Independent travel and view of the city of Toyama! History of Toyama City Antiquity and the origin of the regi...
Antiquity and the origin of the region
The lands on which the city of Toyama is located today have long been part of the ancient Japanese province of Etchū (в国, Etchū no kuni). The favorable climate, fertile plain and rich water resources made the area ideal for farming and settlements. Already in prehistoric times there were small communities engaged in rice farming and fishing. Due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan, Toyama had contacts with other regions and even mainland cultures of Asia.
The Middle Ages and the Age of Warring Provinces
In the Sengoku era (XV-XVI centuries), when Japan was divided between the warring daimyo, the territory of today's Toyama repeatedly changed hands. At the end of the XVI century, the commander Sassa Narimasa built a castle here - Toyama-jo (ко大ко). Around the fortress gradually grew the castle town (Jyokamati), which became the administrative and commercial center of the region.
Toyama’s strategic position – between the sea and the mountains, at the intersection of transport routes – made it an important hub in the northern part of the island of Honshu.
Edo Period (1603–1868) – flourishing of crafts
With the establishment of the shogunate Tokugawa Toyama became part of the Maeda clan (Kaga house). This period was a time of stability and economic development. The city became famous for the production of medicines - "Toyama-no Kusuri" ( の ). Drug dealers from Toyama traveled throughout Japan, distributing their products and making the name of the city known throughout the country.
In addition, such crafts as the manufacture of Japanese paper (vashi), metal casting and trade by sea were actively developed. The city became a center of artisans and merchants who maintained contacts with the ports of the Sea of Japan.
Meiji and the Age of Modernization
After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Toyama became part of the new administrative system of Japan, and on April 1, 1889, it became an official city. At this time, industry and infrastructure were actively developing: thanks to numerous rivers and an abundance of water, the construction of hydroelectric power plants began, which gave a powerful impetus to industrial growth.
The regulation of the Jinzu River and the improvement of the urban area turned Toyama into a modern industrial center.
World War II and Destruction
By the beginning of World War II, Toyama had become an important industrial hub, producing metal, aluminum and bearings for the army. That is why on August 1-2, 1945, the city was subjected to a massive night bombardment by American aircraft. Nearly the entire city centre was destroyed by fire, with an estimated 99% of the city area burned. These events left a deep mark on the history of the city.
Post-war revival
After the war, Toyama residents began rebuilding with great tenacity. In 1954, Toyama Castle was rebuilt as a symbol of rebirth and new life. The industry gained momentum again, but the city gradually changed its direction, focusing on the environment, sustainable development and quality of life. Thanks to its numerous rivers and mountain springs, Toyama has become a center for clean technology, energy and pharmaceuticals.
In 2012, the city was recognized as one of the “ecological cities of the future” of Japan. His “compact city” model is an example of an intelligent combination of urbanism and nature.
Modern Toyama
Today, Toyama is a combination of tradition and innovation. The city is famous not only for its historic castle and museums, but also for beautiful views of the Northern Japanese Alps, the clean waters of Toyama Bay and high-quality seafood. Ancient crafts have been preserved here - glassblowing art, the production of paper and medicines.
Toyama has become a symbol of rebirth and sustainable development: a city that has managed to turn the destruction of war into a stimulus for renewal while remaining true to its cultural roots.
Toyama: The Hidden Pearl of the Sea of Japan
Imagine a place where the majestic mountains of the Northern Japanese Alps are reflected in the crystal clear waters of the bay, where ancient castles coexist with modern trams, and the air is filled with the aroma of the sea and mountain forests. This is Toyama, the heart of the prefecture of the same name on the northwestern coast of Honshu.
A city with soul and history
The center of the city is Toyama-jō Castle, a symbol of resilience and rebirth. After being destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt and today is surrounded by a beautiful park, perfect for walking and picnics under cherry blossoms.
Nearby is the Museum of Folk Traditions, ancient merchant quarters and modern galleries of glass and design, where the past and the present literally intertwine into a single whole.
