15 Things to Do in Kamikochi, When to Visit, & Where to Stay
Part of the larger Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is a beautiful alpine valley nestled within Japan’s highest mountain range. Open to the public from April to November, it is without question one of the most rewarding outdoor destinations in the country. On this page you will find the following information:
— What to Expect & Why You Should Visit
— Best Things to Do & See in Kamikochi
— When to Visit Kamikochi: The Best Seasons
— Where to Stay When Visiting Kamikochi
— Important Access Information & Rules
— Tours & Charters to Kamikochi
A visit to Kamikochi transports you deep into Japan’s mountainous heartland and to one of its most cherished alpine landscapes. Long considered the domain of gods, Kamikochi has special significance for many Japanese while also offering some of the best hiking in the country. Leisurely trails follow the beautiful Azusa River while more intensive, expert courses lead high into the mountains and to above 3000 metres to the summits of Mount Hotaka, Mount Yari and other peaks.
When planning your visit to Kamikochi, it is important to note that private vehicles are not allowed into the valley meaning that you cannot drive yourself. You will need to use a bus, taxi or tour to enter – see ‘Important Access Information’ below. This makes the option of a tour attractive as it allows you to bypass the need for multiple transfers to enter Kamikochi.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle | |
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| Period | April to November |
| Time | 08:15 – 18:30 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Matsumoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,900 |
Based in Nagano, we are the region’s No.1 tour and charter operator offering both group and private tours along with the option of just transport and/or accommodation. For more information, scroll to the bottom of the page.
WHERE IS KAMIKOCHI?
Kamikochi is an alpine valley located in the southern half of Chubu Sangaku National Park. Located high in the mountains, Kamikochi is approximately 45KM / 70-minutes drive from Matsumoto to the east and 40KM / 60-minutes drive from Takayama to the west. Most visitors heading to Kamikochi will do so via one of these two starting points. From Matsumoto Station, the Alpico Line runs to Shin-Shimashima Station from where buses ferry visitors to the Kamikochi Bus Terminal via the Sawando Bus Terminal – a total journey time of around 2-hours when you account for the transfer times; whereas express buses run from the Takayama Bus Terminal – located next to Takayama Station – to Hirayu Onsen, where visitors must switch onto a second bus headed into Kamikochi – a total journey time of around 1.5 to 2-hours. Access is controlled to ensure the important ecosystem is preserved for generations to come. A long-standing ban on private vehicles means visitors must use coaches, private taxis or tours to access Kamikochi – see ‘Important Access Information’ below for further details.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi – Enchanting Landscapes & Seasonal Beauty | |
| Period | May – mid-November |
| Time | 8:00-19:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nagoya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥28,900 |
| Child Rate | ¥24,000 |
WHAT TO EXPECT & WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT
Part of the larger Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is only open to the public from mid-April until mid-November. Kamikochi is an alpine valley that follows the Azusa River as it descends from its source high in the mountains to the world below, running 18KM from north to south. Kamikochi has an elevation of between 1200 to 1400 metres with the peaks of Mount Hotaka (3190m), Mount Yari (3180m) and Mount Yakedake (2455m) rising high above the valley. One of Japan’s most striking natural landscapes, Kamikochi is effectively a special conservation zone within a national park, offering visitors the chance to enjoy leisurely strolls along multiple trails, more serious multiday treks into the mountains, or simply sit down for a coffee, snack or meal and take in the fantastic views and serene atmosphere. A mix of accommodation is available in Kamikochi, ranging from high-end hotels to mountain lodges and camping.
Long-recognised for its ecological importance and natural beauty, Kamikochi epitomises the traditional Japanese practice of nature worship – a fundamental principle of the native religion of Shintoism. The name Kamikochi can be translated as, ‘place where the god(s) descended’, with Mount Hotaka and multiple other natural features in the valley considered to be imbued with a divine nature and places of devotion. Shintoism believes that ‘kami’ (divine entities) pervade all aspects of the world and our lives, most beautifully demonstrated by awe-inspiring mountains, waterfalls, rivers along with certain trees, stones and other natural features. As such, Kamikochi can be appreciated on many levels, making it one of Japan’s most rewarding outdoor destinations.
BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN KAMIKOCHI
Most visitors to Kamikochi will disembark their transport at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. From there, it’s a short walk – under 5 minutes – to Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge), the most iconic spot in the valley. The short span bridge crosses the Azusa River with the triple-peaked Mount Hotaka rising-up behind. Many visitors don’t venture much further from that point meaning it can be crowded. But don’t let that put you off! The whole point of visiting Kamikochi is walking and following any of the trails even 5 to 10-minutes away from Kappabashi will usually have you away from the crowds and enjoying a truly beautiful landscape. But it’s popular for good reason, so let’s start with:
1 / KAPPABASHI (KAPPA BRIDGE)
Kappabashi or ‘Kappa Bridge’ is around 5-minutes walk from the Kamikochi Bus Terminal and the area around which most cafes, restaurants and several hotels are located. Kappabashi is a small suspension footbridge crossing the Azusa River from which visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of Mount Hotaka rising above and capture what is considered the most iconic spot in Kamikochi – the bridge with the mountain in the background. On either side of the river, you will find cafes, restaurants and hotels making this the busiest area in Kamikochi.
Many visitors spend most of their time here but don’t let that worry you. It’s the start or end point for most walks in Kamikochi so even strolling 5 to 10-minutes away from Kappabashi in either direction will have you away from the crowds and off by yourself.
2 / AZUSA RIVER
Kamikochi follows the Azusa River as it descends from its source in the mountains above toward the world below. The water of the river is astonishingly clear and azure, making it a highlight of any visit. It can be enjoyed from numerous points in the valley with the walk from Taisho-ike to Kappabashi being one of the best ways to enjoy an extended walk along its bank – see below for details
3 / MOUNT HOTAKA
Rising to 3,190 metres above sea level, Mount Hotaka is Japan’s third tallest mountain – only missing out of second spot by 3 metres, behind Mount Kita (3,193m). Also referred to as Oku-Hotaka-dake, Hotaka has three peaks with the mountain holding spiritual significance for many Japanese as it is said to be where a god descended to Earth. Indeed, the name Kamikochi can be translated as, ‘place where the god(s) descended’. Shrines now honour that god or spirit, in the shadow of the imposing mountain and at its summit. Multiple trails lead to the summit and ridgeline of the mountain, taking an estimated 16 hours to reach the summit and return to trailhead. This is a challenging climb requiring you to camp overnight and should all be attempted by visitors of suitable fitness and experience. Otherwise simply enjoy the outstanding views of the mountain from the valley below.
4 / MOUNT YAKEDAKE
Mount Yakedake (2,455m) is an active volcano that sits at the southern end of Kamikochi. The last major eruption of Yakedake in 1915 and the resulting lava flow and landslide blocked Azusa River, forming a natural dam and what is now Taisho-ike. Steam can often be seen rising from the upper areas of the mountain, which can be hiked on a 5.5 to 6-hour trail suitable to anyone of reasonable fitness.
5 / TAISHO-IKE (TAISHO POND)
As mentioned above, Taisho-ike was formed in 1915 following the eruption of Mount Yakedake and consequent lava flow and landslides that blocked Azusa River. A demonstration of the dramatic origins of the beautiful landscape we see today, Taisho-ike is now one of the most cherished features of Kamikochi. On a clear day, the mountains above are reflected magnificently on the waters surface – a striking introduction you can enjoy as your first enter the valley including on the walk from Taisho-ike to Kappabashi – see below for details.
6 / DAKESAWA MARSH
Located around 10 to 15-minutes walk to the north of Kappabashi, Dakesawa Marsh is a beautiful feature along the trail to Myojin-ike. Raised wooden walkways and viewing decks along this part of the trail allow visitors to enjoy the pristine landscape around them including the beautiful waters of the marsh.
7 / MYOJIN-IKE (MYOJIN POND) & HOTAKA SHRINE
Lying around 1 to 1.5-hours walk to the north of Kappabashi, Myojin-ike is one of Kamikochi’s most famous spots. Hotaka Shrine sits in-front of Myojin-ike, in dedication to the ‘kami’ (divine spirit) believed to inhabit the mountain above, while the pond itself is known for its clear waters and serene beauty.
Replenished by the snowmelt each year, the waters of Myojin-ike are strikingly beautiful and a point of worship in their own right. Both Dakesawa Marsh and Myojin-ike can be enjoyed on the circuit from Kappabashi – see below for details.
8 / TOKUSAWA AREA & SHINMURA BRIDGE
Visitors wanting to enjoy the longest walks in the valley including those who then want to hike into the mountains above, will need to make their way north along Azusa River to the Tokusawa area. Trails follow the river to Tokusawa where you will find a camp area and Tokusawa lodge, followed by Shinmura Bridge and further trail leading to the Yokoo Area and trailheads for hikes up Mount Hokata, Mount Yari and other mountains. If you’ve walked this far we recommended staying overnight in or nearby Kamikochi as it really is a full-day experience to venture this deep into the valley.
