Toyama：June 13, 2025

 

I visited Toyama City in the Hokuriku region. After developing as a castle town in the Edo period, it has developed as the prefectural capital of Toyama Prefecture since the Meiji period.

 

I got off the Shinkansen at JR Toyama Station and moved to the transfer space in the ground floor. I found a tram platform inside the station building. From there, trams are connected to six directions. The transfers are very convenient. (See the top photo)

Japan now faces a decrease of population and many discussions are made on the issue. In such circumstances, Toyama City is drawing attention as an example of a “compact city”. To achieve the aim, the city has tried to develop public transportation such as trams, and has been encouraging people to live in the areas where public transportation is easily accessible.

Many LRT (light rail transit) vehicles are used for trams. They have features such as a low floor, quietness, and large windows. I actually rode it and it was comfortable. (See also the 2nd photo)

Toyama City is surrounded by mountains on three sides, the east, south, and west, and faces Toyama Bay to the north. Looking from the observation deck at the city hall, I could see mountains such as the Northern Alps behind the city. Unfortunately, today was cloudy and the views of the mountains were not so clear. (See also the 3rd photo)

The site of Toyama Castle is now a castle park, and a museum designed after the castle has been built. (Se also the 4th photo)

 

The New York Times selected Toyama as one of the 52 cities to visit in 2025. The first image shown in the introductory article was of the Glass Art Museum. The building, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, is used as a museum, library, and more.

 

The Jinzu River flows through Toyama City. The river once flowed through the center of the city and caused flood damages. Development work was carried out during the Meiji period, and it now flows in an area a little away from the center. 

Part of the former river is now a canal, and there is a park in the surrounding area that uses the canal.