Gateway to the Northern Alps
Toyama is the starting point for one of Japan’s most impressive mountain routes, the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Here you can see the famous snow wall of Yuki no Otaani, where snowdrifts reach a height of up to 20 meters! Mountain panoramas, thermal springs, clean lakes and fresh air make this place a real paradise for nature lovers and outdoor activities.
The gift-giving sea
On the other side is Toyama Bay, known in Japan as the “natural refrigerator” due to the depth and purity of the water. Here you can catch the legendary glowing squid (hotaru-ika), sweet white shrimp and many other seafood that you can try at the fish market or in one of the cozy restaurants of the city.
A city for walks and leisurely discoveries
Toyama is an example of a Japanese “compact city”: everything is convenient, clean and accessible on foot or on stylish trams that slide smoothly through the streets. Boulevards are decorated with flowers, rivers cross elegant bridges, and from anywhere in the city you can see the silhouette of mountains on the horizon. There is no bustle of megacities, but there is a sense of harmony, space and inspiration.
City of Tradition and Tranquility
Toyama is known for its crafts: glassblowing art, pharmaceutical products and the production of Japanese paper. Local craftsmen have passed on their knowledge for centuries and created things that combine grace and practicality – perfect souvenirs for travelers.
1. High-end hotels (luxury)
Suitable for a comfortable holiday, romantic trips or business visits. They are distinguished by spacious rooms, beautiful views of the city or mountains, restaurants and spa services.
Examples:
ANA Crowne Plaza Toyama (IHG) is one of the most famous hotels in the city center. Spacious rooms, restaurant with panoramic views, high level of service.
DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama is a modern hotel near the station, combining a convenient location and stylish design.
Estimated price: from ¥15,000-25,000 per night.
2. Medium level (business hotels)
The most common format in Japan: clean, convenient, without unnecessary services. A great option for travelers who spend more time outside the hotel.
Examples:
Comfort Hotel Toyama - next to the station, breakfast included, convenient for short trips.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Toyama - spacious rooms, convenient location, good service.
Price: approximately ¥8,000-15,000 per night.
3. Budget options and hostels
If you just want to spend the night and save money, you can choose a capsule hotel, hostel or guest house. Usually such places are cozy, with common kitchens and lobby, where you can chat with other travelers.
Examples:
Iruka Hostel is a popular and clean hostel near the center. There are public and private rooms.
Guest House Iwase is a traditional Japanese house converted into a guest house. Quiet, cozy and inexpensive.
Price: ¥3,000-6,000 per night.
4. Alternative accommodation
If you want something unusual, you can stop at:
traditional Japanese house (combinka) - restored old buildings, where you can feel the atmosphere of Japan of past centuries;
mini-hotels and apartments - with kitchen and washing machine, convenient for long stay;
Ryukans with onsen are especially good in the vicinity of Toyama, closer to the mountains.
Price: from ¥8,000 and up (depending on format and amenities).
1. Toyama Castle (Toyama Castle)
The historic symbol of the city. Modern reconstruction of the ancient castle, inside the city museum of history. Around is a picturesque park where sakura blooms in spring and festivals take place in summer. How to get there: about 10 minutes walk from Toyama Station or a few minutes by tram.
2. Toyama Glass Art Museum (Toyama Glass Art Museum)
Modern building with unique architecture, created by the famous Japanese architect Kuma Kengo. It exhibits works of glass from artists from all over the world, as well as works by local masters. How to get there: approximately 15 minutes walk from Toyama Station or 5 minutes by city tram.
3. Tateyama Cable Car and Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
One of the most impressive mountain roads in Japan. It connects Toyama with Nagano Prefecture and passes through snow tunnels, mountain lakes and the Kurobe Dam. In spring you can see the famous snow walls up to 20 meters high. How to get there: from Toyama Station by train to Tateyama station (about 1 hour), then transfer to the cable car.
