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【Car Tour】Kurobe Gorge Railway and Unazuki Hot Spring Town Adventure
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Joined 2025
Explore Kurobe’s hidden gems by Suzuki Jimny. This private tour saves time and cost versus trains, offering a "greedy" itinerary connecting the gorge, coast, and highlands. Ride the Kurobe Gorge trolley, enjoy fresh seafood in Ikuji, and end at a scenic pasture for unique goat milk gelato. Perfect for authentic nature and flavors away from crowds.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Toyama Station/Your hotel
- Meeting in front of the ticket gates of Ainokaze Line JR of Toyama Station Drive to the Northern Alps in a compact 4WD Jimny.
Kurobe Gorge Railway
Board the iconic trolley train to navigate steep cliffs and bright red bridges.
Drive to the Coast
Transition from mountains to the sea in just 30 minutes.
Fishermen’s Lunch at "Uono-eki Ikuji"
Enjoy premium seasonal specialties like Firefly Squid and White Shrimp.
Kurobe Farm "Makiba-no-Kaze"
Head to the rolling hills for panoramic views and fresh farm-made gelato.
Ending Point
Return to Toyama Station/Your hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Car (Suzuki Jimny)
Gas fee
Toll fees
Entry & Activity Fees: Trolley tickets for both the guests and the guide (approx. 3,320 JPY per person).
Meals & Drinks: Lunch and pasture treats for both the guests and the guide (approx 1,500 - 3,000 JPY per person)
Souvenirs: Any personal shopping or snacks.
Gratuities (Tips): Tips are not included in the tour price. While not mandatory in Japan, they are greatly appreciated if you feel you received exceptional service.
Tour Important Information
Dress Code: The trolley features open-air carriages. Temperatures in the gorge are significantly lower than in the city, so please bring a warm, windproof jacket even in spring.
Vehicle & Group Size: This tour uses a Suzuki Jimny, a compact 4WD vehicle. It comfortably accommodates up to 2 guests. For groups of 3 or more, a vehicle upgrade and additional fees are required.
Trolley Operation: In April, the train typically operates on a shortened route (Unazuki to Nekomata) due to remaining snow. The full route to Keyakidaira usually opens in May.
Dietary Restrictions: Please inform me in advance of any food allergies or dietary restrictions (e.g., raw fish or shellfish allergies) so I can adjust the lunch location.
Physical Requirements: While most of the tour involves driving or riding the train, there is some light walking on uneven surfaces at the port and farm.
Booking Policy: Trolley tickets are subject to availability. Early booking is highly recommended.
Weather Conditions: In the event of extreme weather (heavy rain or strong winds), the trolley operation may be suspended. I will provide alternative indoor cultural experiences if this occurs.
Important message from the supplier
*Availability: To avoid any scheduling conflicts, please contact me via chat to confirm availability before making a direct booking. I appreciate your cooperation!
*Extended Areas: In addition to my regular guiding areas of Toyama and Kanazawa, I also offer customized tours in the Takayama and Hida areas of Gifu Prefecture. Please feel free to contact me for a personalized offer if you are planning to visit these regions.
*Flexibility: The tour itinerary may be subject to change due to weather conditions, traffic, or unforeseen circumstances. My priority is your safety and ensuring you have the best possible experience, so I appreciate your flexibility.
*Pick-up: Available from Toyama/Kanazawa stations or hotels. Please specify your location when booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Naoto K.
Hello! I’m Naoto. I was born and raised in the dramatic landscape of Toyama, with Kanazawa as my favorite weekend playground since my young-hood. I am thrilled that you are considering the Hokuriku region for your Japanese journey.
After living abroad and spending decades in Tokyo area, I returned to my roots with a clear mission: to share the authentic, soulful Japan that remains tucked away from the crowds. In Toyama and Kanazawa, you won’t just see history—you will feel it. This is a region of "hidden gems," where ancient traditions and pristine nature coexist in their purest form.
I specialize in taking you where the tour buses don’t go. Whether we are:
Unlocking Samurai Legacies: Exploring the hidden corridors of Kanazawa’s history and the delicate mastery of its gold-leaf artisans.
