"ALPEN" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Toyama Chihō Railway's limited express train "ALPEN," which connects Unazuki Onsen Station and Tateyama Station. It includes timetables, fares for major sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, whether tickets need to be issued, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as a convenient train for accessing the sightseeing areas connected by the direct route between Unazuki Onsen and Tateyama, this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.

The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, and ticket sales conditions may change, so please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before using the service.

The "ALPEN" is a limited express train that connects Unazuki Onsen Station and Tateyama Station via the Toyama Chihō Railway's Main Line and Tateyama Line. Its greatest feature is that it connects Unazuki Onsen, the gateway to Kurobe Gorge, and Tateyama Station, the starting point of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, without any transfers. Normally, traveling from Unazuki Onsen to Tateyama requires a transfer at stations such as Terada Station, but with the "ALPEN," you can travel directly. As a train connecting two of Toyama Prefecture's leading mountain tourist destinations, it operates mainly during the high season. From the train windows, you can enjoy the rural landscape of the Toyama Plain and the Tateyama Mountain Range stretching out behind it. It is a convenient option for travelers who want to visit both the Kurobe Gorge and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in a single trip.

What is "ALPEN"?

"ALPEN" is a limited express train operated by Toyama Chihō Railway, named after the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. It plays a vital role in directly connecting Unazuki Onsen and Tateyama, two major tourist destinations in eastern Toyama Prefecture. The Toyama Chihō Railway's Main Line and Tateyama Line diverge at Terada Station, and "ALPEN" runs directly between the two lines via Terada Station. This direct service makes it easier to combine a sightseeing trip that includes the Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley train and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Since the train operates mainly during the high season, it is essential to check the operating days when planning your itinerary.

Train features and popular points

The appeal of the "ALPEN" train lies in its convenience, allowing you to travel from Unazuki Onsen to Tateyama without changing trains. This makes it easy to plan an itinerary, such as enjoying the Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley train the day before heading straight to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. From the train windows, you can enjoy the clear waters of the Jōganji River and the ridgeline of the Tateyama Mountain Range seen across the rice fields. Unazuki Onsen is a hot spring resort that developed along the Kurobe River and is known for its colorless, transparent, weakly alkaline hot spring water. Murodo Plateau on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is located at an altitude of approximately 2,450 meters and offers different scenery in each season, such as the snow-covered valley in spring, alpine plants in summer, and autumn foliage. Uozu City along the route is a town facing the Sea of Japan, known for its mirages and schools of firefly squid. Toyama Chihō Railway is also known for operating unique trains acquired from other companies, attracting attention from railway enthusiasts. By taking the Tateyama Cable Car and then the Tateyama Kogen Bus, you can quickly ascend to Murodo Plateau at an altitude of 2,450 meters. The Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley train has both open-air passenger cars without windows and passenger cars with windows. Unazuki Onsen has a footbath, which you can easily stop by between sightseeing in the gorge. There are many sights to see around Murodo, such as the high-altitude wetlands of Midagahara and the crater lake of Mikurigaike.

"ALPEN" Timetable

* "ALPEN" operates seasonally, mainly during the high season.

Downbound (towards Tateyama Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Unazuki Onsen Station) Timetable

The "ALPEN" train operates seasonally (a few trains per day). Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest timetable on the Ekitan website before boarding. There are more trains during the morning and evening rush hours, while the intervals between trains may be longer during the daytime. If you have connecting trains or buses, it's advisable to choose connections that allow ample time for connections.

• Limited Express Fares, Tickets, and Timetables - Ekitan

Important Notes on Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The "ALPEN" train is a seasonal train that operates in conjunction with the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route's operating season. Since it only operates on limited days, please be sure to check the operating days if you plan to ride it. The Alpine Route is closed during the winter season (generally from December to mid-April).

