Kamikochi

長野県

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Recommended activities and seasons

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Enjoy Natural Scenery:Mountainous scenery / Valley
Get Some Exercise:Trekking

Seasons

Spring / Summer / Autumn

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Kamikochi: A scenic area that symbolizes Japan.

Kamikochi, a scenic area among mountains at an elevation of 1500 meters, is a mountain resort that symbolizes Japan. The gorgeous surroundings, from the beautiful slopes of the Hotaka Mountains to the clear flow of the Azusa River, ponds small and large, and the trees of the deep forest, appeal to all of the five senses. A particular charm of the area is the variety of ways in which visitors can enjoy their time surrounded by nature, from trekking to full-scale mountain-climbing, from easy day trips to long-term overnight stays.
If there is one place that could be called the symbol of Kamikochi, it would be Kappabashi, a wooden suspension bridge over the Azusa River. It is the perfect spot from which to gaze upon the beautiful river, as well as to take in the view of the Hotaka Mountains and nearby Mount Yakedake.
There’s no end to the sights to be seen in Kamikochi! Taisho Pond, whose still surface reflects the magnificent profile of the Hotaka Mountains, was formed when a massive mud flow from an eruption of Mount Yakedake dammed up the Azusa River. The trees that were submerged as a result withered in place, creating an otherworldly scene. Tashiro Pond is a shallow, marshy pond on a grassy plain surrounded by old growth forest. The scenery of Kamikochi enchants visitors throughout the four seasons, from the fresh verdure of spring and the Nikko day lilies and lingonberry blossoms that bloom in the summer, to the hoarfrost of late autumn.

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A sacred place for nature, cradled among the Hotaka Mountains.

An hour’s walk upstream along the Azusa River from Kappabashi brings you to Myojin Pond, which actually comprises two ponds. Hotaka Shrine is situated on one side of the pond, rendering the whole area sacred. Large rocks are arranged in middle of the pond, and the still, transparent surface of the water reflects the greenery of kuma bamboo grass and chosenias. Nearby Mount Myojin dominates the view, creating a mood that can only be called mystical.
Heading farther upstream from Myojin Pond, one comes to Tokusawa, a bright, open grassy plain that was formerly a pasture. In May, white clusters of anemones are in bloom, combining with the surrounding greenery to create a rich natural atmosphere. This is the perfect spot for trekking and camping within view of the magnificent Hotaka Mountains.
In order to protect the precious natural environment of Kamikochi, access by private car is prohibited. Park your car in the parking lot at Sawando or Hirayu, then travel to Kamikochi by bus or taxi. Restaurants and hotels are mostly located around the bus terminal and the Kappabashi, where tourists gather in large numbers.

Kamikochi

Address

Azumikamikochi, Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

Hours

Kamikochi Information Center 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Closed

Nov. 16 – Apr. 27

Cost

Free of charge

Phone

Kamikochi Information Center 0263-95-2433

Access

By Alpico Kotsu Route Bus from Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line Shin-Shimashima Sta. to Kamikochi, about 80 min

Web site

http://www.kamikochi.or.jp/
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DASHI FLOATS & KARAKURI Story SAKE Story SAMURAI Story MONOZUKURI Story JAPAN MOUNTAINS Story DRAGON Story

The Four Shoryudo Routes

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Shoryudo Map
Dragon Course Great Nature Course Nostalgic Course Ukiyo-e Course
  • Dragon Course
  • Great Nature Course
  • Nostalgic Course
  • Ukiyo-e Course

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