Savoring the Secret Harvest: Dining at secluded mountain retreats or tasting the "jewels of the sea" fresh from Toyama Bay.
Immersive Nature & Tradition: From the dramatic peaks of the Northern Alps to the quiet craftsmanship of woodcarving villages and local festivals.
Pop Culture & Local Legends: Diving into the world of manga, anime, and folklore known only to those who live here.
Because of my years overseas, I understand the curiosity and the "why" behind an international traveler's questions. I don’t just show you the sights; I translate the culture, bridging the gap between a visitor and a local. Every itinerary is 100% customized to your pace, your interests, and your sense of adventure.
Let’s step off the beaten path together. Reach out today, and let’s start planning your one-of-a-kind Japanese adventure!
[Qualifications]
In addition to the government licensed guide interpreter (English),
*Certified General Travel Services Manager
*Advanced Language Proficiency
EIKEN Grade 1 (Test in Practical English Proficiency - Top Level)
TOEIC: 985
TOEFL iBT: 108
*The Historical Proficiency Test (Japanese History, Grade 2)
Reviews
Marcelo R.
“Amazing and outstanding !”
Amazing day trip to Shirakawa-go & Inami with Naoto-san! We had an absolutely fantastic experience touring Shirakawa-go, and Inami town. The itinerary was perfectly paced — from the stunning gassho-style houses in Ogimachi Village and the breathtaking views from Shiroyama Viewpoint, to a delicious local lunch featuring trout sushi, Hida beef, and soba noodles. The highlight, though, was our guide, Naoto-san. His knowledge, warmth, and attention to detail made the whole day feel effortless and deeply memorable. He shared wonderful insights into the local culture and craftsmanship, especially during our visit to Zuisenji Temple in Inami, and made sure every moment was both informative and enjoyable. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the region — a truly sensational day!
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Naoto K.
Dear Marcelo and Julia, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a wonderful and heartfelt review! I am deeply touched by your kind words. It was an absolute pleasure guiding you both through Shirakawa-go and Inami. I am thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the scenic drive along the Shogawa River, the local cuisine, and the historic craftsmanship at Zuisenji Temple. That unexpected encounter with the young bear on our drive back was certainly a special memory we won't forget! Your cheerful energy, warmth, and bright smiles made the whole day effortless and truly enjoyable for me as well. I hope the remainder of your 3-week journey across Japan, including your visit to Nikko, brings you many more wonderful memories. If you or your family members ever visit Japan again in the future, it would be my absolute honor to welcome you back! Wishing you both safe and happy travels ahead. Warmest regards, Naoto
Ida P.
“An Exceptional Private Tour of Kanazawa”
We had a wonderful private tour of Kanazawa with Naoto, and we can't recommend him highly enough. From our very first messages, well before the tour itself, he was attentive and responsive, taking real care to understand our preferences. He then built a program around exactly what we were looking for, and it fit our needs perfectly. On the day, Naoto was an exceptional guide. His deep knowledge of Kanazawa brought every place we visited to life and made the difference between simply seeing the sights and truly appreciating them. The organization was flawless from start to finish. If you're looking for a guide in Kanazawa who listens, plans thoughtfully, and shares his expertise generously, Naoto is an outstanding choice. Thank you for a memorable day.
Naoto K.
Dear Ida, Thank you so much for your deeply kind and heartwarming review! It was an absolute pleasure meeting you and your family and guiding you through Kanazawa. I am truly delighted to hear that you enjoyed our customized itinerary and that the history and stories of the city resonated with you. Your thoughtful preparation and warm enthusiasm made our time together wonderful and enjoyable for me as well. I hope the rest of your time in Japan is filled with unforgettable memories, delicious food, and wonderful travels. If you or your family ever visit Japan again in the future, it would be my honor to welcome you back! Wishing you safe and happy travels, Naoto
Linda M.
“Great Kanazawa and surrounding mountains tour”
Naoto is a very professional and knowledgeable guide and he offered us a full day's programme that fit perfectly our needs and wishes. Although we had to cover several destinations and quite a lot of distance driving through the mountains, and we even had to make a detour due to traffic disruptions, he managed to fit everything planned in and offer alternatives for one of the destinations that became unreacheable. He combined the city tour with the driving tour wonderfully and got us to our ryokan in time for dinner. All this doubled by a really interesting dialogue and pleasant company. He had an amazing day together with Naoto, felt we were in very good hands from start to finish and appreciated also his easy going kind nature. All the best!
