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.
The Japanese Alps offer a picturesque landscape, however, the sightseeing spots tend to be congested with tourists, resulting in a somewhat noisy environment. Nonetheless, the trekking routes are well-marked and accessible, making them suitable for beginners seeking an easy hiking experience.
Kamikochi is one of Japan's most spectacular mountain destinations, located in the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano Prefecture. This pristine valley, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and offers some of the country's most breathtaking alpine scenery.
The area features crystal-clear rivers, particularly the Azusa River, which winds through the valley floor, creating stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The most iconic sight is the Kappa Bridge, a wooden suspension bridge that serves as the central landmark and gathering point for visitors. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and the pyramid-shaped Mount Yari.
Kamikochi is a protected area with strict environmental regulations. Private cars are not allowed, and visitors must use designated buses or taxis from nearby towns such as Matsumoto or Takayama. The best time to visit is from mid-April to mid-November, as the area is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
The area offers hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy peaceful walks along the river, while experienced mountaineers can challenge themselves with climbs to surrounding peaks. Popular easy trails include the path to Myojin Pond and the walk to Taisho Pond, known for its submerged trees and mountain reflections.
Accommodation options range from luxury hotels like the historic Kamikochi Imperial Hotel to mountain huts and camping grounds. The Kamikochi Bus Terminal area has restaurants, souvenir shops, and information centers. While dining options are somewhat limited and prices tend to be higher than in cities, the quality and experience are worth it.
Wildlife is abundant in Kamikochi, with Japanese macaques and local bird species frequently spotted. Visitors should follow park rules about not feeding wildlife and properly disposing of trash to preserve the natural environment.
For the best experience, it's recommended to stay at least one night to fully appreciate the area's morning and evening atmosphere. Early mornings are particularly magical, with mist rising from the river and fewer crowds. Remember to bring appropriate clothing as mountain weather can be unpredictable, even in summer months.
Advance reservations for accommodation are essential, especially during peak seasons like autumn foliage viewing in October and summer holidays in August. The nearest major city is Matsumoto, which serves as a convenient base for accessing Kamikochi and is worth visiting for its famous original castle and other cultural attractions.
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.
Came here on autumn 13 Nov 2024, it was wonderful I will let the photos speak for itself.
Since this year it will be closed on 15 Nov, we're afraid that it might get too crowded. Luckily it's still okay, crowd stop at Kappa Bridge, when we go to Myojin Pond it's so relaxing and the picturesque scenery make the trip even better.
Pro tips:
1. All resto closed at 3 PM, pls ensure to got your lunch before that.
2. Buy your return bus ticket directly after arrive to ensure you got the seat.
