Things to do in Toyama (Toyama City)
- Keiko Takakura
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Toyama City is often visited as a gateway to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route or as a destination for conferences and business travel. Yet the city itself offers far more than convenience. With its calm atmosphere, exceptional seafood, canal-side scenery, and access to authentic local culture, Toyama City is an ideal destination for travelers seeking meaningful experiences in a limited amount of time. Whether you have a few free hours or an extra day to explore, the city can be enjoyed through independent visits or more personalized private Toyama tours led by a licensed guide. This guide introduces some of the best things to do in Toyama City for a memorable, comfortable, and distinctly local stay in Japan.
Glass Art- Toyama City identifies itself as Mecca of Glass Art. From its landmark, Glass Art Museum, to a cozy local glass factory Toyama Glass Studio, it presents you places to enjoy the art in five senses. In Everyday Toyama Walking Tour, I will introduce you the finest modern glass art in the world.
Masu Zushi- Traditional Pressed Trout Sushi Toyama is best-known. There are around 20 specialized stores in down town Toyama alone, and don't forget to check out Masu Zushi vending machines available in town. If you are interested, I'm happy to stop by at one of my favorite Masu Zushi stores to grab and taste some in Everyday Toyama Walking Tour.
Sake- You can't simply miss local sake if you are in Toyama. Crafted with mineral-rich pure water from Mt. Tateyama, it gives smooth and refined texture.
In our Canal to Port Town Walking Tour, we will visit Drinking bar Saseki that is located in a quiet local settings, which I highly recommend.
Sushi- Toyama Prefecture is renowned as Japan's top destination for fresh, delicious sushi, thanks to its rich and unique natural ingredients including Yellow Tail, Horse Mackerel, Glass Shrimp, and Red Snow Crab. There are plenty of Sushi restaurants in Toyama offering high-quality sushi with reasonable prices.
Toyama City Hall Observation Tower- “One of the most underrated city views in Japan.”
From the middle of the city, you can see the dramatic peaks of the Tateyama Mountain Range rising above Toyama. And the best part?
You don't need to hike. You don't need a car.
Just take the elevator to the observation deck at Toyama City Hall Observation Tower.
If you want to experience Toyama beyond the guidebooks, join our Everyday Toyama Walking Tour.
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