Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Visit

Internet & Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available at Toyama Station, public libraries, and tourist areas.

Pocket Wi-Fi is also available for rent at airports or online.

Money Exchange & Payments

Currency exchange is not widely available at banks or hotels in Toyama.
However, currency exchange machines (such as SMART EXCHANGE) are available at Toyama Station and nearby areas. There is also a currency exchange machine available at Toyama Airport.

ATMs that accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) can be found at 7-Eleven convenience stores and post offices.

While cash is still commonly used in Toyama, many shops and restaurants do accept credit cards and IC cards. Please check with each store in advance.

SIM Cards

SIM cards are sold at Toyama Airport and major electronics stores.

*Japanese Phone Etiquette: Please put your phone on silent mode and avoid talking on the phone on public transportation where possible.

Transport

City Tram

For sightseeing within Toyama City, riding the tram is highly recommended. It offers convenient and compact routes that cover popular spots such as Toyama Castle and the Toyama Glass Art Museum, as well as a course heading to Iwase beach along Toyama Bay.
The price is 240 yen per person for adults (12+) and 120 yen per person for children (6-12). Children under 6 ride free! Among Toyama Chiho Railway services, you can pay the fare either in cash or with a transportation IC card; the tram lines accepts nationwide IC cards like Suica and ICOCA, and also Toyama’s Chihou Railway’s local transportation card Ecomyca. In fact, some hotels in the Toyama city can also provide free tram tickets! Please ask at the front desk for more information.

Rental Bicycle

There are 23 bicycle rental stations located throughout central Toyama City. You can rent and return bicycles anytime, 365 days a year, at any station.
The service is available via the dedicated app or at rental counters. The 2-Day Pass is recommended for travelers. The fee is 500 yen.
For a basic fee plus usage fee, you can use the service unlimited times within the 2 days. Each rental session includes the first 30 minutes free of charge. For more details, please check the usage fees.

Taxi

There are generally no hailing taxis (street pickups) in Toyama City.
However, taxis are often available at the taxi stand in front of Toyama Station.
Alternatively, please use taxi apps such as “GO”, or ask hotel front desk staff or restaurant employees to call a taxi for you.

Car Rental

Major car rental providers can be found around Toyama, including the Toyota Rent a Car store near Toyama Station and Toyama Airport, and Nippon Rent A Car at Toyama Station North Exit.

To rent a car in Japan, bring:
・An International Driving Permit or a Japanese Driver’s Licence.
・A passport.
・A credit card.

English-language GPS navigation is often available. A rental car is ideal for exploring areas such as Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and rural destinations outside the city limits.
*Remember: Drive on the left and seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Fines may be imposed for not wearing a seatbelt.

For more information about transportation in Toyama City, please see this page.

Emergencies

Emergency Information (for foreign travelers)

If you experience an emergency in Japan

These numbers are available on any phone and operators can often provide basic guidance in English.

Japan Visitor Hotline

Operated by JNTO, this 24/7 multilingual hotline offers tourism information and assistance during emergencies

For online info and alternative contact methods, visit the Japan Visitor Hotline (JNTO) official page

Lost & Found

If you lose an item, contact the Toyama Prefectural Police Lost & Found department or the relevant transportation company (e.g. train or bus operator).

Information on Emergency Evacuation Areas and Shelters in Toyama City

In the event of an earthquake or natural disaster, please remain calm and follow the instructions provided through emergency announcements or guidance from local authorities.

Medical Care

English-speaking Hospitals and Emergency Information

If you require medical attention during your stay, please see here for hospitals with English-speaking services.

We highly recommend that all travelers carry valid travel insurance to ensure access to medical services if needed.

Pharmacies in Japan are commonly marked with a green cross symbol, making them easy to identify. In addition, there are many drugstores available which offer OTC medication.

Food

When visiting an izakaya (Japanese-style pub), please be aware that a small appetizer called otoshi (or tsukidashi) is usually served automatically and added to your bill. This is not a scam — it is a customary cover charge in place of a service fee. Thank you for your understanding.

About Vegetarian and Halal Food Options in Toyama

Please note that vegetarian, vegan, and halal dining options are limited in Toyama compared to major cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
Many local dishes use fish-based broth (such as bonito or sardine stock), which may not be suitable for strict vegetarians or vegans.
Halal-certified restaurants are very rare, although some accommodations or restaurants may offer halal-friendly meals upon request. We recommend contacting your hotel or travel agency in advance for assistance.
When dining out, it’s helpful to show a written explanation of your dietary needs in Japanese. If needed, staff may be able to suggest suitable options or assist with customization.

Before You Visit: Travel Tips

Best Seasons to Visit Toyama City

  • ・The best time to see cherry blossoms is from early to mid-April.
  • ・Swimming season along the coast runs from early July to late August.
  • ・The Owara Kaze no Bon Festival, a special and traditional event, is held from September 1 to 3.
  • ・Autumn leaves are at their peak from early to mid-November.
  • ・For breathtaking views of the snow-covered Tateyama Mountain Range, visit between December and March.

*For details on seasonal events, please visit the link below;