Explore the History in Toyama Walking Tour

Toyama Prefecture , Japan

Explore the History in Toyama Walking Tour

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About this experience

Framed by the majestic Northern Alps, Toyama City is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. Toyama boasts a fascinating history as a center of medicine and trade. Known for its pristine water and spectacular mountain views, the city offers visitors a unique charm that sets it apart.

Toyama Castle, a symbol of the city’s samurai past, stands as a testament to its feudal heritage. Nearby, the historic Ikedaya Medicine Shop provides a glimpse into the city’s legacy as a hub for traditional medicine. The tour then takes you to Ecchu Yatsuo, a picturesque town renowned for its cobblestone streets and the lively Owara Kaze no Bon festival, offering an enchanting window into local traditions.

Toyama’s sights are relatively close, but its layout can be tricky to navigate. On this tour, you’ll be guided by an experienced English-speaking guide who will ensure you enjoy a seamless journey through Toyama’s cultural and historical highlights.

Available options

Explore the History in Toyama Walking Tour

What's included

Train ride to and from Ecchu Yatsuo

English Speaking Guide

Entry Fee at Toyama Glass Museum

Detailed itinerary

To get the best views of the Japanese Alps, you will go up to the top of Toyama City Hall. Also, walk through Toyama Castle as you learn more about the history of the city and its relation to nearby Kanazawa and mountains,

Enter the Ikedaya Traditional Medicine Shop and see how medicine was made during the Edo/Meiji Period. You can also try it for yourself with a quick demonstration and experience. After the traditional shop you will have time to explore the Toyama Glass Museum on your own. Once everyone is finished with the museum it's time for lunch. Either in the area or near the Station is fine! Ask your guide for recommendations.

Arrive at Ecchu Yatsuo, a town famed as having one of the most beautiful streetscapes in Japan. You will take a tour of the town while entering some of the traditional shops and the festival museum.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Meeting point

The meetup point is in front of the Tourist Information Center in the middle of Toyama Station, across from the ticket office. It is in the center of the train station and you'll be able to find your tour guide next to the spiral stairs. Please wait there until 9:00 A.M. when the tour starts.

About Toyama Prefecture

Toyama Prefecture, located on the west coast of Japan's main island Honshu, is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Tateyama Mountain Range and the picturesque Toyama Bay. The region is also celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, particularly its seafood and the unique 'white rose' shrimp. With a mix of modern cities and traditional towns, Toyama offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Tateyama Mountain Range

The Tateyama Mountain Range is a stunning alpine area known for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and hot springs. It's part of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park and offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Toyama Bay

Toyama Bay is famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. It's a prime spot for whale watching, scuba diving, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Nature Half day to full day Budget to Moderate

Gokayama Historic Villages

Gokayama is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) that have stood for centuries. The villages offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life and architecture.

Historical Half day to full day Free to Budget

Toyama Castle Park

Toyama Castle Park is a beautiful park featuring the ruins of Toyama Castle and a reconstructed keep. The park is surrounded by cherry blossom trees and offers a peaceful escape in the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (¥300 for the museum)

Kurobe Dam

Kurobe Dam is one of the tallest dams in the world and a marvel of modern engineering. The dam is part of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and offers stunning views and a thrilling experience.

Engineering Half day to full day Moderate (included in Alpine Route tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Toyama Bay Shrimp (Shiroebi)

Small, sweet shrimp harvested from Toyama Bay, often served as sashimi or in hot pots.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Houtou

A hearty noodle soup made with miso broth, vegetables, and various meats, similar to a Japanese version of ramen.

Main Course Vegetarian options available

Toyama Ramen

A local ramen variety with a rich, soy-based broth and thick, chewy noodles, often topped with chashu pork and green onions.

Main Course Contains pork

Kurobe Beef

High-quality beef from the Kurobe region, known for its tenderness and marbling, often served as steak or in hot pots.

Main Course Contains beef

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tateyama Mountain Range Skiing and snowboarding in winter Scuba diving in Toyama Bay Onsen (hot spring) visits Picnicking in Toyama Castle Park Strolling through Gokayama villages Visiting museums and historical sites Trying local crafts and workshops

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn are major attractions.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Toyama Prefecture is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Use reputable tour operators and check reviews before booking
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Toyama Airport • 3.5 km from Toyama City center

By train

Toyama Station

By bus

Toyama Station Bus Terminal, Toyama Chiho Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. IC cards like Suica and ICOCA can be used for easy payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Toyama City Tateyama Gokayama Shirahama

Day trips

Kanazawa

50 km from Toyama City • Half day to full day

Kanazawa is a beautiful city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and traditional crafts. It's a great day trip from Toyama for history and culture enthusiasts.

Shirakawa-go

80 km from Toyama City • Full day

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) that have stood for centuries. The village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and architecture.

Takayama

120 km from Toyama City • Full day

Takayama is a charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional inns, and sake breweries. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and local crafts.

Festivals

Toyama Festival • August Gokayama Festival • August Tateyama Snow Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route for breathtaking views and a unique experience
Try local specialties like Toyama Bay shrimp, Houtou, and Toyama Ramen
Stay in a traditional ryokan with onsen baths for an authentic Japanese experience
Explore Gokayama's historic villages for a glimpse into rural Japanese life
Visit Toyama Castle Park for a peaceful escape in the city and cherry blossom viewing in spring