2024 Kamikochi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Kamikochi: From Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge

I recently had the most amazing experience exploring Kamikochi, and I thought I'd share my journey with you all. I started my adventure at Taisho Pond Station, where the serene Taisho Pond itself greeted me with its mirror-like surface reflecting the majestic Hotaka Mountain Range. The early morning mist added a magical touch to the scenery, making it a photographer's paradise. From Taisho Pond Station, I embarked on a picturesque walk towards Kappa Bridge. The trail was well-marked and surrounded by lush greenery, with the sound of the Azusa River accompanying me throughout the hike. The air was crisp and refreshing, and the occasional sighting of wildlife like Japanese macaques and mountain birds added to the charm of the journey. As I approached Kappa Bridge, I was greeted by breathtaking views of the Azusa River flowing beneath the iconic wooden bridge, framed by towering peaks and dense forests. It was a perfect spot to pause, take in the natural beauty, and snap some photos to capture the essence of Kamikochi. For those planning a trip to Kamikochi, starting from Taisho Pond Station and walking to Kappa Bridge is a must-do. The approximately 3-kilometer hike (about 1.8 miles) is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, offering numerous opportunities to connect with nature and immerse oneself in the tranquility of the Japanese Alps. If you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Kamikochi won't disappoint. Don't forget to pack some snacks, plenty of water, and your camera—you'll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable journey! Happy travels, and enjoy exploring Kamikochi as much as I did! #japan #kamikochi #japanalps #na

The Magical Kamikochi

Really beautiful mountain range also nicknamed "Japanese Alps", there are buses going from Tokyo as well as Matsumoto and other cities I guess. Your visit can be extended to multiple days if you book a stay at a local Ryokan of which there are many in the area. Book your stay in advance though, or plan the trip for one day with the easier hike options. We stayed for ~5 hours and walked from taishou pond through the bus terminal area and up to myoujin pond. The route on the left side of the river (facing upstream from the bus terminal) will take you along the river streams close to the water, while the right side is more of a nice forest walk. Be aware that the weather can be moody here, our forecast said rain, but it was actually sunny until the way back, so bring a raincoat. #passionpassport #gooutside #mountainview #nationalpark

Kamikochi is located on a great RuralJapan route between Matsumoto and Takayama City. If you are looking to get away from the big city and explore the road less traveled, Kamikochi and its surrounding areas have much to offer. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

Kamikochi during the autumn leaves change Nov 2024.

Get discounts without relying on luck. Late autumn in Kamikochi in November 2024 is a special time before the season closes. Visit the breathtakingly beautiful nature. The autumn leaves combined with the first snow create a serene landscape. Taisho Lake reflects the majestic Hotaka Mountain. Enjoy a walk on the Kappa Bridge amidst the pure air that you can't find anywhere else. It's very romantic and beautiful. Even if you have to deal with cloudy days, it's still incredibly impressive.

Kamikochi Before Closing

I had the opportunity to visit Kamikochi for the first time before it closed for the winter season. I arrived in the morning of 10/11/24 around 7:30 AM. The temperature was about 5 degrees Celsius, colder than I expected. The water in the ponds was frozen, and ice crystals formed on the grass. The weather was great, and the scenery was beautiful. Although it was close to winter, there were still autumn leaves to see. It was worth waking up early and traveling for hours. If you have the chance, you should try staying at a hotel in Kamikochi at least once.

All beans

#travelvlog It's wonderful to be able to spend time to yourself in a small space.Unfortunately, the weather was unfortunate, but the combination of the sound of the rain, the cries of frogs, and the quiet atmosphere made it the perfect time to be alone.There are also Bluetooth speakers and cooking utensils, so it's not an inconvenience and I would love to stay there again.overall it ok

Kamikochi 2024

Visited Kamikochi on October 27, 2024, by booking a direct bus ticket from Matsumoto at 5:30 AM, arriving at Kamikochi around 7:05 AM. The weather was great, beautiful, and impressive. Initially, the weather forecast predicted rain because it had been raining the days before, so I was prepared for that. However, on the actual day, it didn't rain, the sky was clear, and the sun was shining. It was really beautiful. Around 10:00 AM, it started to get crowded. An important note is that you have to take your trash with you as it's hard to find a place to dispose of it, and there is a 100 yen fee to use the restroom.

