Kurobe Gorge Railway Private Tour
Description
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan's most scenic mountains by historic trolley train. Ride the 1953 Black Valley Gorge Railway along dramatic cliffs beside the emerald Kurobe River, with chances to spot wild monkeys. At Nekomata Station, the only station in Japan with “cat” in its name, enjoy a 20-minute stop for photos of deep gorges and towering peaks. This limited service makes the experience truly special. Back in Unazuki Onsen, explore the hot spring town with four free foot baths and mountain views. This is more than sightseeing—it's a journey through untouched nature. If departing from Toyama Station, public transport is fine. For cruise port pick-up, please select the “for Cruise Travelers” option.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Meet your guide at Toyama Station, the gateway to the Northern Japan Alps. From here, take the local Toyama Chiho Railway through scenic countryside and charming towns as you travel toward the Kurobe–Unazuki Onsen area.
Arrive at Unazuki Onsen, the starting point of the Kurobe Gorge Railway. Board the nostalgic open-air torokko train and get ready to travel deep into the gorge, surrounded by cliffs, forests, and bridges offering dramatic views.
Stop at Nekomata Station, the only train station in Japan with the character “neko” (cat) in its name. Visit the viewing deck and photo frame spot for memorable pictures of the gorge and the railway bridge in a beautiful natural setting.
After returning from Nekoma, stroll through Unazuki Onsen town. Enjoy local dishes for lunch and try the public foot bath. For comfort, we recommend wearing socks instead of tights, as they are easier to remove when soaking your feet.
Return to Toyama Station by local train. Your tour ends here, or you may choose to be dropped off at your nearby hotel. This concludes a relaxing journey through one of Japan’s most scenic gorges.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
The guide will be waiting for you with your name sign.Please inform about your pick up details in advance.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.
- We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.
Reviews(5)
Our trip was absolutely spectacular. Due to the time of year, we had a modified private tour. The railway itself did not open until April 20. But we had a magnificent day of travel into a UNESCO world heritage site, a fabulous very special luncheon, and many other sites along the way in this beautiful part of Japan. I highly recommend the private tour. Our guide Mamiko was fabulous as well as her very able and professional Driver. We had a memorable day that we will always remember.
Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We are truly delighted to hear that your day was such a memorable and spectacular experience, even with the changes to the itinerary. It’s great to know that you enjoyed visiting this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage area, as well as the special lunch and scenic journey along the way. We also sincerely appreciate your kind words about your guide Mamiko and your driver. They will be very happy to hear that they helped make your day so enjoyable. It was our pleasure to assist such a lovely group, and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome you again for another unforgettable journey in Japan. Warm regards, Saaya MY Travel Consulting Inc.
We were a group of 8 going with Mami . Her and her driver were amazing. Professional, knowledgeable and very polite. We had the best time!
Thank you very much for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your group had such a wonderful time. It’s great to know that Mami and your driver provided a professional, knowledgeable, and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we truly appreciate you choosing to travel with us. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you all again on your next visit to Japan! Warm regards, Saaya MY Travel Consulting Inc.
Unfortunately the railway was unavailable for us so instead we went to a Unesco Heritage Village, in Gokayama. We had some very interesting stops on the way up the mountain. Mami and the bus driver (which was translated by the tour guide Mami) kept us very informed. After the village we went to a local restaurant suggested by Mami. True Japanese food in a beautiful setting. This was truly a fantastic tour. Since our driver was willing to share with us too, we basically had two informed guides.
Thank you very much for your thoughtful review! While we regret that the railway was unavailable during your visit, we’re truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed exploring Gokayama and the scenic stops along the way. It’s wonderful to know that Mami and your driver kept you well informed and helped make the experience even more enriching. We’re also glad you enjoyed the local restaurant and had the chance to experience authentic Japanese cuisine in such a beautiful setting. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we’re so pleased to hear that the tour turned into such a fantastic and memorable experience. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again on your next visit to Japan! Warm regards, Saaya MY Travel Consulting Inc.
Mamiko was an outstanding guide. The day was totally memorable. We thoroughly enjoyed the flexibility to stop at very special places. Both the guide and river were very gracious and knowledgeable. They hosted us as if we were their family. Not to miss was the informative visit to a UNESCO World heritage site Ainokira Gasshi-Zulu Village in the mountains. They also suggested a place for a fabulous authentic Japanese lunch featuring a typical Buddhist menu. It was so delicious. What a fabulous day!
Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a memorable day and enjoyed the flexibility of the tour. It’s especially lovely to know that Mamiko and your driver made you feel so welcomed and cared for throughout your journey. We’re also glad you enjoyed visiting Ainokura Gassho-style Village and experiencing its unique atmosphere, as well as the authentic Japanese lunch with a traditional Buddhist menu. Your kind words truly mean a lot to us, and we’re so pleased that your day became such a special experience. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again on your next visit to Japan! Warm regards, Saaya MY Travel Consulting Inc.
Mami and driver were the best ! She was so pleasant and knowledgeable! Way to go!!!
Thank you very much for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great experience with Mami and your driver. Your kind words about her knowledge and pleasant personality truly mean a lot to us. We hope to welcome you again on your next visit to Japan. Warm regards, Saaya MY Travel Consulting Inc.
