Readme before you journey
English:
Embark on a captivating journey to Kamikochi, where the vibrant hues of autumn foliage paint a breathtaking spectacle.
Kamikochi: A Breathtaking Natural Paradise
Kamikochi, a renowned natural wonder, stands as one of Japan's most captivating destinations. Nestled amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, it offers unparalleled views that have earned it the moniker "Switzerland of Japan."
This must be one of the dream destinations for many people.
It is also one of our dream destinations.
Kamikochi: A Scenic Valley in the Japanese Alps
Kamikochi is a picturesque valley nestled in the western region of Nagano Prefecture. Situated amidst the towering peaks of the Northern Japan Alps, it forms an integral part of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park.
Kamikochi Tourist Season
Kamikochi is open during the spring and autumn seasons and closed during the winter. The opening period is from mid-April to mid-November each year.
** Open from April 17 to November 15, 2018. **
This location is open to visitors year-round, from April to November. Each month offers a unique and beautiful experience.
To witness the majestic Japan Alps blanketed in snow, the ideal time to visit is between mid-April and May.
For lush greenery and vibrant nature, the summer months of June to September offer a breathtaking experience.
To witness the mesmerizing spectacle of autumn foliage, plan your trip for mid-to-late October.
And if you're seeking the ultimate adventure, embrace all seasons and witness the ever-changing beauty of the Japan Alps.
This review is based on a visit on October 25, 2018.
Traveling to Kamikochi
Traveling to Kamikochi: A Guide to Diverse Routes
Reaching Kamikochi is a straightforward endeavor, with a variety of routes available to suit your preferences.
Public Transportation
1. From Tokyo (approximately 7 hours)
There is a direct night bus from Tokyo to Kamikochi.
The bus departs from Tokyo late at night and arrives in Kamikochi early in the morning.
This makes it possible to take a one-day trip to Kamikochi. For more information, please visit the following website:
https://www.alpico.co.jp/en/timetable/kamikochi/r-tokyo-kamukochi/
2. From Matsumoto (2.5-hour journey)
Direct buses operate between Matsumoto and Kamikochi twice daily. For more information, please visit:
https://www.alpico.co.jp/en/timetable/kamikochi/r-matsumoto-kamikochi/
3. From Takayama (1.30 hours)
There is no direct bus from Takayama to Kamikochi. You will need to take a bus from Takayama to Hirayu Onsen, and then another bus from Hirayu Onsen to Kamikochi.
This time we traveled from Takayama. I will review the trip in detail below.
Traveling by Private Vehicle
If you wish to drive, you may do so, but you will not be able to drive directly to Kamikochi.
Private vehicles can be driven to the Sawando Parking Area, which is the final point where vehicles are permitted.
From there, you must take a bus to Kamikochi.
Let's get lost in the forest, listen to the sound of the flowing river, and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves together!
Our journey this morning begins at the Takayama Nohi Bus Center.
Traveling from Takayama to Kamikochi
Travel by Nohi Bus:
- Total travel time: approximately 1.30 hours
- Requires two bus transfers:
- Takayama to Hiruya Onsen: 1 hour
- Hiruya Onsen to Kamikochi: 20 minutes
This bus route is a non-reserved route, meaning all seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are required.
Total travel cost: 5,040¥ (Combination Ticket)
First, we need to purchase tickets.
The Combination Ticket can be purchased on the day of your visit.
You can buy tickets at the counter or from the vending machine.
(The counter at Takayama Nohi Bus Center opens at 06:00).
The ticket you received consists of 4 sections, each corresponding to a different bus.
- Takayama > Hirayu Onsen
- Hirayu Onsen > Kamikochi
- Kamikochi > Hirayu Onsen
- Hirayu Onsen > Takayama
Before boarding the bus, the staff will check your ticket but will not collect it yet.
When you are about to get off the bus, the ticket will be torn and handed to the staff.
Most importantly, keep your ticket safe and don't lose it. Otherwise, you will have to buy a new ticket.
After purchasing the tickets, we waited for the bus.
The bus to Hirayu Onsen departs from Track 5.
The first bus from Takayama to Hirayu Onsen departs at 7:00 AM and arrives at Hirayu Onsen at 7:58 AM.
(You can see more about the bus route at https://www.nouhibus.co.jp/route_bus/kamikochi-line-en/)
As mentioned above, the bus is non-reserved, so passengers can board in the order they arrive in the queue. This morning, we arrived at the queue at 6:00 AM to ensure we would get a seat. (We were worried we wouldn't make it, haha!)