Visiting Kamikochi: A Scenic Summer Retreat in Nagano!

How to Get There: From Matsumoto City, it takes about an hour and a half by rental car to reach Sawando. From Sawando, private cars are restricted, so everyone uses buses or taxis. Since we had a large group, we opted for a round-trip taxi! 🚗 It takes about 20 minutes to arrive! Tourist Spots: Upon arrival, you can pass through the parking lot where tour buses and taxis are located and enjoy souvenir shops and information centers. Be aware that the restrooms are paid, so make sure to have cash on hand. ✅ Food & Restaurants: We didn't use any restaurants this time as we took out food from Matsumoto City, but there were several places where you could enjoy soba noodles, soft serve ice cream, and craft beer.

Japan Travel | Stunning Autumn Colors: Kamikochi, Nagano (with Transportation Guide).

|Stunning Autumn Colors: Kamikochi, Nagano (with Transportation Guide). Kamikochi will be closed on November 15, so I went on the 8th to see its stunning autumn colors before it closed. The main attractions in Kamikochi are Kappa Bridge, Taisho Pond, and Myojin Pond. My walking route for the day was Kamikochi Bus Terminal → Kappa Bridge → Taisho Pond → Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond → Kappa Bridge → Kamikochi Bus Terminal. At this time, the night buses from Shinjuku and the buses from Nagoya and Nagano are all suspended. Even the first direct bus from Matsumoto is full. So I chose to buy a train and bus combo ticket in [Matsumoto]. ✓ Take the train at 6:31 am to Shin-Shimashima Station, and transfer seamlessly to the bus to Kamikochi, [no reservation required]. ✓ Be sure to [reserve] the bus from Kamikochi to Shin-Shimashima for the return trip. Hiking route: ① Kappa Bridge → Taisho Pond, about 1h20min with photo stops, just in time to return to Kappa Bridge for lunch. ② Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond, there are two routes, left and right, the left bank is farther, we took the left bank route and returned on the right bank route, the whole trip took about 3h. You will encounter horses on the way, be careful not to feed them~ Kamikochi is beginner-friendly for hiking, mostly boardwalks and gravel roads, mostly flat, suitable for leisurely hiking. About supplies: mostly at Kappa Bridge, there are cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and it is the closest attraction to the bus stop. Kamikochi in autumn changes every day, with mainly yellow leaves, so don't expect too much from the maple leaves 🍁.

Kamikochi ต้องไปสักครั้งในชีวิต

[📍 Kamikochi, Japan - One Day Trip in Late October 🍂] Autumn is coming, and Kamikochi is breathtaking! 🍁 เราตัดสินใจจัดทริปแบบไปเช้าเย็นกลับ เพราะที่พักเต็มหมด แต่การได้เห็นบรรยากาศ Kamikochi ในช่วงปลายตุลาคมก็คุ้มค่าทุกการเดินทางจริง ๆ! ออกเดินทางด้วยบัสเช้า บรรยากาศระหว่างทางสวยงามมาก เห็นวิวภูเขาสูงและใบไม้เปลี่ยนสีตามแนวป่า ตื่นเต้นสุด ๆ 🚌✨ เมื่อถึง Kamikochi อากาศเย็นสดชื่นมาก ท้องฟ้าสีฟ้าใสตัดกับต้นไม้ที่ค่อย ๆ เปลี่ยนสีเป็นแดง ส้ม เหลือง เราเดินเลียบแม่น้ำ Azusa กับวิวภูเขา Hotaka ที่เห็นเป็นเงาสะท้อนบนผิวน้ำ ยิ่งทำให้วิวดูเหมือนภาพวาดธรรมชาติที่สวยงามเหนือคำบรรยาย 🏞️ ระหว่างเดินทางใน Kamikochi จุดที่เราชอบที่สุดคือ Kappabashi Bridge สะพานไม้ที่มีวิวรอบข้างสวยมาก ๆ ถ่ายรูปมุมไหนก็ได้ภาพที่มีทั้งภูเขาและแม่น้ำ เราเดินตามเส้นทางเดินป่าที่ไม่ชันเกินไป ท่ามกลางอากาศเย็น ๆ เดินไปหยุดพักไป เพลิดเพลินกับธรรมชาติรอบตัว 🌲 เสียดายนิดหน่อยที่ไม่ได้ค้างคืน แต่ทริปนี้ก็เติมเต็มพลังให้เต็มที่กับฤดูใบไม้ร่วง! ถ้ามีโอกาส อยากกลับมาอีกครั้งแน่นอน 😊 #Kamikochi #OneDayTrip #AutumnIsComing #JapanTravel

