Toyama Prefecture is a hidden gem in Japan that offers something special for every season. Nestled along Japan’s western coast, Toyama offers breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique family-friendly adventures—all without the hustle and crowds of the major cities. Instead of navigating crowded shrines or busy shopping streets, picture yourself walking through a corridor of snow walls, gliding along peaceful canals, and strolling through tulip gardens bursting with color.
Whether you’re admiring blooming tulips in spring or walking through towering snow walls in late June. Toyama’s breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly activities make it the perfect destination for creating lasting memories. This is the kind of trip that offers not only iconic photo moments but also a deeper connection to Japan’s nature and history.
This guide will take you through Toyama’s seasonal highlights, helping you create a unique and immersive journey with the family through Japan—far away from the usual tourist crowds.
What to See in Spring (March–May): Blossoms and Bright Colors
1. Fugan Canal Kansui Park
Spring in Toyama is all about cherry blossoms, and Fugan Canal Kansui Park is a favorite spot for sightseeing. Hop aboard the Fugan Water Line, a relaxing 30- to 45-minute sightseeing boat that cruises along the canal and offers stunning views of the park’s cherry blossoms, the Tenmon Bridge, and the surrounding neighborhood, making it a picturesque way to experience the season.
One of the park’s key highlights is Tenmon Bridge, a beautiful arched pedestrian bridge that offers panoramic views of the canal, the distant Tateyama mountain range, and the cityscape. Don’t miss the wall art installations underneath the bridge. These vibrant murals add a fun, modern twist to the park’s serene atmosphere and make for great photo opportunities, especially for families looking for unique backdrops. In the evening, the bridge is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a family stroll after sunset.
Travel Tip
Kids will also be thrilled to know that this park features a Pokémon manhole cover featuring Inkay. Look for it at the end of Tenmon Bridge!
How to Get Here
It is just a 9-minute walk from JR Toyama Station’s North Exit. You can also take a short taxi ride if traveling with young children or heavy luggage.
Price
The Fugan Water Line typically operates from spring to autumn. Please check the official website when making a reservation for information on fares and non-operating days.
Where to Eat
Don’t miss the famous Starbucks at Kansui Park, often dubbed the “most beautiful Starbucks in the world” for its breathtaking views of the canal and cherry blossoms. It’s the perfect spot for parents to grab coffee while the kids enjoy a snack break.
2. Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art and Design
A must-visit for families and art lovers, the Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art and Design showcases an impressive collection of works from renowned Japanese and international artists, including masterpieces by Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall. The museum also frequently hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, including those related to modern and contemporary artists, displays of design works such as posters and interior items, and picture book exhibitions for children.
One of the museum’s standout features is the rooftop garden and play area—a fun and interactive outdoor space where kids can run, explore, and enjoy the colorful installations while parents admire the panoramic views of Kansui Park and the Tateyama mountain range.
Travel Tip
The museum is stroller-friendly, with restrooms and diaper-changing facilities. Plan time for the rooftop garden, where kids can run and play.
How to Get Here
The museum is a 15-minute walk from JR Toyama Station’s North Exit, located near Toyama Canal Kansui Park. It’s also accessible via the Toyama City Loop tram.
Price
Museum ticket per adult and child
Collection Exhibition
Adults: 300 yen
*For seniors (70 and above) and university students or younger, admission to collection exhibitions is free.
Special Exhibition
Exhibition admission fees vary depending on the exhibition.
*Tickets for the special exhibitions also include admission to the collection exhibition.
*Free admission both to collection exhibitions and special exhibitions for the following visitors.
- Children, students (elementary, junior high or high school students, etc.)
- Disabled persons with any type of disability certificate and one accompanying person are free.
Where to Eat
Located on the third floor of the museum, BiBiBi & JURULi offers a dining experience that’s both artistic and welcoming for families. The restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Toyama Bay and within the prefecture, crafted into colorful and beautifully plated dishes that feel like works of art. The atmosphere is relaxed, with spacious seating and large windows that offer stunning views of Kansui Park.
Families will appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as high chairs, kid-friendly menu options, and the space features art, making the restaurant feel playful and inspiring for young diners.
(Include average meal price per adult/child)
Composition plate featuring seasonal delicacies from Toyama: 1,900 yen
Plates for children: 950 yen
3. Tonami Tulip Gallery and Tulip Fair
Celebrate spring with a burst of color at the Tonami Tulip Gallery, a must-visit destination for flower lovers. Located in Tonami City, this botanical garden showcases the region’s proud history of tulip cultivation, with tulips displayed in creative arrangements throughout the year. The highlight of the season is the Tonami Tulip Fair, held annually in late April to early May, where more than 3 million tulips of over 300 varieties bloom in a stunning array of colors and patterns across beautifully landscaped gardens.
The Tulip Palace is a visitor favorite, where tulips encircle you in a 360-degree display of vivid blooms. Don’t miss the Palette Garden, featuring the Tulip Kaleidoscope, where mirrors and floral projections create an immersive, dreamlike experience. Visitors can also explore the Under Farm exhibit to learn about tulip cultivation and history, making the trip both fun and educational for families.
Travel Tip
There are interactive displays for kids, making it a great spot for both play and learning. Be sure to check out the souvenir shop for tulip-themed treats!