It is recommended to arrive early to queue for the first bus (no later than 6:30 AM). During peak periods, the queue forms quickly. By 6:45 AM, the bus arrives, and it fills up and departs before 7:00 AM.
Once the bus departs, you are free to relax. The journey from Takayama to Hirayu Onsen takes approximately one hour. Passengers may choose to rest or enjoy the scenic views.
The view along the way is breathtaking.
Enjoy the scenic view and you will arrive at Hirayu Onsen in no time.
Upon arrival at Hirayu Onsen, you will need to disembark and transfer to another bus.
The bus will be waiting at Track 2.
Buses between Hirayu Onsen and Kamikochi depart every 30 minutes (at 00 and 30 minutes past the hour). The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on the stop where you alight.
As soon as we get off the bus, we have to run to this line to get there as quickly as possible. (If you follow our route, it's Takayama 07:00 > Hirayu Onsen 07:58, then catch the next bus at 08:00 > Taishoike 08:16.)
The scenic views along the route from Hirayu Onsen to Kamikochi are breathtaking.
A short bus ride brought us to Taisho Pond. We got off the bus at Taisho Pond and then walked to Kappa Bridge.
This is a popular route from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge.
The total walking distance is 3km.
Alternatively, you can take a bus to Kamikochi Bus Terminal and walk back. (Kamikochi Bus Terminal is 300 meters from Kappa Bridge.) However, you will need to return to Kamikochi Bus Terminal to catch a bus again. The distance from Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond to Kamikochi Bus Terminal is 6 km.
Stepping off the bus, a blast of cold wind hit my face. This morning in Kamikochi is extremely cold (probably in the low single digits). There is even frost on the ground.
There it is, Taisho Pond.
At the Taisho Pond sign, there are hotels and public restrooms available.
It is recommended to take care of all your needs here, as the next 1.5 km will be through a forest with no restrooms.
Once you have finished your business, you can begin your hike for the day.
Our first stop is Taisho Pond.
The first view was stunning.
Lake Taisho is a volcanic crater lake formed by the eruption of Mount Yake-dake.
The eruption blocked the Azusa River, creating the lake.
The most striking feature of this lake is its mirror-like reflection of its surroundings, especially during the calm mornings. The sight is further enhanced by the presence of a light mist hovering over the water's surface during the colder months.
It reflects everything, even the shadows of tourists.
We stopped to take photos here for about half an hour. It was really good, really good.
The Japan Alps are stunningly reflected in the water.
It must be even more beautiful when the mountains are covered in snow.
The translation is:
After taking enough photos, we started walking.
The walking paths here are very well-maintained and comfortable to walk on. Some sections are wooden bridges, while others are dirt paths.
The initial portion of the route alternates between marshes and forests.
A short walk revealed a candy-colored mountain reflecting in the water. I had to capture the moment; it was truly beautiful.
After a short walk from Taisho Pond, we reached our second stop.
Our second stop was the Mt. Yake-dake viewpoint.
Mount Yake-dake is an active volcano. It is possible to hike to the summit. The mountain is also known for its beautiful autumn foliage.
We ourselves have always thought that one day we would like to go trekking up there.
The cold morning air caused frost to form.
The atmosphere is fantastic. I love the fog floating on the water's surface.
After leaving the Mt. Yaka-dake viewpoint, we continued walking.
From here, we will start walking into the open forest.
There are quite a few people today. There are many students on a field trip.
As the sun began to rise, the frost on the trees started to melt, dripping down in abundance. At first, I thought it was raining! Looking up, I saw the sunlight reflecting off the water droplets, creating a stunning spectacle.
No need to worry about being lonely, there are plenty of travel companions.
Along the way, you will encounter Japanese Larch trees changing color throughout the journey.
The Japanese cedar trees are turning a beautiful golden yellow.
Along the trail, there are warning signs to be aware of bears. They will also indicate the last time a bear was spotted.
The last time we saw Big Bear was on September 23rd.
To avoid encountering bears while hiking, it is advisable to attach a bell to your backpack. The sound of the bell will alert bears to your presence, giving them ample time to move away.
Walking in this kind of atmosphere, there is no boredom or tiredness at all.
Because the atmosphere along the way is very good.
I encountered many elderly Japanese couples along the way.
They were incredibly strong and healthy, which I greatly admire.
