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Hotel Tateyama, a landmark high in Japan's Northern Alps, has closed after 54 years of operation, marking the end of a significant era. The hotel, situated at Murodo, the highest point on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route at an altitude of 2,450 meters, has welcomed nearly 1.7 million guests during its long run. Murodo also houses one of the Alpine Route's most famous attractions, the Yuki no Otani snow corridor.

The hotel, opened in 1972, was distinguished by its iconic red roof and became a familiar sight for visitors on the region's best-known mountain route. Designed to withstand harsh weather, the six-story building had 81 guest rooms and could accommodate up to 260 people. The hotel, integrated with Murodo Terminal, a transport hub for highland buses and services, retained much of its earlier ambiance, with original decorations still in use until its closure.

Despite its popularity, the building faced closure due to its aging structure, and was sold in March 2024 to Hoshino Resorts. The final night for overnight guests was August 30, when Kiyoe Ushiba and her husband checked in. Ushiba expressed sadness at the closure, stating it was a place where she could unwind. Yoshiyasu Mitani, the hotel's accommodation manager, appreciated the loyalty of the guests over the years. The future use of the former hotel section remains undecided by Hoshino Resorts.