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If you want to enjoy more of Toyama, leave the city and visit these nearby communities. Experience the richness of the mountains with all five senses in Kamiichi Town, stand at the foot of the Tateyama Mountains in Tateyama Town, and learn all about the famous firefly squid in Namerikawa City. Each destination is easily accessible and has great places to eat.
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Dating back 1,300 years, Nisseki-ji is the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. The temple’s stunning stone statue of Fudo Myoo, which stands over three meters tall, is a Designated Important Cultural Property. Its three-storied pagoda, the oldest tower in Toyama Prefecture, remains unfinished without walls, exposing its interior. You can explore the the temple grounds, or try spiritual practices as waterfall training and sutra copying. Spending time in the heartland of mountain asceticism surrounded by majestic nature is certain to fill your spirit with tranquil energy.
You’ll definitely want to stop by this roadside noodle shop on the way to Oiwa Nisseki Temple. Their three-year aged somen noodles, which attract fans from all over Japan, have an exceptionally smooth and springy texture. The noodles are rinsed with spring water from Mt. Tateyama before being served in a special golden broth. You’re sure to be hooked with just one taste! The harmonious pairing of a stock made from dried skipjack tuna, kombu, flying fish, and other ingredients with the sweetness of Tonami soy sauce gives the broth a deeply complex flavor. The restaurant serves each bowl with a number of sides made with wild vegetables and other locally-sourced ingredients. It is well worth planning a trip just to eat here. It is truly a truly a singular culinary experience.
This mountain sightseeing route takes you straight through the Northern Alps, including the 3,000 meter-class Tateyama Mountains that can be seen from urban Toyama. It is traveled using several modes of transportation, including busses, cable cars, a ropeway, and other modes of transportation, so you can enjoy the spectacular scenery without any mountaineering experience. There are lots of things to see, and many ways to travel the route. We particularly recommend the amazing Yuki no Otani, which can be seen from April to late June. These 20-meter high snow walls are a truly spectacular sight. Make sure to also visit Mikurigaike Pond. The beauty of the reflections on this volcanic lake will take your breath away.
Ashikuraji is a small community in the foothills of the Tateyama Mountains. It has recently gained attention for brewing craft beers with local hops and spring water from its magnificent mountainous setting. A local volunteer group began brewing in 2021, and now sells three varieties: Green Label (Pale Ale), AKATOTTO (Hazy IPA), and Hakutaka (Golden Ale). What they all share is the rich aroma and bitterness of hops grown in Ashikuraji’s grand natural setting, as well as the drinkability of ultra-soft spring water. Give each of these smooth-tasting craft beers a try.
Namerikawa is a coastal city on the shores of Toyama Bay. Dedicated to the firefly squid, a specialty of Namerikawa, the Hotaruika Museum was built inside of Roadside Station Wave Park Namerikawa as a symbol of the region. Each of the small creatures (measuring just 4-7 cm in length) has nearly 1,000 photophores in its body, causing it to emit a fantastic blue-white light. The interactive museum is a place where you can learn about the biology of the firefly squid and the mysteries of Toyama Bay. It features exhibits that evoke the mysterious world of the deep seas where the squid live, including a theater where you can view live illumination shows.
(Firefly squid luminescence shows and live displays are limited to spring.)
Toyama Bay is the only place in the world where Japanese glass shrimp are caught. They are nicknamed the “Jewel of Toyama Bay” for their crystal-like translucence and pale pink color. When served as sashimi, they have a rich sweetness that melts in your mouth compared to other shrimp, making them one of Toyama's most famous sushi ingredients. Since their shells are thin and soft, they are also excellent served fried whole. A light sprinkling of salt enhances their sweetness while adding an enjoyable crunchy texture, making them an excellent partner for alcoholic beverages.