Kamikochi, a place of healing

Kamikochi is surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Japanese Alps, and you can enjoy the scenery of every season. The fresh greenery in spring and summer, and especially the autumn leaves in autumn, are spectacular.

Kamikochi - Hometown of Japanese God (神的故乡）

#fallcolors #100waysoftravel #couplestrip Kamikochi is the Japanese Alps that located in Nagano. It's car free area so you need to take bus from either Matsumoto or 高山. It is well known as Japanese God Hometown. The scenery is mesmerising. Hiking in this nature pathway while enjoying the fall colour in this beauty of mother nature is blessed. Beware that it's bear habitat as well and the visitors are advised to rang the bear bell. PS: Must try the apple pie from the store near the bridge called Troiq Qins. The apple pie is too yummy😋😋

Kamikochi: A Mountain Resort for Hiking Enthusiasts

Kamikochi is a natural treasure surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Japanese Alps. Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the four seasons, with breathtaking autumn foliage and fresh greenery in spring. The clear waters of the Azusa River and the famous Taisho Pond are popular spots for hiking and mountaineering, offering both relaxation and adventure. With restricted car access, it provides a peaceful environment for refreshment. This place, where history and nature blend seamlessly, guarantees relaxation for both body and mind.

I just wanted to find a place to hide, but I found paradise here.

Kamikochi is beautiful and picturesque.

This time, I flew to Nagoya, and several friends coincidentally recommended visiting Kamikochi. So, I arranged a sightseeing trip on the second day of my itinerary. To reach the attractions in Kamikochi, you need to take a designated bus. We strolled from Taisho Pond, enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful scenery filled with green and yellow trees. The view is truly breathtaking, and I highly recommend visiting. My friends and I took many beautiful photos.

Kamikochi's Stunning Scenery, Majestic Hotaka Mountain Range

Kamikochi in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is a renowned natural area known for the magnificent Hotaka Mountain Range. The high peaks of the Hotaka Mountain Range, clear rivers, and lush forests create a picturesque setting, making it a beautiful hiking destination year-round. In autumn, the mountains are covered in vibrant fall foliage, creating an especially enchanting view; while in summer, the cool climate attracts many hikers. **Recommended Reason:** Kamikochi is a paradise for hikers and photographers. Walking along the trails around Taisho Pond and Myojin Pond, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Hotaka Mountain Range. The trails here cater to hikers of all levels, from easy flat routes to slightly challenging mountain paths, making it a great place to connect with nature and relax. **Location Check-in:** Kamikochi – Hotaka Mountain Range, Nagano Prefecture

Kamikochi

Kamikochi is a beautiful valley located in Nagano Prefecture, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. Its location, halfway between Matsumoto and Takayama, makes Kamikochi a popular day-trip destination from both cities. If you look at the map, you will notice that Kamikochi is also equidistant from Nagoya and Tokyo, making the travel time roughly the same. However, since there are more direct buses to Kamikochi from Tokyo, traveling from Tokyo is slightly more convenient.

Kamikochi for the first time.

