Unazuki Onsen

The ideal base for exploring Kurobe Gorge

Unazuki Onsen is on the Kurobe River, at the gateway to Kurobe Gorge. The hot-spring resort, the largest in Toyama Prefecture, features a wide range of accommodation options, along with charming streets dotted with restaurants and shops.  Many inns and hotels are situated along the river, with mountain and forest views. Although Unazuki Onsen is in the mountains, its proximity to Toyama Bay means that visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, along with local sake and beer, brewed with water from sources in the gorge. The compact town is easy to explore on foot. Free hot-spring footbaths around the town offer a soothing respite after hiking and sightseeing in the area. Unazuki Onsen was founded in 1923 and has hot-spring waters drawn from a natural spring upstream. The mildly alkaline waters are reputed to be among the clearest in Japan and are gentle on the skin. The temperature of the spring water is over 90 degrees Celsius at the source but is tempered for bathers at the public baths and hot-spring inns in town. 

Amaharashi Coast

A view that has captivated poets since ancient times

The iconic view of Toyama Bay against the dramatic backdrop of the snowy Tateyama mountains is unforgettable. The Amaharashi Coast is said to be the best location to enjoy the view, which has been celebrated by poets and writers since the eighth century. Like a scene from a painting, Onnaiwa Rock—a charming islet topped with pine trees—emerges from the sea in the foreground, and the mountains loom 3,000 meters high in the distance. Photographers often visit the area at sunset to capture the island and mountains silhouetted against the golden light of the setting sun. The Amaharashi Coast has sandy beaches lined with pine trees, and is popular for swimming in summer, thanks to its family-friendly shallows and breathtaking views.

Shomyo Falls

The highest waterfall in Japan, within the boundaries of a beautiful national park

Shomyo Falls has a 350-meter cascade and is the highest waterfall in Japan. It is located within the boundaries of the Chubusangaku National Park. As the seasons change, the surrounding landscape and the appearance and intensity of the waterfall also change. In spring when the snow melts, an additional cascade (Hannoki Falls) forms on the side of the main cascade (Shomyo Falls). Each season has its charms, and the falls are stunning and worth visiting anytime of year. Visitors can park at the Shomyodaira Parking Lot and follow a path to the foot of the falls.* On the way, you can check out educational models and videos at the Shomyodaira Rest Area or stop for a meal at the nearby cafe-diner. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the falls from the parking lot, but the route is well-paved and full of splendid views. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and take a raincoat or poncho to avoid getting wet from the spray. *Shomyodaira Parking Lot and the observatory at the bottom of the falls are not accessible year-round because of heavy snow. The trail from the parking lot to the falls typically closes in mid-November, and the road to the parking lot usually closes at the end of November. In other seasons road access to the parking lot is restricted by a gate. The gate is generally open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Dates and times for closures vary, so please inquire at the nearest tourist information center before visiting.