4. Onsen Unazuki (Unazuki Onsen)
Hot springs located in the picturesque valley of the Kurobe River. Here you can swim in traditional open-air baths, admiring the views of the mountains. The place is popular among those who want to relax and feel the atmosphere of traditional Japan. How to get there: From Toyama Station by train line Toyama Chiho Railway to Unazuki Onsen station (about 1.5 hours).
5. The Toyama City Wholesale Market
A place where you can taste the freshest seafood from the Sea of Japan, including the famous white shrimp (Shiroebi), the culinary symbol of the region. About 15-20 minutes by bus from Toyama Station.
6. Toyama Bay and Iwakurazaki View Point
The bay offers stunning views of the Northern Alps. In clear weather you can see the mountains reflected in the water. The place is popular with photographers and romantics. How to get there: about 30 minutes by train to Iwasehama station, then 10 minutes on foot.
7. Zuiryu-ji Temple and Gardens
Although the temple itself is in the nearby town of Takayama, it is often visited from Toyama. This is a sample of Zen architecture of the XVII century, included in the list of national treasures of Japan. How to get there: about 20 minutes by high-speed train from Toyama station to Takaoka station.
Transport accessibility
From Tokyo: by high-speed train Hokuriku Shinkansen – about 2 hours 10 minutes.
From Kanazawa: only 20 minutes by train.
By city: there is a convenient tram network, buses and regional trains.
For trips to the mountains and onsen: it is recommended to use the Toyama Chiho Railway line or rent a car.
Spring in Toyama is the time of nature’s awakening. Sakura and tulips bloom, the famous mountain route Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Ruth with its snow walls opens.
The Tonami Tulip Festival (Tonami Tulip Fair)
Takes place from late April to early May in the city of Tonami. More than three million tulips create huge patterns and floral paintings. It is one of the largest flower festivals in Japan.
Sanno Festival (Sannō Festival)
One of the oldest city festivals of Toyama, held in early June at the temple of Hie. Citizens arrange colorful processions, play drums and bring gifts to the gods - this is a symbol of spring renewal.
Summer is the season of lights, lanterns and lights. The city is filled with the sounds of drums, music and the aroma of street food.
The Tsuzawa Yotaka Andon Festival
In early June, the streets of Oyabe are illuminated by huge lantern structures in the shape of warriors and animals. At night, they converge in a symbolic "battle of light" - a spectacular and noisy sight.
Yotaka Festival (Tonami Yotaka Festival)
A similar celebration takes place in the nearby town of Tonami. There are also lights, but the atmosphere is a little calmer and more traditional.
Summer Fireworks Festival (Toyama Summer Fireworks Festival)
On August 1, the sky above the Jinzu River lights up with thousands of lights. This is the main city holiday of summer - the Japanese come in light kimonos (yukats), relax by the water and enjoy evening salutes.
Autumn in Toyama is a time of red maples and spiritual holidays.
The Owara Kaze-no-Bon Wind Festival
It is held from 1 to 3 September in the ancient district of Yatsoo. In the narrow streets under the light of lanterns, men and women in straw hats slowly dance. The dance symbolizes gratitude to nature and the wind over the past year. The atmosphere is mysterious and very beautiful - one of the most sophisticated sights in Japan.
SCOT Summer Season (Theatre Season in Toga Village)
In August and September, an international festival of theater and contemporary art takes place in the mountains. Performances are held in the open air, surrounded by forests. This is an event for connoisseurs of art and unusual impressions.
In winter, Toyama turns into a calm snow-covered region. The main events take place in the mountains and onsen.
Winter Festival of Lights (Winter Illumination)
Millions of lights are lit in the city center and parks in December, especially in the square in front of Toyama Station.
Ski festivals and spa season
Near Toyama open ski resorts and onsen, especially popular areas of Tateyama and Unazuki. This is a time for relaxing and enjoying the hot springs.
1. Winter (December – February)
Air temperature: usually from -2°C to 6°C.
