Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information for the Limited Express Train "TATEYAMA"

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Toyama Chihō Railway's limited express train "TATEYAMA," which connects Dentetsu Toyama Station and Tateyama Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. As it serves as an access train to the gateway to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, 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 "TATEYAMA" is a limited express train connecting Dentetsu Toyama Station and Tateyama Station via the Toyama Chihō Railway Tateyama Line. Tateyama Station is the starting point on the Toyama Prefecture side of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, one of Japan's leading mountain sightseeing routes, and the "TATEYAMA" is used as an access train to it. The Toyama Chihō Railway is a private railway known by the nickname "Chitetsu" and has a network of lines in eastern Toyama Prefecture. From the train windows, passengers can enjoy the clear waters of the Jōganji River and the mountain range of the Tateyama Mountains that gradually come into view. From the final stop, Tateyama Station, passengers transfer to the Tateyama Cable Car and ascend towards Bijōdaira and Murodo. It is used by travelers seeking different mountain scenery in each season, such as the Snow Valley in spring, alpine plants in summer, and autumn foliage.

What is "TATEYAMA"?

"TATEYAMA" is a limited express train operated by the Toyama Chihō Railway that heads to Tateyama Station, the gateway to the sacred mountain of Tateyama. Tateyama is counted as one of Japan's three sacred mountains, along with Mount Fuji and Mount Hakusan, and has been an object of worship since ancient times. The Tateyama Line runs from the Toyama Plain, along the Jōganji River upstream, to Tateyama Station nestled in the mountains. Near Iwakuraji Station is the Oyama Shrine Maetate Shrine, which was a center of Tateyama worship and still conveys the history of mountain worship. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a mountain sightseeing route that runs from Tateyama Station to Ōgizawa Station in Nagano Prefecture, using a combination of cable cars, highland buses, trolleybuses, and ropeways.

Train Features and Popular Points

The appeal of "TATEYAMA" lies in the fact that you can travel from Toyama city center to the entrance of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route without changing trains. Murodo Plateau, a highlight of the Alpine Route, is located at an altitude of approximately 2,450 meters, and in spring you can walk through a massive snow wall called the "Snow Valley." In some years, the Snow Valley wall can reach a height of nearly 20 meters and is known as a rare landscape on a global scale. In summer at Murodo, you can enjoy the reflection of Tateyama in Mikuriga Pond and fields of alpine flowers. In autumn, the area from Midagahara to Bijodaira is colored with autumn leaves, and the view from the windows of the plateau bus is spectacular. From the bus window, you can enjoy the beauty of the Jōganji River gorge and the Tateyama mountain range towering beyond the rural landscape. Around Bijodaira Station, there is a primeval forest of giant Tateyama cedar trees, and you can stroll along the walking trails. The Tateyama Cable Car connects Tateyama Station and Bijodaira Station in about 7 minutes, climbing a steep slope with a maximum gradient of 29 degrees. The Tateyama Highland Bus, heading from Bijodaira to Murodo, climbs an altitude difference of approximately 1,500 meters in one go. Midagahara is a Ramsar Convention-registered wetland with a vast high-altitude marsh, where you can enjoy strolling along the boardwalks. Mikuriga Pond in Murodo is a beautiful crater lake that reflects the Tateyama mountain range on its surface.

Timetable for "TATEYAMA"

Downbound (towards Tateyama Station) Timetable

Upbound (towards Dentetsu Toyama Station) Timetable

The "TATEYAMA" train operates several times a day in each direction. Since the schedule may change depending on the season and timetable revisions, it's best to check the latest schedule 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 before your arrival.

• Limited Express Fare, Ticket and Timetable - Ekitan

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Days When the Service is Suspended.

The number of trains on the Tateyama Line changes in accordance with the operating season of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. The Alpine Route is closed entirely during the winter (generally from December to mid-April), so if you are planning to visit Murodo, you need to check the opening period. During the winter, train services may be suspended or delayed due to snow.

Operating Sections of "TATEYAMA"

Main Sections

• Dentetsu Toyama 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)

Tateyama Station is the starting point on the Toyama Prefecture side of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Adjacent to the station is the Tateyama Cable Car station, which connects to Bijodaira Station in about 7 minutes. At the Tateyama Caldera Erosion Control Museum, you can learn about the formation of the Tateyama Caldera and the history of erosion control projects that have continued for over 100 years. The Oyama Shrine Maetate Shrine in Iwakuraji is a center of Tateyama worship, and its magnificent shrine remains. The Jōganji River is known as one of Japan's fastest-flowing rivers, and the scenery along the river is one of the highlights. Mikurigaike Onsen in Murodo is known as the highest-altitude hot spring inn in Japan, and overnight stays on the mountain are possible. Shomyo Falls boasts the greatest drop in Japan at 350 meters and can be accessed by bus from Tateyama Station. If you travel through the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, you can also extend your trip to Kurobe Dam via Ogizawa Station on the Nagano Prefecture side. Kurobe Dam is Japan's tallest arch dam, standing at 186 meters high, and features tourist-oriented water releases during the summer months. Toyama City has a tram system, allowing visitors to combine city sightseeing with mountain excursions. Near Dentetsu Toyama Station, you can find Toyama Castle Park and the Glass Museum, making it a great place to spend time before or after your tram ride.