Our third stop is the scenic viewpoint of the Hotaka Mountains.
From Taisho Pond to here is 1 km. It took 1 hour in total. Haha, I crawled like a snail.
The atmosphere is fantastic, and it's a joy to walk. Only 2.5 km to go, easy!
The grandeur of the Hotaka Mountains left us in awe. Their beauty is truly breathtaking.
From this viewpoint, there are two paths to choose from.
This side leads to Tashiro Pond.
Our initial plan was to reach Myojin Pond, so we skipped Tashiro Pond. We turned left onto the Azusa River path.
After turning left, there will be another fork in the road.
If you take the right fork, you will enter the forest.
If you take the left fork, you will walk along the river.
Of course, we should walk along the river.
A little further and we will hear the sound of flowing water. We have arrived at the Azusa River.
The water is very clear.
The walking path is very comfortable. You can walk leisurely and enjoy the scenery.
Upon reaching the river, Tashiro Bridge, our next stop, is just a short distance away.
This sign tells the story of the history of Kamikochi.
The fourth stop on our journey was the Tashiro Bridge.
Tashiro Bridge serves as a halfway point between Taisho Pond and Kappa Bridge. It features hotels, picnic areas, and restrooms. The stunning views attract many visitors who come to enjoy picnics and meals.
** Notably, the Tashiro Bridge offers the first breathtaking panoramic view of the Japan Alps and the Azusa River. **
Looking back from the bridge, we could see the path we had taken.
From the bridge, looking towards where we are going, it is magnificent. Just this is already amazing.
From the Tashiro Bridge onwards, there are two paths, one on each side of the Azusa River, running parallel to each other.
Both routes lead to the Kappa Bridge, but the scenery on either side is distinct.
We decided to walk along the left side first. After a short walk, we came across a spot for eating and picnicking. There were many people sitting there, as the view was excellent. We wanted to sit down too, but it was full. Haha.
Oh! I forgot to mention one thing. Don't forget to bring your bento box to enjoy by the river. It's truly amazing!
A group of Japanese grandparents. They came as a group like this. So cute.
A view from the left bank of the river, looking across to the opposite side.
Looking back at the path we've walked, it's truly beautiful.
I am a journalist and translator. Here is the translation of the sentence:
I love the colors of this season.
After a while, we walked back to the Tashiro Bridge. We will now walk on the right side.
From here, the images show the right bank of the river.
The distance from Tashiro Bridge to Kappa Bridge is 1.5 km.
From Tashiro Bridge (right bank), walk a little further and you will encounter a magnificent bend in the river.
Here, there is a path leading down to the riverbank, allowing you to walk close to the water's edge.
The fifth stop on our journey: the river bend and rows of pine trees.
A view like this awaits you as you walk down to the riverside.
From this point, looking to the left side of the river, there are two hotels. If I have the opportunity, I would like to stay here for a night. It must be amazing.
Very blue water
We ventured towards the bend in the river, and upon seeing it, we were left in awe. The view of the bend and the rows of pine trees was exactly what we had been searching for.
It was so good that I don't know how to describe it in words.
Zooming in on the rows of pine trees, I love it so much.
The mountains in the background are also beautiful, with their green and yellow hues.
If you walk on the left side of the river, you can also go down to the bend in the river.
We've taken hundreds of photos from this angle to update our profiles. It's truly amazing.
The warm light and the pine trees in the background are a perfect match.
After taking photos to our satisfaction, we returned to the main path.
The main path offers the same view as before, but it is a walking path.
If you want to take photos for a long time, it is better to go down to the river.
There are fewer people and the atmosphere is good, as if the place belongs to us.
I am truly captivated by this pine forest. I could sit here for hours.
The mountain behind, the pine trees change color in patches. If the whole mountain changes, it must be very beautiful.
It truly warms the heart.
Across the pine forest lies the Hotaka mountain range.
At this scenic bend lined with pine trees, a table is provided for enjoying a meal. With a million-dollar view like this, it's a must-stop.
Taking out the rice balls I bought, I sat down to eat while admiring the view. It was so blissful, I wanted to stay there forever.
After enjoying the view, we continued walking.
Looking back from where we walked, on the left is where we stopped for rice balls earlier.
Look up at the sky sometimes
The surrounding atmosphere is excellent.
Hotaka mountain range / blue sky / yellow pine trees. It's really beautiful...