Weather: Cold and humid, snowfalls often, especially in the mountains. Toyama is known for its heavy snowfall – it is part of the Japanese Alps.
Water temperature: in the Sea of Japan about 7-9 ° C - swimming is almost impossible.
Features:
Winter sports in the mountains.
Beautiful snowy landscapes and snowy villages.
Best for: lovers of winter sports and photo tourism.
2. Spring (March-May)
Air temperature: about 5-18 ° C, by May it is already warm and comfortable.
Weather: little rain in March, in April-May the cherry blossom season begins.
Water temperature: around 10–16°C is still cool for swimming.
Features:
Cherry blossoms (usually late April – early May).
Peak tourist season for photo trips and walks in nature.
Best for: cultural tourism and quiet walks.
3. Summer (June-August)
Air temperature: usually 20-30 ° C, humidity is high.
Weather: June is the rainy season (tsuyu), July and August are hot, sometimes storms and typhoons.
Water temperature: about 22-26°C, comfortable for swimming, especially in August.
Features:
Summer festivals, green mountains and rivers.
It is possible to ride on the beach, but high humidity can be tiring.
Best for: beach holidays and active tourism in the mountains.
4. Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature: about 10–23°C.
Weather: cooler, less rain, especially October and November
Water temperature: about 18-22 ° C - swim until mid-October.
Features:
Autumn Mountain Painting (late October – early November) is one of the most beautiful places in Japan for autumn foliage.
Best for: photo tourism and walks in the fresh air.
1. Language of communication
Main language: Japanese.
English: In touristic places (hotels, museums, transport) English is often understood, but outside of big cities, English is limited.
Council:
It is useful to learn basic phrases in Japanese: greetings, thanks, apologies, questions about direction.
In restaurants and shops you can use gestures and show on the menu / product.
2. Traditions and customs
Greetings and behaviour
A bow is a standard greeting (it is not customary to shake hands).
Avoid loud conversations on public transport.
Respect for elders and others is important.
In temples and sanctuaries
Take off your shoes before entering the temples, some places require removing your shoes even in some halls.
Do not touch sacred objects and do not take pictures where prohibited.
There is often a place to wash your hands and mouth before entering - use it.
Restaurants and cafes
It's not customary to tip.
Before eating, they say “itadakimas” (thank you for the food), after eating – “gochiso-sama-dashita” (thank you for the meal).
Don’t push chopsticks vertically into your food – it’s a funeral symbol.
Public places
Don’t litter – in Japan, urns are rarely found, many people carry garbage with them to their homes.
queues - keep order, especially at stations and in transport.
Do not use your mobile phone loudly on trains.
3. Laws and regulations
Documents: Always carry your passport.
Alcohol and smoking: Smoking is allowed only in designated areas; alcohol is allowed from the age of 20.
Traffic: traffic on the left; pedestrians must follow the rules of crossing streets.
Photography: It is forbidden to photograph people without their consent, especially children.
Drugs and certain medicines are strictly prohibited, even some drugs permitted in your country.
1. Greetings and courtesy
)の) (Konnichiwa) - Good afternoon
Good morning (Ohayou gozaimasu)
)の) (Konbanwa) - Good evening
Sayounara - Goodbye
(Arigatou gozaimasu) - Thank you.
)の (Sumimasen) - Sorry / Excuse me
Gomen nasai (for the error or inconvenience)
2. Restaurant and café
Menyuu o kudasai - Please give me a menu
(Kore o kudasai) - I want it (pointing to a dish)
Osusume wa nan desu ka? - What do you recommend?
O-kaikei o onegaishimasu (invoice, please)
но42но (Oishii desu) - Delicious
3. Transportation.
Kore wa doko desu ka? - Where is this?
) (~ ni ikitai desu) - I want to go to ~
Eki wa doko desu ka? - Where is the station?
Kippu o ichimai kudasai – One ticket, please
(Toire wa doko desu ka?) - Where's the toilet?
