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 offers views of Northern Japan Alps, which have been shaped in part by glacial activity. It has the most dramatic, breath taking landscapes ranging from the highest rocky mountains to the lowest rivers surrounded by lush greenery forests. Its unbelievable. Like it's not even real. It's like the screensaver of my laptop. Enjoy the scenery and take your time. However, the bus taking you from the terminal to the place is limited. Last bus is at 18.00. If you miss it, you might have to stay the night. Oh one more thing, it's a conservation so there are still wild animals living in the forest. You might spot red faced monkeys and, I hope not, bears.
It is a really good scene. Autumn makes it more beautiful, and it is really good for relaxing. There are many people there, but it is still a good one.
I have my own car, so I go to Sawando Terminal and take the bus from there. Parking there is about 1000 ¥, and the bus is about 1800 ¥. I forget exactly how much.
It is pleasing to go there. I hope I will be back again.
Wonderful and unforgettable views in autumn. I came here on 3rf week of October. Autumn color is very great, but too crowded even if we here at 9am.
I'm back here again about 1pm, and many people than the morning.
