Yuki no Otani Walk 2026 (Snow Wall Walk)

A 500m walking course between snow walls up to 12m high. Special events for the 55th anniversary of the Alpine Route's full opening. Snow walls are tallest from opening day through Golden Week. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of the Northern Alps.

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route fully opened in 1971. The 'Yuki no Otani Walk' began as a public event showcasing the massive snow walls revealed by snow removal each April when the route reopens, and has become an iconic spring tradition of Tateyama.

The Yuki no Otani Walk was first held on April 26, 1994. It was created in response to tourists' requests to see the snow walls up close, when the then-director of the Tateyama Toll Road Management Office coordinated with Tateyama Kurobe Kanko and other organizations. Held annually from mid-April to late June to coincide with the Alpine Route's spring opening. Walking between snow walls nearly 20m high is popular with domestic and international tourists, and has become an established spring event representing Tateyama with over 30 years of history.

Tateyama Town, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama Prefecture. From Tateyama Station, take the cable car and highland bus (about 1 hour) to reach Murodo. About 1 hour from Toyama Station to Tateyama Station via Toyama Chiho Railway. Private cars can only go as far as Tateyama Station.

Extremely crowded during Golden Week, with cable car wait times sometimes reaching several hours. Late April weekdays are relatively less crowded and recommended. Taking early morning services helps avoid crowds.

Warm clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential at 2,450m elevation. Waterproof trekking shoes recommended as the ground is slippery. Bring rain gear as weather can change rapidly. Watch out for altitude sickness.