4. Stores.
Ikura desu ka? - How much does it cost?
Kore o kudasai - I'll take it
(Saizu wa arimasu ka?) - Is there a size?
ся? (Kurejitto kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?) - Can you pay with a card?
5. Polite phrases for tourists
)/) (Hai/Iie) - Yes/No
Tasukete kudasai – Please help me.
I don't understand.
Nihongo ga sukoshi shika hanasemasen - I speak Japanese only a little
Shashin o totte mo ii desu ka? - Can I take a picture?
1. Food and drink
Unique dishes
Hotaru-ika (firefly squid) are small sea squid that are caught in the Sea of Japan in the spring. Usually served pickled or dried.
White Shokai fish (Shiroebi) is a rare small fish, a local delicacy, usually served boiled or as a dried snack.
Tateyama Black Ramen is a special kind of ramen, a local variant with rich broth, sometimes with seafood.
Sweets and snacks
Gastronomic souvenirs (omiyage) are sweets with white fish or local rice.
Toyama-hoshi-nimono (dried seafood) is a light and tasty snack that is long stored.
Yogurt and ice cream with white fish (Shiroebi Ice Cream) is an unusual but popular souvenir among tourists.
Drinks.
Sake from the Toyama region is soft and pure in taste, thanks to the mountain water.
Local green tea products are of high quality, pleasant aroma and healthy.
2. Medical and health-improving products
Mineral water from the Toyama Alps is clean and fresh, it is sometimes used to make homemade herbal infusions.
Herbal teas and tinctures are local mixtures to improve digestion and strengthen immunity.
Salt baths and salts with mineral additives are popular for rest and relaxation after mountain walks.
Local honey - mountain and flower honey is considered very useful for immunity and skin.
3. Souvenirs and traditional products
Toyama pottery and porcelain are ceramics, especially handmade cups and kettles.
Netske and miniature figurines are Japanese souvenirs in the form of animals or symbols of the city.
Traditional fans and fabrics (kimono, yukata) are light summer kimonos and fabric souvenirs.
Lacquered products - trays, boxes and jewelry with local painting.
Traditional knives and kitchen utensils are high quality Japanese knives, especially for fish.
1. Safety of rest in Toyama
General level of safety: Toyama is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Theft and violent crime are rare, but standard precautions are still needed:
monitor things in public places;
Do not leave valuables in the car;
Carefully use ATMs and cards.
Natural risks:
Heavy snowfall in winter (especially in the mountains)
typhoons in the summer (July-September), in which roads may be closed and trains canceled;
Earthquakes - Japan is a seismically active zone, but buildings are designed for safety.
2. Required documents for the tourist
Passport - mandatory, must be valid at least for the entire period of stay.
Visa - for most citizens of Russia and CIS countries, including tourist trips up to 90 days, a visa is not required (visa-free regime).
Tickets back and forth may be asked when entering.
Confirmation of residence – booking a hotel or guest house.
Insurance policy – be sure to have health insurance for travel, including coverage for hospitalization and emergency care.
3. Health insurance
Coverage in case:
illness or injury;
hospitalization;
evacuation in emergency situations.
It is necessary to register in advance with an international insurance company.
In Japan, health care is expensive without insurance.
4. Emergency phones
Police: 110
Ambulance/Fire Service: 119
Japan National Tourism Organization: +81 50 3816 2787
Consulate or Embassy: It is advisable to record the contact of your embassy in Japan.
5. Mobile communications
Local SIM cards for tourists:
B-Mobile, SoftBank, NTT Docomo - there are packages for 7-30 days.
You can buy at the airport or order in advance.
Roaming: Russian operators also work, but are expensive.
Wi-Fi: hotels, cafes, train stations have free Wi-Fi.
6. Period of stay without departure
Citizens of Russia, Ukraine and most CIS countries can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa for tourist purposes.
Exceeding this period without a visa is punishable by a fine and deportation.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
