Toyama
Toyama, Japan is a captivating port city that stands as a testament to the country's deep connection to nature and a rich cultural heritage. Located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, it serves as a spectacular gateway to the majestic Northern Japan Alps and the famous Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. For a cruiser, Toyama offers a perfect blend of a bustling urban center and a launching point for incredible adventures to see some of Japan's most breathtaking scenery.
⛵ Port Introduction
The main cruise port for Toyama is the Fushiki-Toyama Port, which is a large, industrial port with a cruise terminal. Your ship will dock directly at a pier, so no tendering is required. Due to its status as a commercial port, you are not permitted to walk off the ship and into the town. A complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided by the port, which will take you from the gangway to a designated area, typically the nearby Takaoka Station or Toyama Station, which are central hubs for further exploration.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Fushiki-Toyama Port has a dedicated cruise passenger wharf, which is a clean and safe open-air setup. While there is no large, permanent terminal building at the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops, kiosks, and vendors right on the waterfront.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
While there is no main terminal, the area right by the pier is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find a small welcome area with local volunteers. Public restrooms are available, and a small food and souvenir market is often set up for cruise ship arrivals. The port offers free Wi-Fi, which is a big plus. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the pier, and you are immediately surrounded by the city's charming downtown.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Japanese. While you will find that English is spoken in the main tourist areas and at the cruise terminal, it is not as universally spoken as in some other countries. It is highly recommended to have a few basic Japanese phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Konnichiwa (kon-ni-chi-wa) - Hello
Arigatou (a-ri-ga-to) - Thank you
Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) - Excuse me
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka) - Do you speak English?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While major credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, major restaurants, and department stores, it is wise to carry some cash for smaller shops, local markets, and public transportation. ATMs that accept international cards can be found in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and post offices.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the city center of Toyama, you have a few options:
Shuttle Bus: The port provides a complimentary shuttle bus that takes you to a central location like Toyama Station or the nearby Takaoka Station.
Train: The train is the best and most affordable way to get to other parts of the city. The Toyama Station is a major transit hub.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The ride to the city center will be expensive, and it is a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before you get in.
Public Tram: Toyama has an excellent public tram system that is a very affordable way to get around the city. The trams are very clean and efficient.
♿ Accessibility
Toyama has an accessibility rating of 5 out of 10. The cruise terminal is modern and fully accessible, with ramps and elevators. The city has made a great effort to make its public transportation system and main attractions accessible. However, the most famous attractions, like the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, are in rugged, mountainous terrain that would be very difficult to navigate for people with limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town from the cruise port is to take the complimentary shuttle bus provided by the port. It's a short and easy ride that will take you directly to a central location, where you can then explore on foot or get public transportation to other parts of the city.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Toyama, especially at major tourist attractions, train stations, and shopping centers. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Matsumoto Kiyoshi: There are many Matsumoto Kiyoshi pharmacies throughout the city, and they are a great place to get everything from over-the-counter medications to cosmetics.
Welcia Drugstore: This is another major drugstore chain that you can find in the city.
✨ Authentic Experience
Dine on Local Toyama Bay Sushi: Toyama Bay is famous for its fresh, locally sourced seafood. For a truly authentic culinary experience, seek out a local sushi restaurant and try a set of Toyama Bay Sushi. The seafood is incredibly fresh and is a true taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Explore the Historic Villages of Gokayama: For a taste of the region's rich history, take a tour to the Historic Villages of Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk through the villages of traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their unique steep, thatched roofs.
Visit the Toyama Glass Art Museum: Toyama is famous for its glass art. The Toyama Glass Art Museum is a modern and well-curated museum that is a work of art in itself. It is a great place to spend a few hours and see a variety of glass art pieces, from traditional Japanese glassware to modern sculptures.
