Bijodaira Outer Forest Course

The Bijodaira Outer Forest Course loops through old-growth beech forest on the roughly 977 m plateau at Bijodaira, the first stop on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route above Tateyama, Toyama. The trailhead is reached by the Tateyama Cable Car from Tateyama Station, a seven-minute ride, and the loop begins and ends directly at Bijodaira Station with no permit required. The approximately 3.5 km circuit follows a well-marked dirt and boardwalk path over gentle, rolling terrain with no significant climbing, though tree roots and occasional mud can make footing uneven after rain. Shade from the beech and Japanese cedar canopy covers most of the route, a contrast to the exposed alpine terrain higher up the mountain. Landmarks along the way include interpretive signboards on the plateau's ecology, a suspended walkway section over a shallow ravine, and clearings that open toward the Tateyama range on clear days; walkers short on time can turn back at the ravine crossing for a shorter loop. There are no water sources or shelters along the trail itself, but the Bijodaira Station building at the start and end has restrooms and a small rest area. The course is popular for birdwatching in late spring, when Japanese bush warblers and copper pheasants are frequently heard in the understory.