Kamikochi

長野県

4.7

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Kamikochi, a rare place in Japan with two titles

Kamikochi is a scenic spot located in the upper reaches of the Azusa River, which flows in the southern part of the Hida Mountains in western Nagano Prefecture. It is designated as a national cultural asset (special scenic spot and special natural monument) and has an elevation of about 1,500 meters. The scenery changes depending on the weather and time of day, making it a must-visit spot for breathtaking views.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic ActivityNature

Highlights

Point 1

Admire the Stunning View of Taisho Pond

Taisho Pond is a location where you can enjoy the scenery that perfectly captures the image of Kamikochi, and is often used as a shooting location for guidebooks and pamphlets. The pond was created by the eruption of Mt. Yakedake in 1915, and is characterized by its emerald green water. Visitors are delighted by the changing scenery depending on the season, with remaining snow in spring to early summer, fresh greenery in summer, and autumn leaves in fall.

Point 2

Enjoy Photography at Kappa Bridge

Kappa Bridge, which spans the Azusa River, is a symbolic presence in Kamikochi and a popular spot for taking photos. The suspension bridge is made of larch and is 37 meters long and 3.1 meters wide. From the middle of the bridge, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Yakedake. It is also used as a location for the "Kamikochi Kaisan Festival" held in late April and the "Kamikochi Heisan Festival" held in mid-November every year. It's recommended to visit during these events.

Point 3

Enjoy Hiking on Mt. Yakedake

Located in the Northern Alps at an altitude of 2,444 meters, Mt. Yakedake is one of Japan's 100 famous mountains. It takes about 3 hours to reach the summit, and the hiking trail is full of rocks that allow you to feel the breath of the earth. From the top, you can enjoy a superb view of "Shogako" and "Yarigatake." As there are many rough and difficult parts along the way, be sure to wear proper equipment when hiking.

Point 4

Enjoy Staying in Kamikochi

In Kamikochi, there are many hotels and hot spring inns, making it a great place to stay and enjoy. If you stay overnight, you can enjoy a different view from during the day, such as the starry sky and sunrise. Among the many hotels, the highly recommended one is the first mountain resort hotel in Japan, the "Kamikochi Teikoku Hotel". Its distinctive features are the bright red roof and log cabin-style building, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of its founding era.

Point 5

Enjoy Gourmet Food at Kamikochi Shokudo

Kamikochi Shokudo, located near Kappa Bridge, is a recommended restaurant for tourist breaks and lunches. It opens from 6:00 am and offers numerous gourmet dishes that can only be tasted here, such as iwana (char), Shinshu salmon, and yamabushi-yaki (grilled mountain priest). In addition to indoor seating, there is also a terrace where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the view on sunny days. A gift shop and souvenir shop are also available, making it convenient for souvenir shopping.

Access

Direct buses operate from the Tokyo metropolitan area

If you access Kamikochi by bus, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from JR Matsumoto Station and about 1 hour and 25 minutes from JR Takayama Station. For those heading to Kamikochi from Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, or Kyoto, direct buses are also available. All buses require advance reservations and are popular for their convenience of not having to transfer. Additionally, it takes about an hour by taxi from Matsumoto Airport, the gateway to Nagano Prefecture.

Parking

Be Aware of Car Restrictions

Throughout the year, there are car restrictions in place at Kamikochi. Therefore, you must park your car in a parking lot and access the area by shuttle bus. If you're coming from Matsumoto, use the "Sawatari Parking Lot (parking fee: 700 yen per day)," and if you're coming from Takayama, use the "Akanadana Parking Lot (parking fee: 600 yen per day)." During summer vacation and autumn foliage season, it can get very crowded, so it's recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.