Toyama Prefecture | A Land of Water and Craftsmanship at the Foot of the Tateyama Mountains

Toyama Prefecture, located on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu, is a region blessed with natural beauty—bordered by the Toyama Bay to the north and the majestic Tateyama Mountain Range to the south.

The area’s unique terrain and climate have nurtured pure water and abundant natural resources, which have long supported the lives and culture of its people.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is one of Toyama’s most iconic tourist attractions. Visitors flock here year-round to witness spectacular seasonal landscapes, such as the towering snow walls of spring and the vibrant autumn foliage. The 3,000-meter-class peaks are not only breathtaking but have also been revered as sacred mountains since ancient times.

Toyama Bay, on the other hand, is renowned for its rich marine bounty, including winter yellowtail (kanburi), firefly squid (hotaruika), and white shrimp (shiroebi), earning it the nickname “natural live fish tank.” The abundant, crystal-clear water flowing from the mountains supports both fishing and agriculture, making the region ideal for producing high-quality rice and sake.

Toyama is also known for its long tradition of practical wisdom and craftsmanship that enrich daily life—most notably the “okusuri” (household medicine) culture that dates back to the Edo period. In the city of Takaoka, over 400 years of artisanal heritage live on in Takaoka copperware and Takaoka lacquerware, where expert artisans continue to practice sophisticated metal casting and delicate decorative techniques. The region is also home to traditional crafts like Echū washi paper and Inami woodcarving, each reflecting the natural beauty and character of its place of origin.

A fusion of nature’s blessings and human artistry—Toyama’s quiet yet powerful cultural presence leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.