Doraemon Walking Road
The Doraemon Walking Road is a small pedestrian walkway located in Wing Wing Takaoka Square, directly in front of Takaoka Station in Toyama Prefecture. This charming attraction honors the hometown of Fujiko F. Fujio (real name Hiroshi Fujimoto), the celebrated manga artist who created the iconic Doraemon series. Born in 1933 in Takaoka City, Fujiko F. Fujio spent his formative years here before moving to Tokyo at age 20, making this location significant as the birthplace of one of Japan's most beloved characters.
The walkway features twelve bronze statues of Doraemon characters positioned on both sides of the road, creating an immersive experience for fans of all ages. These detailed sculptures showcase various characters from the manga series, including Doraemon himself and his companions. The area also incorporates Doraemon-themed design elements throughout, with local trolley cars painted to resemble the famous blue robotic cat, enhancing the overall thematic experience.
Visitors can take commemorative photographs with each character statue, making it a popular destination for manga enthusiasts, families, and tourists exploring the cultural heritage of Japanese animation. The walking road serves as an accessible introduction to Doraemon's origins and connects visitors to the broader Doraemon-themed attractions throughout Takaoka, including the nearby Fujiko F. Fujio Hometown Art Gallery and Takaoka Otogi no Mori Park.
The attraction is easily accessible via Takaoka Station, served by JR West Hokuriku Main Line and Johana Line. The walking road is located immediately outside the station in the public square, requiring no additional transportation. Admission is free and the walkway is accessible 24 hours daily. Due to its compact size, visitors typically spend 15-30 minutes exploring and photographing the statues. The location can be visited year-round, though winter visitors should exercise caution during snowy conditions when walkways may become slippery.
