What other travelers are saying about Autumn Leaves Viewing (Koyo)
I visited here in August 2024.
The weather was great—not as hot as in other parts of Japan. During the day, you can walk around in light clothing, but in the late afternoon, it starts to get chilly, and at night, it gets cold enough that you'll need a jacket. The nature trails are well-maintained and perfect for hiking, not too difficult. The views of the mountains and rivers are breathtaking, beyond words. If you stay overnight, you'll see a sky full of stars, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way.
Visited in the first week of November. The park offered amazing scenic views of the mountains, foliage colors and the the azure water of the river.
Most of the popular trails are easy to follow with little change in elevation. On the trail you will likely to meet monkeys. Bear sightings were also reported (we did not see any).
You can reach the park by taking a train + bus from Matsumoto. Note that the park closes on November 15.
Kamikochi is a must-visit for nature lovers. It was an unforgettable experience and truly one of the highlights of my trip to Japan.
What I loved most about Kamikochi was the sense of calm it offers. Whether you’re an avid nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Kamikochi is the perfect destination.
I highly recommend Kamikochi to anyone!
Cannot rate this place high enough. Japan is filled with many mountains and valleys, but seldom are they as nice as this one. The first area is mostly flat and surrounded by mountains and they tower over you, and they have restaurants and other small shops. As you walk the nature becomes more and more untouched until the end, where there is a little shrine. Amazing walk and well worth the time.