Naoto K.
Dear Linda and John, Thank you so much for your wonderful and thoughtful review! I am truly touched by your kind words. It was an absolute pleasure spending the day with you both and helping you explore Kanazawa and Gokayama. Despite the long drive and the unexpected road closure, your flexibility and positive energy made the journey smooth and enjoyable. I’m so glad we were able to adjust the itinerary seamlessly and get you to your ryokan in time to relax and enjoy your dinner. I also thoroughly enjoyed our conversations throughout the day—learning about your travels and sharing insights was a highlight for me as well. I hope you had a wonderful time in Takayama, enjoyed a delicious Hida beef lunch, and had a safe and memorable trip onward to Kyoto and beyond! Thank you again for choosing me as your guide. I hope our paths cross again in the future! Warmest regards, Naoto
$381/ per group
More tours by Naoto K.
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Kanazawa Must-See Tour: Geisha, Kenroku Park, Samurai Houses and Omicho Market
Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private walking tour. Ideal for first-time visitors to Kanazawa, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Geisha Tea House Street), Oyama Shrine which are all must-see places. The itinerary is completely customizable, including the tour length and the pick-up and drop-off locations.
Kanazawa Must-See Tour: Geisha, Kenroku Park, Samurai Houses and Omicho Market
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【Car Tour】World Heritage Shirakawago & Scenic Shogawa Gorge
A scenic day trip by private car from Toyama Station, combining a breathtaking River Cruise on the Shogawa River in Gokayama with a visit to Shirakawa-go - famous thatched roof house villages, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This experience focuses on natural and cultural immersion, allowing you to explore the traditional Japanese gasshō-zukuri village and savor authentic local cuisine.
【Car Tour】World Heritage Shirakawago & Scenic Shogawa Gorge
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Tateyama Alpine Route Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Escape the summer heat for the cool breezes of the peak, or witness the mountain slopes ablaze with autumn colors. This efficient 8-hour round trip from Toyama Station offers a generous 3-hour stay at Murodo for scenic hiking. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you will enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Japanese Alps. We utilize seamless Alpine Route transport to reach the highlands. Optional extension: Customize your tour to include a round trip to the spectacular Kurobe Dam!
Tateyama Alpine Route Private Tour with Licensed Guide
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Kanazawa Deep History Tour: Castle, Samurai, Ninja, Temple Secrets
Discover the hidden facets of Kanazawa on this hardcore 8-hour journey into the city’s strategic past. Using Kochizu (historical maps), we trace the ancient defense lines and tactical layouts that shaped the samurai era. From the ingenious traps of the Ninja Temple to hands-on iron shuriken training, this tour offers a deep dive into the grit and wisdom of the Kaga Domain. Enjoy local soul food and pay tribute to Lord Maeda Toshiie on a mission for true history seekers.
Kanazawa Deep History Tour: Castle, Samurai, Ninja, Temple Secrets
Other Popular Off the Beaten Path Tours in Toyama
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【Car Tour】Amaharashi Coast, Shogawa River Cruise, Big Buddha
Experience the stunning contrast of Toyama’s sea and mountains on this exclusive 8-hour private car tour. We visit the iconic Amaharashi Coast for breathtaking views of the Tateyama Alps over the ocean, followed by a brief stop at the majestic Takaoka Great Buddha. For lunch, enjoy a "farm-to-table" experience at a traditional farmhouse in Tonami. The day concludes with a serene Shogawa Gorge Cruise through scenic emerald waters. Enjoy a flexible, private journey through Toyama's hidden gems.
【Car Tour】Amaharashi Coast, Shogawa River Cruise, Big Buddha
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E-bike cycling
Toyama has abundant nature such as mountains and the Toyama bay. Usually tourists cannot access to the suburb of Toyama easily. We offer private cycling to the suburb area, like the vast paddy field and the coastline. Guests can access local spots by e-bike.
E-bike cycling
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