"ALPEN" Operating Section

Main Sections

• Unazuki Onsen Station to Terada Station (Toyama Chihō Railway Main Line)
• Terada Station to Iwakuraji Station (Toyama Chihō Railway Tateyama Line)
• Iwakuraji Station to Tateyama Station (Toyama Chihō Railway Tateyama Line)

Unazuki Onsen Station is adjacent to the starting station of the Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley train. The sight of the trolley train crossing the Shin-Yamabiko Bridge is a beloved and iconic scene of Unazuki Onsen. At Tateyama Station, you can transfer to the Tateyama Cable Car and ascend towards Bijodaira and Murodo. Shōmyō Falls boasts the greatest drop in Japan at 350 meters and can be accessed by bus from Tateyama Station. At the Tateyama Caldera Erosion Control Museum, you can learn about the formation of the Tateyama Caldera and the history of erosion control projects. The Ōyama Shrine Maetate-sha in Iwakuraji retains a magnificent shrine building as a center of Tateyama worship. Uozu Aquarium is known as the oldest existing aquarium in Japan and has an extensive collection of deep-sea creatures from Toyama Bay. At the Kurobe River Electric Power Museum, you can learn about the history of the construction of the Kurobe Dam and the records of the people involved in power development. Around Keyakidaira Station, there are open-air baths by the river and walking trails along the cliffs. Kurobe Dam is Japan's tallest arch dam, standing at 186 meters high, and tourist-oriented water releases take place during the summer. Trams run through Toyama City, making it possible to combine sightseeing with a trip around the city.

"ALPEN" Stations Served

Main Stations Served

• Unazuki Onsen Station
• Dentetsu Kurobe Station
• Shin-Uozu Station
• Kamiichi Station
• Terada Station
• Iwakuraji Station
• Tateyama Station

"ALPEN" Fares

Representative Section Fares

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge

The fare for the "ALPEN" train is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the limited express surcharge. Toyama Chihō Railway's limited express surcharges are set low, making it easy to use even for long-distance journeys. If you use unreserved seats, you do not need to reserve a seat if you purchase a basic fare ticket and a limited express ticket. The fare is calculated at the time of ticket purchase based on the distance of the journey. Limited express tickets are generally purchased together with basic fare tickets. Child fares are set at approximately half the adult fare. Private railway limited express surcharges are set according to the journey section and do not fluctuate with high and off-peak seasons like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare" for the journey to the destination itself and the "limited express surcharge" for riding the limited express train. Note that you cannot ride the limited express train with just a basic fare ticket, as you must purchase both.

When combining Kurobe Gorge and Tateyama

You will need to purchase separate tickets for the Kurobe Gorge Railway's trolley train and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. During high season, boarding times may be restricted for both, so advance reservations are recommended. The Kurobe Gorge Railway is closed during the winter, so itineraries that include both must be planned during periods when their operating seasons overlap.

How to Buy Tickets for "ALPEN"

Purchasing at Ticket Offices or Ticket Machines

Tickets for the "ALPEN" limited express train can be purchased at ticket offices at major Toyama Chihō Railway stations. As this is a seasonal train, please check the operating days before purchasing. When making a reservation, you will need to specify the date of travel, travel section, train name, and number of passengers, and then select your seats. Payment can be made by credit card, and cash is also accepted depending on the purchase method. Changes and refunds after booking are subject to certain conditions and fees.

 

 

Purchasing Onboard

If you are traveling during hours when the ticket offices are closed, you may be able to purchase your limited express ticket onboard. Ticket machines are often multilingual, making them easy to use even if you don't understand Japanese. At the ticket office, simply tell the staff your destination and desired departure time, and they will guide you to the appropriate train. During high season, ticket offices can get crowded, so it's best to arrive with plenty of time to spare.

Travel Agencies

Major travel agencies offer travel packages that combine visits to the Kurobe Gorge and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

How to Purchase for International Tourists

The "ALPEN" train is operated by Toyama Chihō Railway and is therefore not covered by the JAPAN RAIL PASS. You will need to purchase separate tickets for the entire journey, including both the basic fare and the limited express fare. Some station ticket offices offer assistance in foreign languages. Special tickets for international tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it's best to check before you travel.

