Kamikōchi — Attraction in Matsumoto

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...

Kamikochi’s most photogenic and accessible spot. This suspension bridge has incredible views of the Hotaka mountain range and Karasawa Col, while being just a few minutes on foot from the bus terminal. Your gate to the Japanese Alps (and ride home). Most of Kamikochi’s facilities are centered around here, such as its Visitor Information Center, Konashi Campground, various hotels and eateries.

Kamikochi is busy with tourists throughout its open months, but probably the most crowded in October when the autumn foliage comes to life. In summer, however, it’s an awesome spot to cool down. For visitors planning to get to Kamikochi by car, you will need to park at either the Hirayu or Sawando parking area then hop on shuttle buses or taxis to enter the Highlands—private vehicles have been restricted to enter the park since 1994. Shuttle buses cost about ¥1,000 per person; taxis cost about ¥4,000 per car.

Kamikochi is closed to all personal vehicles. It is only accessible by bus. If visiting by car, park at the Sawando parking area and take a bus from there. Buses run to Kamikochi between mid-April and mid-November, and the park is officially open between late April to mid-November. Some facilities are not open between mid-April and late April, and no facilities are open between November and mid-April.

Due to its high altitude and plentiful shade, Kamikochi can be chilly even during summer, especially in the mornings and evenings. During spring and fall, the daily high is around 12°C while the low is near 0°C. During summer, the temperature reaches around 23°C during the day and falls as...

Kamikochi was amazingly beautiful. If you are around, I highly recommend!

25.Nov/2023 is the day I went which was after the closure of the tunnel I didn't know if it was possible until I got there as I was told by Matsumoto info centre that it is "NOT POSSIBLE" to go as the road is closed and the website said the bus service is suspended too.

Alpico bus office said differently I still can go but I would have to walk about 4 hours and she was unsure how the pathways would be like with the snow and so it was up to me.

I gave it a go and as long as you are fit enough and have good walking boots for winter, it's totally possible.

Either from Matsumoto or Takayama, take the earliest but to Nakano Yu. Get off there and go through the tunnel for about 30 mins and I got to the first lake in about 15-20 mins after the tunnel and I think it's totally up to you from this point how you want to do your trip.

I went all the way up to Myojin pond and took me about 3 hours one way with a lot of breaks for photo shooting. I think many people finish at the bridge though.

From Matsumoto, if you rush enough (or finish at the bridge) you could take the 3 pm bus back otherwise there is a last one at 6.

I took the 6pm bus and I did really enjoy the slowness but still I had too much time to kill tbh.

It's recommended but please check the weather before you go and if there is heavy snow, suggest you not go. Even in lat Nov the depth of snow was quite thick , some areas were up...