Kurobe Gorge Railway

The Kurobe Gorge Railway operates Japan's most dramatic mountain railway experience through one of the country's deepest gorges. Originally built to serve the construction of the Kurobe dam for the Kansai Electric Power Company, which was completed in 1963, this 762mm narrow gauge railway was never intended for tourism. However, so many people requested to ride the train to enjoy the spectacular views of the gorge that the company began allowing travelers to use the railway, eventually spinning off as an independent railway company in 1971.

The railway holds significant cultural value as both an engineering achievement and gateway to Japan's pristine wilderness. The train travels 20.1 kilometers from Unazuki Station to Keyakidaira Station through terrain that remains largely inaccessible by road. The gorge showcases some of Japan's most untouched natural beauty, with emerald river waters cutting through densely forested mountains that transform into spectacular displays of autumn colors each October.

Passengers ride in distinctive open-air trolley cars that provide unobstructed views of the dramatic landscape. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes one way, traveling at a leisurely 16 kilometers per hour. The experience includes crossing high bridges over the rushing Kurobe River and passing through tunnels carved into sheer rock faces. Multiple intermediate stations allow visitors to disembark and explore hot spring resorts, hiking trails, and observation points throughout the gorge.

The railway operates seasonally from mid-April through November, with tickets available in multiple classes. Round-trip fares range from ¥1,660 for adults to Kuronagi Station and ¥2,820 to Nekomata Station, with first-class upgrades available for an additional ¥600. Access the railway via JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kurobe Unazuki Onsen Station (2.5 hours, approximately ¥12,000), then transfer to local trains to reach Unazuki Station. Same-day tickets can be purchased from 6:50 AM at Unazuki Station, though advance reservations are recommended during peak seasons including Golden Week, summer festivals, and autumn foliage periods.