The day I went to the mountain, I wore a hat, which I slightly regret. But the weather was so nice, cool and refreshing. The water was clear. You have to see it with your own eyes at least once. But I will definitely go back again to see it without a hat. The 3.5 km walk was just the right amount of tiring. The weather was good, the atmosphere was great, everything was beautiful. It felt like a short walk. This time, I traveled from Takayama by bus. The journey was not difficult, but there were no reserved seats. It's first come, first served. I want everyone to come. 📍Address: Kamikochi

[Nagano] Enjoy the autumn leaves too 🍁 Introducing scenic spots that will captivate you with nature 🔍 *Access tips included

It is also popular as a summer resort with spectacular views in early summer✨This time, we will introduce Kamikochi, a tourist spot representing Nagano Prefecture, along with tips on how to get there! ▪️Kamikochi's autumn leaves and tips - 🍁About Kamikochi's autumn leavesKamikochi is also popular as a place where you can see the spectacular views of Kappa Bridge, a designated cultural property, and the Hotaka mountain range beyond it✨Generally, when you think of autumn leaves, you probably think of maple trees, but the autumn leaves in Kamikochi are golden larch trees🌲They line the rivers and around the ponds, creating a beautiful landscape✨The weather on the day of the photo was not good, so it is difficult to convey the impressive beauty in the images, but even if the weather is not good, the beautiful scenery spreads out before your eyes😍📝How to get to KamikochiYou cannot enter Kamikochi by car, so you can transfer to a bus at the parking lot🚌You will have to go to each bus stop to the bus terminal in Kamikochi, but we recommend that you visit "Taisho Pond" " and start your hike from there 🥾 The route goes from Taisho Pond to Tashiro Pond to Kappa Bridge, and it takes about 45 minutes 🚶🚶♀️ If you go further from Kappa Bridge, you will come to "Myojin Pond", where the reflection in the pond is also spectacular, but it takes an hour one way, so it is recommended for those who are confident in their physical strength 😄 If you are lucky, you might even come across a monkey? 🐒 On the way back, take a bus from the bus terminal which is a 5-minute walk from Kappa Bridge to the parking lot 🚌▪️Access Tips--------------------As mentioned earlier, private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi due to restrictions! Here are three of the most common ways to get to Kamikochi. 👇 ①Shuttle bus from designated parking lots If you are using your own car, park at "Sawando Parking Lot" from Nagano or "Akanda Parking Lot" from Gifu, then transfer to the shuttle bus to Kamikochi. Both run every 30 minutes. 🕰️🕰️Departing from parking lots: First bus 5:00, last bus 16:20 🕰️Departing from Kamikochi: Last bus 16:55 🅿️Parking fee is 600 yen 💰: 1300 yen one way, 2400 yen round trip ②Direct bus from Shinjuku and Shibuya If you live near Tokyo and have difficulty traveling by car, there are direct buses from Shinjuku Station and Shibuya Station! Advance reservations are required, so don't forget to make a reservation! ️💰: From 8,200 yen/person *Reservations may already be full③Local bus from Matsumoto StationYou can also get there by local bus from Matsumoto Station (although there are only a few stops).You don't need a reservation to get there, but you need a reservation to get back, so be careful⚠️💰: 2,570 yen one way---------------------------------------- That's it! How about it! Combine your hiking with the autumn leaves and experience the beauty of nature!! ~~~~~Information~~~~~📍#KamikochiAddress: Azumi Kamikochi, Matsumoto City, Nagano PrefectureAccess: As aboveCost: Parking, bus fare only *As above⚠Caution: Don't make a reservation for the return bus or miss it! No reservation is required for the shuttle bus to the parking lot. Be sure to plan your trip with plenty of time to spare. #Domestic travel journal #Domestic travel

Kamikochi: Your companion for your favorite idols

#0yentripautumn I went to Kamikochi on an overnight bus with my senior who is into idol activities This time, I, the sunny girl, was stronger than the rainy girl (lol) Iwana set meal! 1800 yen, very tasty The autumn leaves are plain but pretty Lots of walking and a day trip to a hot spring was the best!

#100WaysOfTravel

Kamikochi in Summer!