How to Get Here
From JR Toyama Station, take the Ainokaze Toyama Railway Line to JR Takaoka Station, then transfer to the JR Johana Line to Tonami Station (approximately 1 hour including transfer time). From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the tulip park. During the fair, shuttle buses may also be available from the station for added convenience.
Price
Price per ticket to enter the gallery and the fair for adults and kids; plus train/bus fare
Gallery Admission (Permanent Exhibition)
High school students and older: 310 yen
65 years old and over: 250 yen
Elementary and junior high school students: 160 yen
Preschoolers: Free
2025 Tulip Fair Admission Fee
*The 2025 Tulip Fair will be held from April 22 to May 5, 2025.
High school students and older: 1,500 yen
Elementary and junior high school students: 200 yen
*Elementary and junior high school students: Free on May 5
Preschoolers: Free
Train fare from JR Toyama Station to JR Tonami Station
Junior high school students and older: 630 yen
Elementary school students: 310 yen
Where to Eat
Don’t miss the chance to try the unique tulip-flavored soft serve ice cream at the on-site cafe. This creamy treat is subtly floral, with a refreshing sweetness that captures the essence of the tulip fields surrounding the gallery.
What to See in Summer (June–August): Mountain Adventures and Art
1. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a breathtaking journey through the Northern Japan Alps, often referred to as the “Roof of Japan.” This route connects Tateyama Town in Toyama Prefecture to Omachi City in Nagano Prefecture and is renowned for its stunning scenery and remarkable transport system.
Reaching the Kurobe Dam—the pinnacle of the route—is an adventure that takes approximately three hours one way. The journey is a patchwork of exciting experiences, combining scenic Electric bus rides through mountain tunnels, cable cars with jaw-dropping views, and winding bus rides through alpine terrain.
One memorable stop along the way is the Hotel Tateyama, located at Murodo—the highest station on the route, standing at an elevation of 2,450 meters. After a winding bus ride that ascends through hairpin turns, this cozy mountain hotel provides a perfect rest stop. It’s a great place to warm up, grab a hot drink, and admire the surrounding peaks from the observation deck. For families, it’s an ideal spot to let kids stretch their legs and play in the snow before continuing the journey.
Another highlight is the Tateyama Snow Wall (Yuki no Otani), a towering wall of snow that can reach up to 20 meters high in spring. Open only from mid-April to late June, visitors can walk through this surreal corridor and experience a winter wonderland like no other. It’s a must-see for families visiting during these months.
Finally, the journey culminates at the Kurobe Dam, Japan’s tallest dam. From late June to mid-October, the dam showcases a spectacular water discharge event. During this period, visitors can witness water cascading down the dam’s spillways in a powerful display, creating a misty atmosphere that’s both refreshing and awe-inspiring. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll across the dam or relax at the observation deck for the best view of this incredible phenomenon.
Travel Tips
- The route involves multiple transfers, steps, and some walking, so it might be best to use a baby carrier or sling for babies and toddlers. Bulky strollers are not practical here; but should you need one, use an easily collapsible umbrella stroller.
- The winding bus ride to Murodo Station can be challenging for kids prone to motion sickness. Choose seats closer to the front of the bus, where the ride tends to feel less bumpy. Pack easy-to-digest snacks like crackers or bananas, and make sure they stay hydrated. You can also use a motion sickness wristband that’s safe for kids. And just in case, pack a change of clothes, wipes, and small plastic bags for emergencies.
How to Get Here
Start from JR Toyama Station and take the Toyama Chiho Railway to Tateyama Station (approximately 1 hour). From there, you’ll begin your Alpine Route adventure with a series of scenic transports, including cable cars, highland buses, and ropeways. It’s best to start your day early, as the full route can take 6 to 7 hours round-trip.
Price
Round-trip fare between Tateyama Station and Kurobe Lake
*Walk from Kurobe Lake to Kurobe Dam.
Junior high school students and older: 16,480 yen
Elementary school student: 8,240 yen
Preschool children: Free
Where to Eat
The Kurobe Dam Café offers a unique dining experience with a stunning view of the dam’s emerald water and verdant landscape. The true highlight, however, is the cafe’s signature dish, the Kurobe Dam Curry. This cleverly designed curry plate replicates the iconic dam, with rice shaped like the dam wall holding back a flavorful “reservoir” of rich green curry. The curry’s green hue is inspired by the vibrant waters of the dam. Making it as visually impressive as it is delicious. It’s a fun, photo-worthy meal that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Wrapping Up Your Spring & Summer Adventure in Toyama
From the vibrant cherry blossoms at Fugan Canal Kansui Park to the breathtaking tulip fields of Tonami Tulip Gallery, Toyama’s spring offers a colorful and refreshing escape for families. As summer arrives, adventure seekers will love the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, where towering snow walls and the majestic Kurobe Dam provide unforgettable sights and experiences.
Whether you’re exploring peaceful canals, strolling through art-filled museums, or conquering mountain trails, Toyama in spring and summer is a destination that blends nature, culture, and family-friendly fun. But the journey doesn’t end here!
Lastly, get ready to experience Toyama’s autumn charm and winter magic in Part 2! Discover breathtaking fall foliage, cozy onsen retreats, and the winter wonderland that makes Toyama an all-season destination.
Read Part 2 – Fall & Winter here!
