Imizu

Imizu (射水) is a city in northwestern Toyama Prefecture, located on Toyama Bay. The city encompasses a mix of coastal areas, agricultural plains, and hills. Imizu is known for its scenic coastline, wetlands, and the famous Kaiomaru disaster memorial, honouring a 1909 shipwreck that killed dozens of local schoolchildren. The area also has historical connections to the Kaga domain and features several well-preserved temples and shrines. The climate is typical of the Hokuriku coast—mild summers and snowy winters.

By Plane

Toyama Airport (TOY) is about 35 minutes by car.

By Train

Imizu Station is on the JR Hokuriku Main Line (Ainokaze Toyama Railway). From Toyama, the journey is about 20 minutes. The Hokuriku Shinkansen serves nearby Takaoka and Toyama stations, from which local trains connect to Imizu.

By Car / Road

Imizu is easily accessible from the Hokuriku Expressway via the Imizu IC and Takaoka IC. From Toyama, drive via Route 8 (about 20 minutes). Parking is available at major attractions.

Local bus services connect the main districts, but a rental car is recommended for exploring the coast and rural areas. Taxis are available at the station.

The Kaiomaru Memorial Hall tells the story of the 1909 shipwreck that claimed 97 lives. Imizu Wetland is a bird-watching haven, attracting migratory waterfowl. Several temples in the old town area reflect the city's historical role. The Shogawa River estuary offers scenic views.

Bird watching at the Imizu Wetland reserve. Cycling along the Toyama Bay coastline. Fishing from the shore or charter boats. The Imizu Summer Festival features traditional dancing and events.

Imizu's coastal location provides excellent seafood, with buri (yellowtail) and shiroebi (white shrimp) being the specialities. Local farms produce fresh vegetables.

Toyama sake and local shochu are available at restaurants and izakaya. Tap water is safe.

• Budget: Business hotels near the station from ¥5,000–7,000. - Mid-range: Mid-range hotels from ¥7,000–10,000. - Upscale: Ryokan along the coast from ¥12,000–18,000.

Local agricultural products including rice and vegetables. Toyama Bay seafood products, especially shiroebi (white shrimp) snacks.

• Toyama City (20 min by train) — castle, glass art museum, and the Kitokito Ichiba market. - Takaoka (15 min by car) — Great Buddha, canals, and the Takaoka Daibutsu. - Kurobe (35 min by train) — gateway to the Kurobe Gorge Railway. - Nanto (30 min by car) — UNESCO World Heritage gassho-zukuri villages.