9 / MOUNT YARI
Standing 3,180 metres above sea level, Mount Yari is Japan’s fifth tallest mountain. Accessible from the trailhead of the Yokoo Area of Kamikochi – several hours walk from Kappabashi – the best views of the mountain are available to visitors willing to walk deep into the valley. Those wanting to climb Yari can do so on a 40km trail taking around 20-hours and requiring you to stay overnight. Much like the trails heading-up Mount Hotaka, this should only be attempted by visitors of suitable fitness and experience.
10 / AUTUMN LEAVES OF KAMIKOCHI
Kamikochi is known throughout Japan for its wonderful autumn colours; something that can be enjoyed in all areas of the valley from late-September to late-October. Any of the walks along the river allow you to enjoy the fantastic colours, which draw crowds from all over Japan. September to October can be very busy for that reason, so if you’re headed there during that time, try to do so on a weekday when visitor numbers should be lower.
11 / WILDLIFE OF KAMIKOCHI
While in Kamikochi, you may well encounter some of the abundant wildlife that populates the valley and wider national park. Monkeys, deer, bears, and plenty of birdlife are all present in Kamikochi including ‘raicho’ (rock ptarmigan). Fondly referred to as ‘thunderbirds’, raicho are an alpine bird that thrive in the higher reaches of mountain ranges. Naturally curious, they show little trepidation when near humans allowing you to take some fantastic photos if you are lucky enough to see one.
You can often spot monkeys – Japanese macaques to be exact – along the trails leading to and from Myojin-ike, while Asiatic black bears are all present in the valley. You are very unlikely to see a bear but it’s important to acknowledge that they are there and it is their territory. Many visitors undertaking walks into the less busy areas of Kamikochi do so wearing bear bells – which can be purchased at multiple shops around the bus terminal or Kappabashi – and signs along the trails will warning of any recent sightings. The bears want nothing to do with humans and you are very unlikely to encounter one but if you do, stay calm and make a slow retreat the way you came.
12 / WALK: TASIHO-IKE TO KAPPABASHI / 1 to 1.5 hours
This easy walk can be undertaken by anyone of reasonable fitness. The walk is completely level and offers some fantastic views of Taisho-ike, Yakedake and Hotaka, Azusa River and includes a pleasant mix of walking through forests and open areas on a well-maintained trail or raised walkway known as the ‘Nature Research Trail’. By starting from Taisho-ike, you are immediately introduced to one of Kamikochi’s most famous vistas – the triple-peaked Mount Hotaka rising above the valley, which on a still, clear day, will be reflected magnificently on the water surface. The trail then leads you into a lightly forested area and criss-crosses pristine waterways. The clarity of the water is stunning and the verdant aquatic plants below the surface are a captivating sight. As the trail continues you will intermittently come to open areas, offering outstanding views of the surrounding mountains. Around the mid-point of the walk you will pass Hotaka/Tashiro Bridge, which takes you onto the opposite river bank where several hotels and lodges are located. The walk concludes at Kappabashi.
13 / WALK: KAPPABASHI TO MYOJIN-IKE / full circuit = 2.5 to 3.5-hours
From Kappabashi we recommend walking along the trail on the western bank of Azusa River – on your left but actually referred as the Azusa River Right Bank Trail as the river is flowing in the opposite direction to which you will walk. You will immediately be captivated by the expansive view of Mount Hotaka and the river shimmering below. As you move along the trail you’ll pass through cool forests and over pristine waterways including Dakesawa Marsh before diving back into the forest and eventually arriving at Myojin-ike and Hotaka Shrine. The trail is well-maintained and features some raised walkways. While mostly level there are occasional uphill or uneven sections but these are easy to deal with for anyone of reasonable fitness. This section of the walk takes approximately 1.5 hours. Allowing time to enjoy the pond and shrine, you can either head back along the same trail or cross Myojin Bridge and walk the shorter, more direct eastern trail back to Kappabashi. To complete the full circuit and return to Kappabashi takes between 2.5 and 3.5-hours depending on your pace and how long you want to spend at Myojin-ike.
