Toyama Prefecture is a place that despite, not being the most familiar place to travelers, is packed with many things to do if you know where to look. The environment is lush and beautiful, and there is an activity for everyone. Here are our recommendations for the top five things to do in Toyama.

1.) Kurobe Gorge Railway

For those who prefer relaxing and just taking in the sights of a place instead of an activity, riding a sightseeing train is optimal. The Kurobe Gorge Railway is a well-known and popular attraction in Toyama. A slow-moving train travels along the Hida Mountains, so that riders can enjoy the passing views. The ride is about an hour and a half long, and offers some spectacular and breathtaking views of the gorge. There are stops for riders to stop and stretch out their legs and do some light exploring. Be forewarned though, the train only operates seasonally, usually through mid April until November, and autumn is usually an extremely popular time, due to the splendid views of the fall foliage. 

2.) Uozu Aquarium/Mirage Land

For a day of family fun in Toyama, check out Uozu aquarium and the nearby Mirage Land. Uozu aquarium is a great place to learn more about sea life and observe. Mirage Land is a small little amusement park with small rides. One of the main attractions is a ferris wheel ride that provides a nice view of the ocean and of Uozu. If you're looking for a casual day filled with fun, these are two places to check out in Toyama.

3.) Hike up Mount Tate (Tateyama)

Considered one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains", tateyama is a very popular place to visit. For some, the trek up the mountain is a spiritual journey, and for others the trek to the top is something that fills them with a sense of accomplishment. For those who enjoy doing something active and challenging, the trek up tateyama is something to try. Please be sure to wear appropriate shoes and attire, as there are steep inclines. The landscape and views that you're treated to on your hike are something that can never be forgotten. Depending on weather or the season conditions, the trail may be closed so please be aware of this and double check before your travels.

4.) Enjoy a sand bath

Japan has many places where you can enjoy a bath due to the numerous amount of hot springs widely available, but an interesting one to try in Toyama are the sand baths. Sand baths can be found around all around Japan, but are much rarer than the normal water bath. A visit to Toyama means the opportunity to try a warm and comfortable sand bath at the Fukumitsu Hanayama Onsen. 

5.) Yotaka Festival

Now this last one is seasonal, so it isn't available year round. If Tonami Yotaka festival is something you might be interested in, it is necessary to plan your visits. The Yotaka Festival is a festival that is usually held on the second weekend of June, and is a popular event in Toyama. Teams of people with floats of beautiful Yotaka lanterns parade along until the floats meet and collide together as a finale. The goal is to have one standing float as the victor. This festival is something that takes a bit to prepare for, and only a few of the lanterns are selected for the parade. The festival brings to light (no pun intended) a dimension of Japanese culture, with spectacular lights and noise making it an exciting event to attend in Toyama. 
There is also the Fukuno Yotaka Festival, held in May, which is also a parade of Yotaka lanterns that is held in anticipation of the Tonami Yotaka Festival, while people sing the Yotaka song.

Toyama is filled with beautiful and interesting places to see, but there is also plenty to do as well. If your travels to Japan take you to Toyama, be sure to check some of these places out!