsen area, where you can enjoy a foot bath or a quick dip in an onsen.
• Hiking or Nature Walks: If you have time, consider a short hike in the surrounding mountains or a leisurely walk along the river.

Evening:

• Dinner and Departure: Enjoy a final dinner in Shinano-Omachi, savoring local flavors. If you’re heading back to Tokyo or Nagoya, make sure to check the train schedules for your return journey.

And there you have it! A delightful three-day itinerary through the Tateyama Alpine Route, filled with stunning views, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture every moment! Enjoy your trip! 🌄✨