Toyama Prefecture is located in the Chubu region and the Hokuriku area of Japan. It faces the Sea of Japan (Toyama Bay) to the north and is surrounded on three sides by steep mountains, making it a region rich in natural beauty. It roughly corresponds to the old Etchu Province and borders Niigata Prefecture to the east, Gifu Prefecture to the south, and Ishikawa Prefecture to the west. The prefecture is known for its unique climate, history, and rich natural environment typical of the Sea of Japan side.
Geography and Terrain
To the north of Toyama Prefecture lies Toyama Bay, known for its beautiful coastline and a member of the "Most Beautiful Bays in the World Club." In contrast, the east, south, and west are surrounded by rugged mountains. Especially in the south, the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains) stretch across the area, with famous peaks such as Mt. Tsurugi and Mt. Tateyama towering above. Glaciers, the only ones still existing in Japan, have been confirmed around the Tateyama mountain range.
The central part of the prefecture features the Toyama Plain, formed by multiple rivers, with well-developed alluvial fans at the mountain foothills. The large difference in elevation from the Sea of Japan to the inland areas creates diverse natural landscapes.
The western region, around Himi City, sits at the base of the Noto Peninsula, where rich fishing grounds extend along the coast. Notably, the spectacle of firefly squid swarming and the spring mirages are natural phenomena unique to Toyama Bay.
Climate Characteristics
Toyama Prefecture has a typical Sea of Japan climate and is designated as a heavy snowfall area throughout its entire region. Winters bring abundant snowfall, particularly around the Tateyama mountain range, which is one of the world’s heaviest snowfall zones with extremely high snow accumulation. However, in recent years, warmer winters have led to a decline in snowfall amounts and snowy days.
In summer, the Foehn phenomenon causes hot and humid conditions, with some days experiencing intense heat. The southern mountainous regions have a subarctic humid climate, making winters extremely cold and harsh.
History and Culture
Historically, Toyama Prefecture was under the control of the Kaga Domain and later had its own Toyama Domain during the Edo period. Although it was temporarily annexed to Ishikawa Prefecture during the Meiji period, it eventually became independent through the separation movement.
The "Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Gassho-style Villages", a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are famous for preserving traditional mountain village culture and stunning scenery. Additionally, the area retains a strong history of mountain worship, such as the Tateyama faith.
Seafood from Toyama Bay is known as "Kitokito" (meaning fresh), offering seasonal delicacies like firefly squid and winter yellowtail. The prefecture also boasts many water sources selected among Japan's "100 Famous Waters," supporting high-quality rice cultivation and sake brewing.
Industry and Economy
Toyama Prefecture has developed as part of the Hokuriku industrial zone, with thriving metal processing and chemical industries. It is also the birthplace of major manufacturers like YKK and Sankyo Tateyama. Furthermore, influential companies such as Hokuriku Bank and Hokuriku Electric Power Company have their headquarters here.
Fushiki-Toyama Port serves as an important hub for trade around the Sea of Japan. Coastal cities like Uozu and Himi along Toyama Bay also have vibrant fishing industries.
Summary
Toyama Prefecture is blessed with the beautiful Toyama Bay and the majestic Northern Alps. It is a region where history, culture, and industry have developed in balance. Known for its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, abundant water resources, and the finest seafood in the Hokuriku region, Toyama is a unique area where traditional culture and modern industry coexist harmoniously.