Landmarks
There are many photo spots along the Alpine Route. Enjoy scenery that only a 2,000 m change in elevation can create.
Mikurigaike, a Must-Visit Spot in Tateyama Kurobe
- Area:
- 15 min walk from Murodo Terminal, rooftop exit
- Viewing time:
- June to November
Mikurigaike is said to be the most beautiful volcanic lake in the Northern Japan Alps, and is a symbol of the Alpine Route. Covered in snow until spring, from June to October the snow melts and the magnificent Tateyama Mountain Range is reflected in the lake’s surface.
The photo spot is a 15-minute walk from Murodo Terminal.
An Area of Impressive Snowfall. “Snow Wall”
- Area:
- 15 min walk from Murodo Terminal ground floor exit
- Viewing time:
- April 15 to June 25
One of Tateyama Kurobe’s iconic springtime sights is the “snow wall”. Created by clearing snow in the high snowfall Tateyama area, these towering white walls can reach heights of up to 20 m. Murodo’s cool temperatures mean the snow melts slowly and so the snow walls can be enjoyed until late June. We recommend visiting between late May and late June when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
Kurobe Dam, the Tallest Dam in Japan
- Area:
- Kurobe Dam
- Viewing time:
- April 15 to November
- Water release period:
- June 26 to October 15
The massive Kurobe Dam is the tallest dam in Japan. Experience its power by walking along the top of the 186-meter-high structure and watch the spectacular display as 10 tons a second of water gushes from the dam wall. On sunny days the sunlight refracting through the spray can create beautiful rainbows.
Stunning Scenery at the Cloud-top Terrace
- Area:
- Daikanbo
- Viewing time:
- April 15 to November
This spectacular (cliff-top) terrace is located halfway up the mountain. Beautiful fall leaves, viewed from the terrace, are a famed seasonal sight in Tateyama Kurobe. The emerald green waters of Lake Kurobe create a stunning contrast against the changing colors of the seasonal plants.
Spectacular Views from the Panorama Terrace (Kurobedaira)
- Area:
- Kurobedaira
- Viewing time:
- April 15 to November
A quiet healing spot nestled in a mountain forest. Standing on the Kurobedaira Panorama Terrace to take in the surrounding area gives a sense of being at one with the mountains. At Kurobedaira Garden, the Tateyama Ropeway can be seen carrying travelers over the alpine plants. If you time it right, this is the ideal spot to see three seasons in a single view; snow above, fall leaves, and greenery below.