Stations Served by "TATEYAMA"

Main Stations Served

• Dentetsu Toyama Station
• Terada Station
• Iwakuraji Station
• Chigaki Station
• Tateyama Station

Fares for "TATEYAMA"

Representative Section Fare

Breakdown of Basic Fare Ticket and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "TATEYAMA" 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 short journeys. If you use a non-reserved seat, 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 peak and off-peak seasons like JR. The fare is divided into the "basic fare ticket" 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.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Tickets

If you plan to use the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, you will need to purchase a separate ticket that includes the cable car and highland bus. During peak seasons, departure times for the Alpine Route may be specified, so advance reservations are recommended. The limited express fare for the Toyama Chihō Railway is not included in the Alpine Route ticket. If you arrive at Toyama Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Dentetsu Toyama Station is adjacent to Toyama Station and you can transfer on foot.

How to Buy Tickets for "TATEYAMA"

Purchase at Station Ticket Offices or Ticket Machines

Limited express tickets for the "TATEYAMA" train can be purchased at the ticket offices of major Toyama Chihō Railway stations. They are typically purchased together with the basic fare ticket. When making a reservation, you specify the date of travel, section of travel, 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.

 

 

Purchase Onboard

If you are traveling during hours when the station 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 peak seasons, 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 a pass for the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route with accommodation.

How to Buy for Foreign Tourists

The "TATEYAMA" train is operated by the Toyama Chihō Railway and is therefore not covered by the JAPAN RAIL PASS. Even if you travel to Toyama Station with the JAPAN RAIL PASS, you will need to purchase a separate basic fare ticket and limited express ticket from Dentetsu Toyama Station onward. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route sometimes offers special tickets for foreign tourists. Some stations have ticket offices that provide information in foreign languages. Special tickets for foreign tourists may have limited purchase conditions and sales locations, so it is advisable to check before traveling.

Do I Need to Get a Physical Ticket?

Toyama Chihō Railway's limited express tickets are primarily paper tickets purchased at station ticket offices or onboard the train. Ticketless services, which allow boarding by simply showing a smartphone screen, are limited. If you receive a paper ticket, it is best to pick it up with plenty of time to spare, rather than just before boarding. Tickets cannot be reissued if lost, so please keep them safe during your journey.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

On Toyama Chihō Railway lines, the usability of transportation IC cards is limited. They may not be usable at stations on the Tateyama Line, so it's best to be prepared to purchase tickets with cash or from a ticket 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.

Seating Information for "TATEYAMA"

Seat Type

The "TATEYAMA" train operates primarily with non-reserved 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 your travel companions, booking together makes it easier to secure adjacent seats.

Distinctive Seating

The trains running on the Tateyama Line are mainly those with large windows that allow passengers to enjoy the mountain scenery. Most seats have reclining functions, making them popular with travelers equipped for mountain climbing and hiking. Amenities vary depending on the train set and car, so the availability of power outlets and Wi-Fi differs from car to car. There is a section where you can see the flow of the Jōganji River on the left side in the direction of travel, which is a good point to consider when choosing a seat if you want to enjoy the scenery. During the climbing season, climbers with equipment and tourists ride the same train, and there is an atmosphere of excitement as they head towards the mountains. The scenery outside the window gradually becomes more mountainous, and as you approach Tateyama Station, it changes to a valley landscape. Window seats are suitable if you want to enjoy the scenery, while aisle seats are suitable if you prioritize ease of boarding and alighting. For long journeys, it is recommended to check the seat location in advance and make a reservation for a more comfortable experience.

Luggage Storage

Space for large luggage is limited. Large backpacks and suitcases for mountaineering will need to be placed in the space at your feet or at the ends of the carriage.

Barrier-Free Facilities

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.

 

 

Bento Boxes and Onboard Dining on "TATEYAMA"

There is no onboard sales service on the "TATEYAMA" train. It is recommended to purchase food and drinks in advance around Toyama Station. Around Toyama Station, there are shops selling bento boxes made with seafood from Toyama Bay, such as trout sushi and yellowtail sushi. There are also shops around Tateyama Station where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Murodo Terminal has a restaurant and shops where you can enjoy a meal at an altitude of 2,450 meters. Toyama Bay is known as a "natural fish farm" and is blessed with seasonal seafood such as white shrimp, firefly squid, and yellowtail. Tateyama soba is a popular local dish that can be easily enjoyed at Toyama Station and other locations. If you eat or drink on the train, please be considerate of others by avoiding foods with strong odors. Dispose of empty containers and trash in the trash cans on the train or in the trash cans at the station after disembarking.

Important Notes for Riding "TATEYAMA"

When using the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, it is important to pay attention to the route's operating period and the day's operating status. Even in midsummer, temperatures around Murodo can be low, and you may need warm clothing on some days. The Alpine Route's transportation can get crowded during peak season, so choosing an early morning service will allow for a more relaxed journey. If transferring from the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Toyama Station and Dentetsu Toyama Station are separate station buildings, so it's best to allow ample time for transfers. The fare system differs beyond Tateyama Station, so be sure to purchase a separate ticket for the Alpine Route. Before boarding, 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. Checking the time of the last return train will make it easier to plan your time on the mountaintop. Checking the train schedule on a site like Ekitan before boarding will allow you to calmly deal with delays or cancellations.

Summary

The "TATEYAMA" is a limited express train operated by the Toyama Chihō Railway, connecting Dentetsu Toyama Station and Tateyama Station, and is a major means of access to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. It is an easy-to-ride limited express train with mainly non-reserved seats, and the scenery from the windows overlooking the Jōganji River gorge and the Tateyama mountain range will be a highlight of your journey. It is used by travelers who come to see the seasonal mountain scenery, such as the Snow Valley and the alpine plants of Murodo Plateau.

Enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery at Tateyama, the gateway to a journey to Tateyama, one of Japan's three sacred mountains.

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.