On the basis of a curvilinear coordinate system and incorporation of a number of flow resistance laws, a one-dimensional model has been developed to simulate debris flows in mountain torrent channels. The model simulations are compared to debris flow events in the Kamikamihori Valley in Japan. The results suggest that the models with a Newtonian turbulent and a Voellmy fluid flow resistance, as well as a model with a new empirical flow resistance approach, are better at reproducing the observed velocities and flow-heights than the models with a Bingham, Newtonian laminar or dilatant grain-shearing flow resistance. The material constant for the dynamic part in the flow resistance law, the channel width and the total volume were found to be the most sensitive parameters for the flow simulation.