Reader’s Question:

Recommended Tourist Spots Near Niigata in Toyama Prefecture

Are there any recommended tourist spots in the area of Toyama Prefecture closer to Niigata? I have a family with a baby, a preschooler, and a second grader.

Recommended Cuisine
and Ramen

I would also like to know about recommended dining options, including ramen.

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Toyama Prefecture Near Niigata

If you’re planning a trip to Japan and wondering what to do around Niigata, let me tell you—you’re in for a treat! This region is packed with stunning landscapes, delicious food, and family-friendly activities that will make your trip unforgettable. I recently took my family on a little adventure around Toyama Prefecture, which is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Niigata, and let me share all the magical experiences we had.

Adventure Awaits: Toyama’s Stunning Landscapes

First things first, let’s talk about the breathtaking scenery. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Alpine route? With a baby and little kids?!” But trust me, this is a family-friendly spot that can be enjoyed by everyone! We started our day early, hopped on a train from Toyama City, and soon found ourselves surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping views. The best part? The cable car ride! My kids giggled with excitement as we floated above the mountains, and even the baby was mesmerized by the scenery. The fresh air and panoramic vistas were invigorating, and I found myself taking a million photos. Don’t forget your camera—the views are postcard-worthy! Another great spot to consider is the stunning Kurobe Gorge. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the scenic train ride through the gorge, which offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. There are also plenty of walking trails that are suitable for families. Just keep an eye on the little ones near the edges—safety first!

Family-Friendly Fun at Toyama’s Parks

Now, if you’re looking for a more laid-back day, Toyama is home to some fantastic parks where kids can run around and burn off that endless energy. One of our favorites was the Toyama Family Park. It has playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a petting zoo! Watching the kids interact with the animals was such a joy. My preschooler couldn’t get enough of the goats, while my second grader was fascinated by the bunnies. We packed a simple lunch from a local convenience store (conbini food is surprisingly good in Japan), and made a day of it. There’s something so relaxing about having a picnic surrounded by nature while the kiddos play. Plus, it gave us a chance to take a breather and enjoy some family bonding time.

Discovering Local Culture

Okay, let’s switch gears to culture because Toyama has some hidden gems that you absolutely cannot miss. One of the standout spots for us was the Toyama Glass Art Museum. It’s not every day you get to see such intricate glassworks, and the museum is super kid-friendly, with interactive exhibits that kept my little ones engaged. And if you’re in the mood for some local history, the Toyama Castle is worth a visit. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, and the castle grounds are perfect for the kids to run around. I loved pointing out the architecture and explaining a bit of history to my second grader, who’s at that inquisitive stage and loves asking questions. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby gardens, which bloom beautifully in spring. The cherry blossoms were in full swing during our visit, and they made for the perfect backdrop for family photos.

Food, Glorious Food: Toyama’s Culinary Delights

Now, let’s get to the most important part of any trip—food! Toyama is known for its seafood, and we indulged in some of the freshest sushi we’ve ever tasted. A local favorite is the Toyama Bay sushi, which you must try. The fish just melts in your mouth, and the kids loved the variety. But let’s not forget about ramen! Oh boy, the ramen in Toyama is something else. We stumbled upon a small ramen shop called “Ramen Kyu,” and it was a total hidden gem. The shop is tiny, but the aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make your mouth water. They have a special Toyama-style ramen made with light soy sauce and topped with the most tender chashu you can imagine. I watched my kids slurp up their noodles with glee, and I felt a sense of pride as they embraced the local cuisine. There’s something so heartwarming about sharing a bowl of ramen as a family—it’s communal, it’s warm, and it just feels right. Don’t forget to try the gyoza (dumplings) too; they were crispy and delicious! Afterward, we headed to a nearby cafe for dessert—because who doesn’t love mochi ice cream? My kids were in heaven, and honestly, so was I! The mochi was soft, chewy, and filled with creamy ice cream that just hit the spot.

Wrapping Up Our Toyama Adventure

As we wrapped up our trip, I couldn’t help but reflect on how special this experience was for our family. We laughed, we explored, and we made memories that I know we’ll cherish forever. Toyama is such a delightful destination for families, especially those traveling with little ones. Whether you’re marveling at the natural beauty, indulging in the local cuisine, or enjoying the rich culture, Toyama has a little something for everyone. So if you find yourself near Niigata, do yourself a favor and make a pit stop in Toyama. You won’t regret it! And hey, pack those comfy shoes—there’s a lot of walking to do, but trust me, every step is worth it. Happy travels, and may your adventure in Japan be filled with joy and delicious ramen!