From the rows of pine trees, I walked for a short while and saw the Kappa Bridge in the distance. We're almost there! ^^
Before reaching Kappa Bridge, the Kamikochi Bus Terminal will be on your right.
We will have to return here to catch the bus back to Takayama.
The roadside views are stunning, beautiful from every angle.
As we approached the Kappa Bridge, the crowd grew larger. There were also more places to sit and rest.
Approaching Kappa Bridge.
Looking back at the path we've taken,
We arrived here around 2:30 PM.
We have arrived at the Kappa Bridge. Let's take a closer look.
Looking across to the other side, I really like this angle. The colors contrast very well.
The closer I got to the Kappa Bridge, the more excited I became. It was like a scene straight out of a painting.
The sixth stop we made was the Kappa Bridge.
English:
Kappa Bridge is the central point of Kamikochi. There is a bus stop near the bridge, and on both sides of the bridge, there are restaurants and souvenir shops.
The souvenir shop offers a wide variety of items, including small trinkets featuring the local kappa mascot, Japan Alps and Kamikochi-themed souvenirs, and a vast selection of sweets. Outside the shop, various snacks are available for purchase.
Feeling cold and tired, I treated myself to a refreshing soft serve ice cream cone for 400¥. As I savored the ice cream and admired the view, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. It was truly a delightful experience.
This angle is like a painting. Let's go up to the bridge to enjoy the view.
Oh, here it is! We came for this view. This is what it means to arrive at Kamikochi. It's so beautiful, truly beautiful.
We believe that the Kappa Bridge offers the best vantage point to appreciate this stunning view.
Here are several angles from the side of the Kappa Bridge.
After walking 3 km, not only did we enjoy the view along the way,
but we also came across this spot, which is to die for. It's truly amazing.
Tourists stand on the Kappa Bridge, mesmerized by the breathtaking view.
I'm completely smitten with this place. I could pitch a tent and stay here forever.
We spent about an hour here. Originally, we planned to walk to Myojin Pond, which is about 3 km from Kappa Bridge (6 km round trip). However, we arrived at Kappa Bridge a little late, and if we continued walking, we might have had to spend the night there. So we decided to come back another time (finding an excuse to come back).
After enjoying the view to my heart's content, the sun began to set, so I decided it was time to head back. Although, in truth, I didn't want to leave at all.
From Kappa Bridge, walk back about 300 meters to find the Bus Terminal.
Even the walkway to the Bus Terminal is beautiful.
This is the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. We will take the bus back from here.
Before boarding the bus back, we stopped by the Post Office to send postcards.
If you'd like to send a postcard, you can purchase one at the souvenir shop near the Kappa Bridge. The shop offers a wide variety of postcards, making it difficult to choose just one. However, please note that the souvenir shop does not sell stamps. You'll need to purchase stamps and send your postcards at the Post Office.
The Post Office has a dedicated area for writing postcards, equipped with pens and stamps for your convenience.
After sending the postcard, I walked to the car. It was time to say goodbye to Kamikochi.
We boarded the 4 pm bus back from Kamikochi. As soon as we arrived at the bus stop, we were able to get on the bus, and we were the last ones to board. We were very lucky. (The bus from Kamikochi to Hirayu Onsen departs from Track 5.)
We arrived at Hirayu Onsen at 16:30 and returned to Takayama at 17:30.
We spent approximately 7.5 hours at Kamikochi (08:30 - 16:00). This was significantly longer than the average visitor, as we took frequent breaks and stopped to take photos. For this route, a typical visit would take 2-3 hours.
In conclusion, we have completely fallen in love with this place. We adore the atmosphere here. We want to say that this is a must-visit! No matter the season, we believe that the scenery here is always beautiful. We want everyone to experience Kamikochi for themselves. You will fall in love with this place, just like we have.
Additional Tips
1. To fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, it is recommended to spend the entire day here.
Basic Route (Taishi Pond > Kappa Bridge):
- Approximately 3km in length.
- Takes 2-3 hours to complete.
If you wish to continue to Myojin Pond (Kappa Bridge > Myojin Pond > Kappa Bridge):
- Roundtrip distance is 6km.
2. Regarding attire, the weather here is considerably cooler than in the city. Mornings are particularly chilly, while afternoons become warm with the sun. It is advisable to bring layered clothing, which can be adjusted as needed.
3. Bring some snacks and water, as there are only two places to buy food and drinks: the hotel near Tashiro Bridge and the shop near Kappa Bridge.
Thanks God it's Holiday
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 10:01 PM
