Reader’s Question: I’m considering going to an exhibition in Toyama, and I hope to do some sightseeing while I’m there. Since I’m coming from a nearby prefecture, I plan to visit Toyama Station for the day. Are there any recommended
tourist spots I can reach using public transportation? I don’t intend to visit Toyama Castle. Additionally, I would like to know if there are any good restaurants near Toyama Station where I can enjoy delicious seafood, especially since there aren’t many places that offer a variety of seafood options.
Exploring Toyama: A Day Trip Adventure
Ah, Toyama! It’s one of those hidden gems that often gets overshadowed by other more famous Japanese cities. But let me tell you, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the vicinity of this prefecture, you absolutely need to take a day to explore. My recent trip to Toyama was sparked by an exhibition that caught my eye, but of course, I had to sprinkle in some sightseeing and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of eating too!
After a quick train ride from a nearby prefecture, I found myself at Toyama Station, which is a central hub and a great starting point for your adventures. Located right in the heart of the city, you can easily hop on public transportation to explore various tourist attractions.
Public Transportation: Your Best Friend
First things first, let’s talk about public transportation. I’m not going to lie—Japan has one of the most efficient transit systems I’ve ever encountered, and Toyama is no exception. The Toyama Light Rail and the local buses are super convenient. Plus, the people are friendly and often willing to help you if you look a little lost (which I might have been, not gonna lie!).
One of my top recommendations is to take the light rail to the Toyama Glass Art Museum. It’s just a quick ride from the station! This museum is a beautiful blend of modern architecture and the art of glass-making. I didn’t expect to be so captivated by glass sculptures, but trust me, when you see the way light interacts with those pieces, you’ll be amazed. Plus, it’s a great place to escape from any unpredictable weather. It was raining a bit when I visited, but I didn’t mind because the museum’s ambiance was so nice.
After immersing myself in the stunning art, I hopped back on the light rail and headed to the Kansui Park. This is a lovely spot to enjoy nature right in the city. The park has beautiful ponds, walking paths, and even some seasonal flowers. I took a leisurely stroll and soaked in the tranquility, which was a nice contrast to the bustling energy of Toyama Station.
Local Cuisine: Seafood Galore!
Now, let’s talk about the food because, let’s be real, food is one of the best parts of travel! Since you mentioned that you’re hoping to enjoy some delicious seafood, you’re in for a treat. Toyama is renowned for its fresh seafood, thanks to its location by the sea.
After my park adventure, I was feeling pretty hungry and had heard great things about a local restaurant called “Sushi Yama.” It’s just a short walk from Toyama Station, which makes it super convenient. If you love sushi (and who doesn’t?), you have to try their “Sushi Tasting Platter.” I was blown away by the freshness! The fish practically melted in my mouth—it was like a little piece of heaven. I was taken aback by how they served me a variety of seafood, including some local specialties like shiroebi (white shrimp) and masunosuke (a type of trout). Who knew seafood could be so exciting?
And let’s not forget the sake! The restaurant had an extensive sake menu that paired perfectly with my sushi. I ended up chatting with the owner, who was more than happy to recommend a local brew that complemented my meal beautifully. It was such a nice touch, and it made me feel right at home.
More Sightseeing: A Bit Off the Beaten Path
After indulging in all that delicious seafood, it was time to walk off the meal. I decided to take a short bus ride to the “Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route,” which is a bit more of a trek, but totally worth it for the views. It’s known for its stunning mountain scenery, especially in the spring and autumn. However, I didn’t have enough time to explore the whole route on this trip, so I just soaked in the breathtaking views from the nearby Tateyama station. I snapped a bunch of photos that I’m sure my friends will be envious of!
On my way back, I made a pit stop at the Toyama Bay Aquarium, which is another great attraction accessible by bus. The aquarium features local marine life, and let me tell you, the jellyfish exhibit was mesmerizing! I could have watched those ethereal creatures for hours. It made me reflect on how important it is to preserve our oceans and the beautiful life within them.
A Sweet Ending
With my day winding down, I realized I needed a sweet treat to cap off my adventure. I wandered back towards Toyama Station and stumbled upon a little café called “Kakigori no Kazu.” They specialize in shaved ice desserts, which sounded like the perfect way to cool off after a day filled with excitement and exploration. The flavor options were endless, but I ended up trying the matcha with sweet red bean—oh my goodness, it was divine! The texture was so fluffy, and it felt like eating a cloud.
As I sat in the café, savoring my dessert and watching the world go by outside, I reflected on my day. Toyama wasn’t just a stopover for me; it became a delightful experience filled with art, nature, and, of course, food! I walked back to Toyama Station with a happy belly and a camera full of memories.
Final Thoughts
If you ever find yourself in the region, I wholeheartedly recommend taking a day to explore Toyama. The combination of art, natural beauty, and fantastic seafood makes it a perfect getaway. Plus, the ease of public transportation means you can fit a lot into a single day.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and head to Toyama! Whether you’re into museums, parks, or food (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), you won’t be disappointed. Just remember to leave some room for that incredible sushi!
Happy travels!