Is a Physical Ticket Required?

Toyama Chihō Railway's limited express tickets are primarily paper tickets purchased at ticket offices or onboard the train. If you are receiving a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up well in advance of your departure, rather than immediately before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments Be Used?

On Toyama Chihō Railway lines, the usability of transportation IC cards is limited. It's best to be prepared to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket vending machine. Transportation IC cards can sometimes be used across regions due to the nationwide interoperability service. However, the usable area is determined by each railway company, so be sure to check in advance whether your journey is within the service area.

Contactless payment via credit card is not available for boarding at ticket gates.

"ALPEN" Seating Information

Seat Types

The "ALPEN" train operates primarily with unreserved seating, although some services offer reserved seating. When booking, you may be able to choose between window and aisle seats. If you wish to sit next to a companion, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The trains used for the "ALPEN" service have large windows, making it easy to enjoy the scenery outside. Most seats have a reclining function, ensuring a comfortable journey even for trips of around two hours. Amenities vary depending on the train set and car, so the availability of power outlets and Wi-Fi differs from car to car. On clear days, the view from the windows on the Tateyama Mountain Range side is breathtaking. For approximately two hours from Unazuki Onsen to Tateyama, the scenery outside the window changes from townscapes on the Sea of Japan side to mountainous landscapes. As it is a direct service without transfers, it is a convenient train for travelers with large luggage. Window seats are suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable for those who prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location and make a reservation in advance for a more comfortable experience.

Large Luggage Storage

Space for large luggage is limited. Suitcases and hiking backpacks will need to be placed in the space at your feet or at the ends of the car.

Accessibility Features

Some stations may have steps between the platform and the train. If you are using a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact Toyama Chihō Railway in advance. Multipurpose rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities may vary depending on the train car and train set.

 

 

Enjoy Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Dining on "ALPEN"

"ALPEN" does not offer onboard sales services. It is recommended to purchase food and drinks before boarding, either at Unazuki Onsen Station or Toyama Station. Toyama's specialty, Masu-no-sushi, is a type of pressed sushi wrapped in bamboo leaves and is known nationwide. Around Unazuki Onsen Station, there are souvenir shops selling hot spring manju (steamed buns) and local sweets. There are also shops around Tateyama Station where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Toyama Bay is known as a "natural fish farm" and is blessed with seasonal seafood such as white shrimp, firefly squid, and yellowtail. White shrimp tempura and sashimi are specialties that you should definitely try when visiting Toyama. If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors to ensure a pleasant experience. Please dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or at the station after disembarking.

Points to Note When Riding "ALPEN"

Since the "ALPEN" train operates seasonally, be sure to check the operating days before planning your itinerary. The journey from Unazuki Onsen to Tateyama takes about two hours, so it's a good idea to bring drinks and other necessities. Transportation on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route can get crowded during high season, so choosing an early morning service will allow for a more relaxed journey. Even in mid-summer, temperatures around Murodo can be low, and you may need warm clothing on some days. Both the Kurobe Gorge Railway and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route are closed during the winter. Before boarding, be sure to check the train name, car number, and seat number printed on your ticket. If you are bringing large luggage, please use the luggage racks or overhead compartments to avoid blocking the aisle. Onboard, it is good manners to keep phone calls to a minimum so as not to disturb other passengers.

Since there is no onboard service, be sure to prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. Because the number of trains is limited, it's also a good idea to check your return transportation options. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will help you calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The "ALPEN" is a limited express train operated by Toyama Chihō Railway, directly connecting Unazuki Onsen Station and Tateyama Station. It's a convenient train for sightseeing, connecting the Kurobe Gorge and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, two major mountain tourist destinations in eastern Toyama Prefecture, without transfers. As it operates seasonally, mainly during the high season, be sure to check the operating days before planning your itinerary.

Enjoy a magnificent journey connecting Toyama's mountainous landscapes, from Kurobe Gorge to Tateyama, on the "ALPEN" train.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors to Japan.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.