Hokuriku Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa to stroll through the beautifully preserved Kenrokuen Garden and the historic Higashi Chaya District.

• Take the newly included Toyama Chihou Railway Tram to explore Toyama's vibrant city center and visit the stunning Toyama Glass Art Museum.

• Use your pass to reach Kurobe Unazukionsen and soak in the rejuvenating alkaline hot springs with views of the majestic Northern Alps.

• Hop on the Echizen Railway to discover the rugged coastal beauty and dinosaur heritage of Fukui Prefecture.

Hidden Gems

• Venture off the main Shinkansen route using the Manyo Line to discover Takaoka's historic copperware workshops and the serene Zuiryuji Temple.

• Utilize the Hapi-Line Fukui access to visit the tranquil Eiheiji Temple, the head temple of the Soto Zen sect, nestled deep in a cedar forest.

• Explore the lesser-known coastal town of Himi via local connections to enjoy incredibly fresh, locally caught seafood and breathtaking views of the Noto Peninsula.

What Makes it Special

• The recent expansion includes the new Tsuruga to Kurobe Unazukionsen route and access to non-JR lines like the Toyama Chihou Railway Tram and Echizen Railway, offering unprecedented regional coverage.

• It provides exceptional value for families and solo travellers alike by covering both high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains and charming local tramways under one pass.

• Travellers can seamlessly transition from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene, snow-capped mountains and traditional cultural hubs of the Hokuriku coast.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and Autumn offer the most comfortable weather and stunning seasonal colors, making them ideal for sightseeing across the Hokuriku region. Winter transforms Kanazawa and the Japanese Alps into a magical snowscape, though travellers should be prepared for heavy snowfall and check for potential local transit delays. Early mornings are the best time to catch the Shinkansen to avoid the midday commuter rush and secure unreserved window seats.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic looped tracks of the Hokuriku Shinkansen at the Kanazawa station's massive Motenashi Dome, best photographed during the blue hour just after sunset.

• When riding the Toyama Chihou Railway Tram, use a fast shutter speed to capture the charming retro carriages against the modern city backdrop without motion blur.

• Always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography or blocking the aisles when taking pictures inside the train cabins.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Train etiquette in Japan is strictly observed, so please keep your voice down, set your phone to silent mode, and avoid eating strongly scented foods while on board. When using the local trams and non-JR lines included in your pass, it is customary to board from the rear doors and exit through the front doors near the driver. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, and excellent service is considered standard, so a simple bow and a polite thank you is the best way to show appreciation.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri in early June celebrates the arrival of Lord Maeda Toshiie with spectacular samurai parades and traditional tea ceremonies.

• The Toyama Owara Kaze no Bon in early September features hauntingly beautiful folk dances and music that echo through the historic streets of Yatsuo.

• Winter illuminations at Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle typically run from November to February, offering breathtaking night-time photography opportunities.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding, especially at older rural stations where the platform height may vary.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your Hokuriku Pass and passport, securely stored in the overhead racks or on your lap, as unattended items may be handed over to the police.

• During the winter months, be cautious of slippery, snow-covered platforms and station entrances, and wear appropriate non-slip footwear.