Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yuki-no-Oya is one of the most famous tourist spots on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture. It is a snow wall (snow colosseum) that can be seen from spring to early summer and is several meters to 20 meters high. The Tateyama region is an area that receives heavy snowfall in winter, and in order to clear the roads during the winter snow removal work, large amounts of snow are cleared away, and the resulting giant snow wall has become a tourist attraction.
Its charm lies in its overwhelming scale, the all-white landscape, the contrast between the remaining snow and the fresh greenery, and the impressive photos you can take up close. When it opens to the public every spring, it attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad. The height and appearance of the walls change depending on weather conditions and the amount of snow, so even the same "Snow Otani" looks different every year.
Highlights
- The snow walls range in height from a few meters to a maximum of 15 to 20 meters. There is a walking path that runs along the wall, allowing you to experience the overwhelming scale of the structure up close.
- The snow corridor and the designated walkway (walkway) are great photo spots. Photos with the white walls as a background are very photogenic.
- The contrast between the majestic mountain scenery around Murodo and the remaining snow is striking. If the weather is good, you can see the ridgeline and distant view of the Tateyama mountain range.
- It is possible to combine sightseeing with other spots visited along the Alpine Route (Daikanbo, Kurobe Dam, etc.).
- Seasonal events and tourist information (walking tours and photography guides) are sometimes held.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Yuki-no-Otani is located near Murodo on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. The general way to get there is as follows:
- From Tokyo or Hokuriku (Toyama side route):
- From JR Toyama Station, take the Toyama Chiho Railway (Dentetsu Toyama/Toyama Chiho Railway Main Line) towards Tateyama. Connect to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route at Tateyama Station (or transfer at Tateyama Station).
- From Tateyama Station, take the cable car, highland bus, trolley bus, ropeway, etc. to the final stop, Murodo (Murodo is near Yuki-no-Otani).
- From Nagano (Ogizawa/Nagano side route):
- There are also routes from Ogizawa to Kurobe Dam and Murodo by Kanden Tunnel Trolley Bus (operation may change) or bus.
- Estimated travel time: Approximately 2-3 hours from Toyama Station to Murodo, including transfers (depending on transport connections and waiting times).
- Access by car is subject to snow removal and traffic restrictions, so it is generally recommended to visit by public transportation (various vehicles on the Alpine Route).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around Yuki-no-Otani and taking photos only: 1-2 hours (taking photos and walking leisurely along the walls).
- Stroll around Murodo and view spots nearby: 2 to 4 hours.
- If you are traveling the entire Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route round trip or if you are taking a one-day tour including Kurobe Dam: Full day (approximately one day).
Nearby spots
- Murodo Walking Trail: Enjoy alpine plants and magnificent mountain scenery.
- Daikanbo: A viewing spot where you can get a panoramic view of Lake Kurobe and the surrounding mountains.
- Kurobe Dam: One of Japan's leading tourist dams. The water release (tourist water release) is a highlight in the summer.
- Midagahara: Landscapes of marshes and highlands, and seasonal flowers.
- Around Tateyama Station and Tateyama Onsen: Relax in the hot springs or stay overnight in the area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Opening times and opening hours: Snow-Otani is open for a limited period each year, and is generally best viewed from mid-April to mid-June (this varies depending on the year and amount of snowfall). Please check the official Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route website for the latest opening dates and operating information before visiting.
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during Golden Week and on weekends. There are long lines at the photo spots, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to go early in the morning or on a weekday.
- What to wear and bring: The Murodo area is at a high altitude and the temperature is low (around 0-10°C even in spring, and it is often windy), so be sure to bring warm clothing (down jacket or windbreaker), gloves, a hat, and non-slip shoes. It's easy to get sunburned due to the reflection of the snow, so it's a good idea to bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Altitude sickness: Murodo is at an altitude of around 2,400 meters, so there is a risk of altitude sickness. If you have a chronic illness or are concerned about it, please do not push yourself, move slowly, and make sure to stay hydrated.
- Safety and Entry Restrictions: No-entry areas may be set up due to snow removal work or maintenance. Please follow the instructions and signs of staff and do not enter or take photographs across ropes or fences.
- Garbage and Environmental Protection: In order to protect the environment, please be sure to take your trash home with you or dispose of it in designated areas.
- Traffic delays and cancellations: Services may be temporarily suspended or delayed during bad weather. Please plan your trip with ample time, and be aware of accommodation arrangements and traffic conditions on your return journey.
- Drone flying: Unauthorised drone flying may be prohibited in national parks and special areas. If you plan to use a drone, be sure to check the regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
*Please be sure to check the official Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route website and the tourist guides for Toyama Prefecture and Tateyama Town for the latest operation information, opening dates, and event information before making your plans.
