The Hokuriku Shinkansen is the bullet train that travels to the Hokuriku region or Northwest part of Japan and links Tokyo to cities such as Nagano, Toyama, and Kanazawa. It provides easy access to Japan's popular skiing regions with stops at destinations such as Joetsu-Myoko and Iiyama. Moreover, it includes stops at the Karuizawa station in Nagano, renowned for its array of charming second homes.
Since 2015, Kanazawa station in Ishikawa Prefecture marked the terminus of this line. However, as of March 16th, 2024, a newly inaugurated section has linked Kanazawa to Tsuruga in Fukui Prefecture, effectively extending the line by an additional 125 kilometers.
How Many Stations Were Added?
6 new stations were added as below:
Komatsu Station (Ishikawa Prefecture)
Kaga Onsen Station (Ishikawa Prefecture)
Awara Onsen (Fukui Prefecture)
Fukui (Fukui Prefecture)
Echizen-Takefuku (Fukui Prefecture)
Tsuruga (Fukui Prefecture)
What Is There to Do in These Areas?
A lot! Besides providing access to numerous renowned hot springs in the area, the new route opens up opportunities for visiting museums and enjoying sightseeing attractions. Here are a few examples.
Komatsu Station (Komatsu City)
Natadera Temple: A Buddhist Temple first built in the year 717. More information can be found here.
The Motocar Mueseum of Japan: With over 500 vehicles on display, this is a gem for any car enthusiast! For more details here.
Yunokuni-no-Mori: If you enjoy Japanese culture, Yunokuni-no-mori is a must for you. It is a Japanese theme park village dedicated to Japanese arts and crafts. Information here.
Kaga Onsen Station
Katayamazu Onsen
Awazu Onsen
Yamanaka Onsen
Yamashiro Onsen
Awara Onsen Station
Awara Onsen: Awara Onsen is a famous hot spring town in Japan which has been around for over 130 years.
Yukemuri Yokocho: Yukemori Yokocho which stands for "Steam Alley," is an alley of food stalls. Nice location for dinner after a relaxing day at the onsen!
Fukui Station (Fukui City)
Yōkōkan Garden: The Yokokan Garden is a traditional Japanese garden located in Fukui City.
Daihonzan Eiheiji Temple: Eiheiji, known as the "Temple of Eternal Peace" is a Zen Monastary and Village close to the city. More information can be found here.
Echizen-Takefu Station
Echizen Washi Village: Echizen Washi is high-quality traditional Japanese paper made in the Echizen region. Visit the village to learn more about the traditional manufacturing processes and what makes the paper special.
Tsuruga Station (Tsuruga City)
Kehi no Matsubara (Pine Grove Park): Is renowned for its striking visual contrast between white sands and lush green pine trees. It holds the distinction of being one of Japan's top three most beautiful pine parks.
Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse: These are two historic brick buildings, one has been transformed into a museum showcasing the history of Tsuruga, while the other hosts cafes and restaurants.
Kehi Shrine: This Shinto Shrine, located on the Northeast part of the city is said to have been around since A.D. 702.
Is This the End of the Line for the Hokuriku Shinkansen?
The Hokuriku Shinkansen's journey is far from over as there are plans for one more final section to link Tsuruga to Shin-Osaka. However, completion is still some time away. In the meantime, tourists can relish the attractions along the new route.