Kamikochi is probably one of the best places in Japan to visit in Summer. Temperature is much cooler due to the higher altitude, hiking tracks ranging from beginner/family-friendly level, to professional levels. Only downside is that there's no direct access from the major cities. We stayed at Takayama this time, took 2 buses (about 1.5 hours journey in total) to reach kamikochi. It was still a wonderful experience :) #hiking #japan #kamikochi

Kamikochi, a paradise on earth.

Kamikochi is a beautiful and famous natural area in the Japanese Alps, located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Traveling to Kamikochi can be done by using public transportation, as private cars are not allowed in the area. There are two main cities where people usually stay before visiting Kamikochi: Takayama and Matsumoto, both accessible by public bus. This time, I traveled from Takayama. After boarding the bus, you need to transfer at Hirayu Onsen before reaching Kamikochi. It is recommended to get off at the first stop and then walk slowly, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way until you reach Kappa Bridge. The total travel time is approximately 1-2 hours.

How to spend 6 days in Osaka

🗺️🗺️ [Itinerary] Day 1:osaka Day 2:Kamikochi Day 3:Takayama, Shirakawa-go Day 4:Nagoya Day 5:Osaka Day 6:Osaka 📍📍 [Must-Visit Attractions] Kamikochi 🥘🥘 [Must-Try Food] 🏠🏠 [Accommodation ] 1.HOTEL MYSTAYS Sakaisuji Honmachi 2.Residence hotel Takayama station 3.Sanco inn nagoya 📷📷 [Photo Spots] 📣📣 [Tips]

Autumn Hiking Destination — Kamikochi.

Located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, Kamikochi is one of Japan's most beautiful mountain scenic spots. You can enjoy hiking and mountaineering here. Scenic Spots: 1. Kappa Bridge 2. Taisho Pond 3. Myojin Pond The scenery is like a paradise on earth, and there are many cute little animals. If you love nature, you should definitely visit!

It's like a dream.....

#japan

Relax in the great outdoors

The other day, I went to Kamikochi. I was impressed by the vastness of nature that unfolded before my eyes. It was wonderful to see the Kappa Bridge and the mountains⛰️ in the background. If you have the chance, I definitely recommend you go⛰️⛰️

[Kamikochi] Autumn holidays: Where to go / Enjoy the vast nature of the Alps 🍃 6 recommended spots

Enjoy the nature-rich Kamikochi for a day trip or overnight stay 🍃 Introducing recommended walking spots and routes ✨👣 Recommended walking routes for day trips 11:30 Taishoike bus stop → Taishoike → Tashiro Marshland & Tashiroike → 12:30 Kamikochi Imperial Hotel (lunch) → 13:30 Kappa Bridge → 14:30 Gosenjaku Hotel Lounge (cafe time) → 15:30 Dakezawa Marshland The photo was taken in mid-September. 🍂 The autumn leaves change color from early October to early November #Kamikochi #Where to go during autumn holidays #Autumn outing #Holiday memories #Recommended autumn spots

Kamikochi

Easy to go, easy to travel, very beautiful nature There is a camping ground and a hotel, a house, there is a hiking trail from the starting point to the Kappa Bridge. The bridge is a beautiful viewpoint for taking pictures. There are many restaurants and hotels in the area. Surrounded by nature, mountains and rivers, the stream is crystal clear, the blue is very beautiful. And from the bridge, you can hike up the mountain to Mt. Karasawa, but it takes several hours. Anyone who wants to walk up must prepare their body. 😊

Kamikochi: Japan's Switzerland!

A highland located in the mountains of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture! Surrounded by the magnificent mountains of the Japanese Alps, hiking in the beautiful, untouched nature is absolutely amazing✨ It's truly a Switzerland without a passport! If you stay overnight or take the first bus in the morning, there are fewer people, making it even more enjoyable👌🏻 If possible, staying overnight is recommended☺️ In the morning, there are fewer people until the first bus arrives, and at night, if the weather is good, you can see a sky full of stars!!! There is also a campsite further in🏕️ There are restrictions on private cars to the site, so you will need to take a bus from the parking lot at the base🚌