25° of midsummer, a refreshing hike in Kamikochi, Matsumoto

Kamikochi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture Photo taken on 2024/7/4, due to continuous heavy rain, the hiking trails from Taisho Pond to Tashiro Bridge and the small Nashi Plain to Myojin Pond on the right side of Kappa Bridge have been closed these days. It's unclear when they will reopen, but it's expected to be unlikely this week. It's recommended to check the Kamikochi official website before going. Introduction: Kamikochi is located in the Japanese Alps and is a very famous hiking sanctuary. It's a summer resort with an average temperature of 20 degrees in July, open only from mid-April to mid-November. 🚉Transportation: ① Matsumoto Station (8:02, Platform 7) — Shinshimashima Station (Kamikochi Line) 30min ② Shinshimashima Station (8:32) — Taisho Pond Station (9:36) Hiking Route: Starting from 'Taisho Pond': Taisho Pond - Tashiro Pond - Boundary Monument - Kappa Bridge (right turn) - Myojin Pond - across Myojin Bridge - Kappa Bridge (left turn) - Kamikochi Bus Terminal for return. Total normal hiking time is about 3 hours, with an additional 2 hours for photography, sightseeing, and rest, totaling about 5 hours. Landmarks: ① Kappa Bridge: The iconic spot of Kamikochi ② Taisho Pond: Formed by the eruption of Yake-dake in 1915; ③ Tashiro Pond: This wetland blends with the primeval forest, creating a dreamy atmosphere. ④ Myojin Pond: Known as 'Mirror Pond', where you can enjoy a variety of plants and wild birds. Tips: 1. The toilet at the bus terminal costs 100 yen per use, so have change ready 2. Luggage storage: Kamikochi Bus Terminal 1st floor. Small 400 yen/day, large 500 yen/day (extra-large 600 yen/day) 6:00-17:00 3. The bus from Kamikochi to Shirahone Onsen is by reservation only (book on japanbus official website) Lunch recommendation: The restaurant/cafe at the Birch Mansion Hotel (located next to Kappa Bridge) Cafe Nashi, 9:00-15:00, where you can enjoy a close view of Kappa Bridge and Azusa River