14 / WALK: KAPPABASHI TO TOKUSAWA AREA / full circuit = 5 to 6-hours
Hiking to the Tokusawa Area takes you well away from the crowds and to an area most visitors don’t have the time or motivation to reach. If you have both one (or hopefully both!) of those going for you, covering the extra distance is well worth it! To access the Tokusawa Area, simply follow the trail from Kappabashi to Myojin Bridge – either side of the river is fine – and once there, come onto the Azusa River Left Bank Trail (remember the river runs in the opposite direction so this is the trail on the right hand side when walking away from Kappabashi) and undertake the final 50 to 60-minute walk to the Tokusawa Area. It’s clear where to go as there is no trail on the other side of the river. This section of the trail is more undulating and requires good fitness and mobility to complete. Once at the Tokusawa Area you will find a camp ground and lodge – an overnight stay is a great option if you want to walk this far – and just a little further on, the trail head leading into the mountains above can be found near Shinmura Bridge including the trails headed to Mount Hotaka and Mount Yari.
15 / JOIN A GUIDED TOUR
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle | |
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| Period | April to November |
| Time | 08:15 – 18:30 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Matsumoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,900 |
Based in Nagano and operating all year round we offer some tours starting and finishing at Matsumoto Station and Nagano Station that combine a visit to Kamikochi with some of the region’s most rewarding destinations and activities. Our 1-Day Highlights of Central Japan: Matsumoto Castle & Kamikochi Alpine Valley Tour transports you to one of Japan’s few remaining castles in Matsumoto City followed by an early afternoon visit to Kamikochi.
For guests coming from Takayama, we also have you covered with a tour starting from Takayama Station and including a trip to Kamikochi along with a visit to some historical areas of the Hida Region for a day packed with both natural and cultural delights.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi – Enchanting Landscapes & Seasonal Beauty | |
| Period | May – mid-November |
| Time | 8:00-19:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nagoya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥28,900 |
| Child Rate | ¥24,000 |
For guests looking to experience the natural beauty of Kamikochi while still having easy access to the Shinkansen and the amenities of a large city, we also offer a 1-Day Tour from Nagoya taking you to Kamikochi as well as a beautiful flower park located high in the Japan Alps.
All tours are led by locally-based guides and include direct transport all the way into Kamikochi without the need for transfers to public buses. Visitors wanting to enjoy Kamikochi by themselves, as a family or with friends also have the option of a private tour. For further details, see ‘Book With Us! Nagano’s No.1 Tour & Charter Operator’ below.
WHEN TO VISIT KAMIKOCHI: THE BEST SEASONS
Kamikochi has no bad seasons – it is beautiful every day of the year! However, for most visitors, some times are definitely better than others if you are planning your stay. In general, we would recommend May or October as the best months, but you can find beautiful scenery anytime you make the trip up to Kamikochi.
The most important thing to keep in mind when planning a visit is that Kamikochi is closed to public transport in the winter season, which is generally defined as mid-November to early April. The specific dates are released each year, but in general it will always follow the above pattern. This doesn’t mean that you can’t access Kamikochi, but it does mean that you will need to hike in from the nearest bus stop / parking lot, and will need to be prepared for a serious and potentially dangerous winter trek. We don’t recommend trying this unless you are a seasoned hiker and well-prepared for below freezing conditions and deep snow.
In general, due to its elevation, the seasons in Kamikochi are a little different than Tokyo or even Matsumoto. As a rule of thumb, Kamikochi is typically 10 to 15°C lower than Tokyo on any given day. Expect snow on the ground in some areas even into May (and snow on the mountain peaks up through August in most years), and dress for potentially chilly weather year round. While summer brings warmer weather, and a short sleeve shirt is usually sufficient, rainy days may bring low temperatures. Once autumn comes around, snow will start to fall earlier than in the lowlands and the leaves will change color sooner as well. In general, the peak for fall colors will be from around mid-October to early November, and the more popular viewpoints may get a little crowded.
See below for a month by month breakdown:
April: Many of the trees will still have no leaves and there may still be snowy days/snow on the ground. Later in the month, buds will start to form and the early Spring scenery will be quite beautiful. Daytime temperatures are likely to be between 0-10°C
May: Fresh greenery embraces the valley, and there are many sunny days. We recommend May as one of the best seasons, with the snowy mountain backdrop beautifully framing the landscape. Temperatures will warm up to between 14-17°C in the day.
June: Rainy season begins, and with that the number of rainy days increases. It may be difficult to see the mountains through the mist at times, but on a sunny day the views are breathtaking.
July: Very similar to June, but with more warm and sunny days in the second half of the month. A great time to escape the heat of the lowlands and enjoy the fresh, cool air of Kamikochi.
