Apr 12, 2023
Where is it?
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines scenic beauty, engineering ingenuity, and cultural significance in Japan's majestic mountains. It is located between Nagano and Toyama, and has two entrances - Ogizawa, Nagano and Tateyama Station, Toyama. These entrances offer access for travelers to explore the famous mountain sightseeing path that traverses the Northern Japan Alps. I recommend taking public transportation if you plan to enjoy the entire Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Otherwise, you would need to find a way back to the parking lot once you come out of the other side, which is near impossible.
Source: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Official Website
Access From Tokyo to Ogizawa, Nagano
Fastest - From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station and from there, transfer to Alpico express bus that goes directly to Ogizawa. This method, which costs 11,000 yen, takes less than 4 hours.
*Detail about Alpico express bus at the bottom
Most Affordable - You can take the Alpico highway bus from Shinjuku Station directly to Ogizawa for a fee of approximately 6,000 to 8,000 yen, depending on the season. This method takes around 6 hours. You can book 1 month in-advance at Alpico website.
After emerging from Tateyama Station, you have the option to make the most of your trip by indulging in sightseeing around Toyama and Kanazawa. Additionally, Toyama Airport provides an option to fly out to your next destination or country.
Access From Tokyo to Tateyama Station, Toyama
Fastest - From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Toyama Station and from there, transfer to the local Toyama Rail to Tateyama Station. This method, which costs 14,000 yen, takes less than 4 hours.
Most Affordable - You can take the highway bus from Shinjuku Station but this is not recommended as it takes more than 9 hours and the bus ride is a torture.
I Have JR Pass!
Congratulations! Trains including Shinkansen are free for you. You can get to Matsumoto for free and you can get to Toyama Station for free from any major station in Japan. From there, take the local train or bus (not free) to either Ogizawa or Tateyama Station.
I Want to Drive!
If driving is just more convenient for you, but you still want to enjoy the entire Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (which you should), there is a way to do so, albeit at a cost of 27,000 yen. You can enter from either side, and the porters will transport your car to the opposite side.
I Want to Fly!
Toyama Airport is an international airport in Toyama, so check if they have your flights. From the airport to Tateyama Station is about 90 minutes by train & bus.
Strategic Planning Can Save You Time and Money
By planning your trip around it, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route can actually save you both time and money as it provides a direct route between Toyama and Nagano. For instance, you can first visit Matsumoto Castle, then travel through the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and finally, exit on the other side to explore Kanazawa.
Coming from Osaka, Nagoya or Kyoto?
With Alpico Bus, you can easily reach popular destinations such as Ogizawa, Kamikochi, and Norikura Kogen from not only Tokyo, but also Osaka, Nagoya and Kyoto. Additionally, the Alpico Bus service is known for its comfortable seating, spacious luggage storage, and onboard amenities, such as Wi-Fi and power outlets.
They've also got great deals from time to time so be sure to check out their website.
Tony's 4-Day Plan
For 18,000 yen, acquire the Deal Package that includes a trip from Shinjuku Station to Toyama Station, via Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. You can purchase tickets online or at Central Honshu Information Plaza in Keio Shinjuku. Make your way to Ogizawa as indicated in the Deal Package.
Spend two nights at Murodo and plan a few hikes around the area, staying at one of the three hotels available - Hotel Tateyama, Mikurigaike Onsen, or Raichoso - with further planning details to be shared in a separate article focused on hiking in Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
After arriving at Tateyama Station, make your way to Toyama Station to explore various attractions, including the Toyama Castle, as well as nearby destinations such as Shirakawago, Kanazawa, and the Noto Islands.