The Hokuriku region of Japan boasts many breathtaking natural landscapes, from Kamikōchi and Shirakawa-go to Engetsu Island. Each is a hidden gem worth visiting. During autumn, you can even witness the stunning sight of maple leaves intermingling with snow scenery in the “Japanese Alps” of Tateyama Kurobe. This time, the new-generation internet celebrity known as a ‘Japan Expert,’ Jarvis Chow (Jarvis), will lead a tour for Wing On Travel, taking everyone to experience the autumn beauty of Tateyama Kurobe.+Osaka — here are his top recommended attractions.
Recommended Hokuriku Attractions: Tateyama Kurobe
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The Japanese Alps are located in the Hokuriku region of Japan and are a famous mountain sightseeing route. Mount Tateyama, standing at an elevation of 3,015 meters, is regarded as one of Japan’s “sacred mountains” along with Mount Fuji and Mount Hakusan, forming a magnificent natural landscape together with the Kurobe Gorge. Tateyama Kurobe is only open to visitors during spring, summer, and autumn each year, so if you wish to see this beautiful part of Japan, be sure to plan your visit within the opening season. Within the 90-kilometer stretch of the Tateyama Kurobe mountain range, there are numerous stunning natural sights connected by various modes of transportation including trolley buses and aerial cable cars. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the continuous mountain ranges from the Okuhida Viewpoint at an altitude of about 2,300 meters. From late September to late October each year, you can also take in the spectacular view of red leaves blending with white snow. Tateyama Kurobe also holds several “Japan’s No. 1” distinctions, such as Kurobe Lake, situated in the deepest V-shaped valley of Tateyama and being Japan’s highest-altitude lake, while the majestic Kurobe Dam is also the “largest arch dam in Japan.” In just one day, you can take in some of Japan’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
Not Just Shirakawa-go and the Kurobe Dam – There’s More to See!
Shirakawa-go has become a popular new destination for many Hong Kong travelers in recent years. Nestled at the foot of Mount Hakusan in Gifu Prefecture and surrounded by mountains, the village offers picturesque scenery. Over a hundred houses in the village were built entirely by hand without using a single nail and preserve Japan’s traditional “gassho-zukuri” architectural style. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is a must-visit attraction when traveling in Japan.
And besides Shirakawa-go, the Kurobe Dam is also a sight to behold. Standing 186 meters tall with a dam length of 492 meters, it is Japan’s largest arch dam — an awe-inspiring feat of engineering where nature and human endeavor meet.
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Recommended Hokuriku Attractions: Toyama Prefectural Route 5 Water Park
If you’re a fan of Starbucks, you definitely shouldn’t miss this branch, recognized as one of the “most beautiful Starbucks in the world.” Located in the Toyama Prefectural Route 5 Canal Circular Park, this Starbucks features soft color tones, and through its floor-to-ceiling glass windows, you can enjoy views of the canal and Tenmon Bridge — making it a great spot for photos. The Hokuriku region also offers countless unique attractions such as Engetsu Island and Kenrokuen Garden, all waiting for you to explore in person. If you want to experience a different side of Hokuriku and Osaka, the latest tour package from Wing On Travel, “Jarvis Chow Takes You on a 5-Day Autumn Tour of Tateyama Kurobe & Osaka” (Tour Code: AJHJA05N／X／XC), could be a great choice.
The star-studded tour departing on September 29 will be led by “Japan Expert” Jarvis Chow, who will guide participants to discover the beauty of Hokuriku, offering fun, food, and the most authentic Japanese experiences. Additionally, Jarvis has filmed travel specials for Tateyama Kurobe, Kyushu, and Okinawa. If you’re interested in traveling independently to these three destinations, be sure to check out Wing On Travel’s website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel to see the unique charm of Japan. For more information, you can also watch the monthly “Japanese Language Classroom” personally planned by Jarvis Chow, which teaches commonly used Japanese phrases for travel, Japanese food culture, interesting trivia, and more. These videos can be found atWing On Travel’sYouTube ?/span>seen on the channel.