Kamikochi

Scenic spot

★ 4.8 (800+ reviews) • 4K+ booked

Kamikochi, often called the gateway to the Japanese Alps, is located by the Azusa River in Nagano Prefecture. In this alpine valley, you'll find the breathtaking Nishihotakadake and the fiery Yakedake among other surrounding mountains. This hidden gem is your ticket to cooler summer days and vibrant autumn foliage. Plus, it's a hiker's paradise, catering to all skill levels. With a handful of cozy lodges, souvenir spots, and hiking trails scattered across its 15-kilometer plateau, Kamikochi gives you a serene break from city life.

Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1520, Japan

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4.8 /5

800+ reviews

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Marko ***

29 Jun

Clear mountain streams, reflective ponds, forest paths, and snow-capped peaks create an enchanting landscape. Full-day coverage from departure to return; no transfers or complicated logistics— value well beyond the price.

feros *****

26 Jun

the tour guide explain in good english. the place is very recommended coz its so beautiful. the tour went very smooth until the end

Anh *****

15 Jun

amazing trip. the transportation is smooth, the guide lady is very supportive and provide sufficient info

Yusni *****

14 Jun

The natural scenery is very beautiful and natural, the air is cool, the water is clear... the best time to go to Kamikochi is summer.

Ng *******

14 Jun

The weather was good and we set off on time. We were able to walk from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge, but unfortunately we didn't have enough time to walk to Myojin Pond.

Klook客路用户

13 Jun

Very satisfied 💯💯 I stayed near Nagoya Station and found it quickly with the navigation. The tour guide was enthusiastic and reliable, the weather was great, and the itinerary was great! I met a group of local apes who were out for a stroll. They were polite and cute. I will go again next time ✌️

Ke **

11 Jun

The bus tour without a tour guide will provide Chinese maps, precautions and store discount coupons. It departs from the meeting point in Nagoya to Kamikochi. It takes about 3.5 hours to arrive without traffic jams. It will stop at the road station to rest, go to the toilet and buy things. The driver will clearly inform the boarding time, which is very suitable for solo travelers who do not speak Japanese. The driver drives very smoothly and very well. It is best to take a photo of the license plate to avoid getting on the wrong bus. Staying in Kamikochi for 4 hours is enough for hiking 5.7K. Although it is cloudy, the scenery is very beautiful. Because of the self-paid grilled rock fish lunch, coffee and dessert, I stayed too much time and finally hurried to catch up with the return time. It is a place worth visiting again. Next time I have the opportunity to come to Kamikochi again, I will still join this tour.

Hui ***

10 Jun

This is the most scenic place I've been. The weather was just nice for a leisurely hike. Temperature hovers around 18 degree celsius in early June and I didn't even break a sweat throughout the 3hrs hike. For those who wants to visit the Myojin shrine from the starting point at Taisho pond, do hasten your pace as there will just be enough time to finish the route back to to the bus terminal, without much time for lunch. For those who just want to take it easy, its recommended to stop at Kappa bridge which takes about 1.5h from starting point. Most of the scenic spots are from Taisho to Kappa bridge. It's the one place that you'll want to visit in every season.

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What is Kamikochi known for?

Where to stay in Kamikochi?

How long to spend in Kamikochi?

Must-Visit Attractions in Kamikochi

Taisho Pond

Experience the unique beauty of Taisho Pond, formed in 1915 by an eruption that dammed the Azusa River. The sight of decayed trees standing in the pond creates a mesmerizing view.

Tashiro Pond

Explore the scenic Tashiro Pond, surrounded by marshland and located along a picturesque hiking trail that connects Kappabashi with Taisho Pond.

Chubusangaku National Park

Discover Japan's Northern Alps at Chubusangaku National Park! From majestic peaks to serene trails, this park gives you year-round outdoor adventures. Ski down towering mountains in winter, hike scenic trails, and explore pristine nature.

Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge)

Located at the heart of Kamikochi, Kappabashi or Kappa Bridge crosses the Azusa River near the bus terminal. Surrounding the bridge are hotels, eateries, and shops. Enjoy stunning views of the Hotaka Peaks and Mt. Myojindake upstream and Mt. Yakedake downstream, a prominent active volcano. The area is decorated with Kesho Yanagi trees and Japanese larch, adding to the bridge's charm.

Myojin Pond

A short hike from Kappa Bridge, Myojin Pond is a scenic spot where you can find the Hotaka Shrine and a hub area with lodges and shops. Don't miss the yearly Omizugaeshi ceremony, a must-see. The crystal-clear waters of Myojin Pond hold great significance in Shinto beliefs, emphasizing the sacredness of nature. As the snow melts from the Hotakadake peaks, it feeds the Azusa River, nourishing the Matsumoto Basin's rice fields and connecting two branches of the Hotaka Shrines.

Tips for Your Kamikochi Visit

When is the best time to visit Kamikochi?

Plan your trip to Kamikochi between April 17 and November 15 to experience the best of the region's natural beauty. For stunning autumn foliage, visit in mid-October, while alpine flora blooms from May to October.

How to get to Kamikochi?

Reach Kamikochi by train and bus from Matsumoto or Takayama, or opt for a highway bus from Tokyo for a scenic journey to this mountain paradise. Remember that private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi, with parking lots available at the entrance gate for convenient access.

How to get from Tokyo to Kamikochi?

Take a train from Tokyo to Matsumoto Station, then transfer to a bus to Kamikochi. The train ride lasts about 2.5--3 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour bus journey. Alternatively, you can check bus and train schedules to catch an express bus from Shinjuku to Matsumoto, and then a direct bus to Kamikochi at the Kamikochi bus terminal. The bus ride from Shinjuku to Matsumoto takes around 4-4.5 hours, plus a 1.5-hour bus to Kamikochi. There are also shuttle buses nearby to get around Kamikochi. Get ready for a scenic trip from Tokyo to Kamikochi!

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