Japan's tallest dam — 186 metres of sheer concrete arching across an emerald gorge — is reached by a dramatic combination of mountain railway and electric trolley bus deep inside the Alps. The discharged water arcs 60 metres into the void below; the scale is staggering.
What to expect
Your guide-driver collects you at the pier and heads east into the mountains. At Ogizawa you board the Kanden Tunnel Electric Bus — zero-emissions through solid granite — emerging to the thunderous sight of the dam. Walk the crown, descend to the lookout deck directly beneath the discharge arc, and take the Kurobe Lake pleasure boat for an alpine panorama before the return journey. Arrange a riverside river-trout bento for lunch.
Good to know
The dam's famous water discharge runs mid-June to mid-October — confirm dates when booking. Full-day commitment of 9–10 hours; coordinate all-aboard time precisely with your guide from the outset.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Toyama — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.