August: Essentially akin to late July, August brings many warm and sunny days to Kamikochi. With much of the snow melted, you can enjoy a purely summery ambiance. Expect temperatures between 20-25°C.
September: While still green, the nights begin to get chilly and the leaves start slowly changing colors starting from the tops of the mountains. Expect temperatures between 10-17°C.
October: The peak of the fall color season, October brings many sunny days, mild-to-cold temperatures, and amazing shades of red and yellow. It may get a little crowded, so make any reservations well in advance.
November: The last month that Kamikochi is accessible by public transport, most of the tress will have shed their leaves and snow has started falling. The mountains will be peaked with a fresh clean layer of white snow, almost like powdered sugar.
WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING KAMIKOCHI
Visitors to Kamikochi have the option of staying in the valley, nearby in some convenient and beautiful hot spring areas, or a little further away in the cities of Takayama and Matsumoto. Our ‘Best Places to Stay In & Around Kamikochi’ page provides information about the accommodation in the valley and nearby areas. Kamikochi offers some of Japan’s best alpine accommodation with prices often high and hotels booking-out well in advance. Thankfully there are also excellent nearby including in Hirayu Onsen and the wider Okuhida Onsen area, along with the always popular Takayama to the west and other destinations to the east of Kamikochi.
IMPORTANT ACCESS INFORMATION & RULES
In order to the limit traffic moving into and through the valley and thus preserve the environment, private vehicles are not permitted to enter Kamikochi. This rule is strictly enforced and means that visitors must use authorised vehicles including taxis, coaches or a tour company to enter the valley – at least for the final leg of their journey to the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. Any unauthorised vehicle attempting to enter Kamikochi will be turned away at the entrance. Visitors can choose to drive themselves as far as the one of the public car parks outside of Kamikochi – located between 15 to 30 minutes before the entrance – but must then use a bus, taxi or appropriately registered vehicle to enter the valley. From the public car parks, regular buses or taxis transport visitors to and from Kamikochi.
Access to Kamikochi is controlled in order to preserve the pristine character of the valley and retain an important ecosystem for generations to come. In order to do so, visitors are asked to adhere to the following rules:
— Take all rubbish with you
— Stay on the trails and do not step on/into marshes and other fragile areas
— Do not feed any animals that you encounter
— Do not collect or take any plants or wildlife from Kamikochi
— Camping is only permitted in designated camping areas
— Fires can only be lit in designated camping areas
— Water is scarce above the tree line. Please conserve those water sources
— Do not throw stones, rocks or other items into the water
Basically, take all the photos you want but please leave Kamikochi as you found it.
HOW TO GET TO KAMIKOCHI
Many if not most visitors heading to Kamikochi will do so via Matsumoto – when approaching from the east – or Takayama – when approaching from the west. Our ‘How to Get to Kamikochi’ page has everything you need to know about getting there from Matsumoto, Takayama, Nagano, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and beyond.
TOURS AND CHARTERS TO KAMIKOCHI
Breathe in fresh mountain air and stretch your legs in Kamikochi!
Based in Central Japan and operating April through November, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Matsumoto and Kamikochi that is sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and combine a visit to several places-of-interest in Matsumoto with a hike in the breathtaking Kamikochi valley. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle | |
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| Period | April to November |
| Time | 08:15 – 18:30 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Matsumoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥23,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,900 |
We are proud to offer a tour of Kamikochi originating from Nagoya. This tour not only provides you with a guided tour of Kamikochi, but also stops at a flower park and farm located high in the Hida Highlands for a relaxing full-day excursion surrounded by the seasonal beauty of Japan. Nagoya is one of the main stops on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line, making this tour a great choice for travelers coming from Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi – Enchanting Landscapes & Seasonal Beauty | |
| Period | May – mid-November |
| Time | 8:00-19:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nagoya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥28,900 |
| Child Rate | ¥24,000 |
For travelers staying in the Hida region, we also offer a tour of Kamikochi with pickup from Takayama. Including a visit to an open air museum of preserved historical buildings showcasing the architectural legacy of Takayama, this tour is the perfect way to get to know the area and spend some time breathing in fresh air.
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Matsumoto/Kamikochi area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Private Tour
| [START FROM NAGANO/MATSUMOTO] Private Kamikochi Tour | |
| Period | April to November |
| Time | 08:15 – Nagano Area 09:45 – Matsumoto Area |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Area Matsumoto Station Area |
| Price | ¥172,100 ~ / group |
Got a question about visiting Matsumoto or Kamikochi? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below and let’s get planning together!
