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Writer's pictureEndo Nagisa

Kamikochi, or some people call it “Little Yosemite”


There are many of those who have visited Japan several times before but still haven’t heard of this place. I am not sure if this is the best way to describe Kamikochi, but I once brought my Canadian friend to Kamikochi, after a short walk he said that the atmosphere, the trees, the mountains and everything are very similar to what he has seen in Yosemite but in smaller scale.

"Kappa Bridge", the symbol of Kamikochi


What it’s like in Kamikochi?

Kamikochi is a very very beautiful valley at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level with Azusa River flowing through. The valley is surrounded by mountains and the most prominent ones include Mt. Hotaka (3,190 m), Mt. Yari (3,180 m) and Mt. Yake (2,455 m). The eruptions of volcanoes and geologic changes over time created many ponds in various sizes here and there inside Kamikochi.

👍 What is so special about Kamikochi?

Beautiful temples in Kyoto, nostalgic street in Takayama city, a field of Pink Moss at Hitsujiyama Park, or illuminated skyscrapers in Tokyo... No need to convince you anymore how beautiful and fascinating country Japan is. But what makes Kamikochi worth putting in the list for your next trip to Japan? Well, the first reason is that Kamikochi was appointed as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, meaning it falls under thorough protection. The another reason is that it was also designated as a Special Natural Monument with particularly exceptional value. Kamikochi is one of only two places that hold both titles at once, together with Kurobe Gorge.


🗾 Where is Kamikochi?

Kamikochi is a part of Chubu Sangaku Nation Park in Matsumoto city, Nagano prefecture. It is located right in the middle between Takayama and Matsumoto city. (See the map below)


📷 What to do inside?

For outdoor enthusiasts Hiking, trekking, camping, bird-watching, snowshoeing, and climbing, pick one you like! Kamikochi offers a variety of hiking courses from beginner to advanced level. Camping in Kamikochi is also very easy with a couple of very well-equipped campsites.

For casual travelers There is no need to hike to the top of mountain to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery in Kamikochi. Walking along the nature trails is simply the easiest way to get the most from your trip to Kamikochi. Just don’t forget to bring your camera or phone with you :D

Stargazing? Trekking? Camping? Pick how you would like to enjoy Kamikochi !


📝 Basic info you need to know

1. No private cars allowed entering the park to preserve the natural environment.

*** Bus and taxi only!!

2. Opening period is from 17th April- 15th November. All hotels and bus services are not available during winter season.

3. There are five rules in Kamikochi; “No collecting living creatures”,“No feeding animals”, “No littering”, “No bringing in alien species”, and “Staying on the path”.



🚶🚶 How do I get there?

I recommend choosing Matsumoto as your base. If you stay overnight in Matsumoto, you can start your day early in Kamikochi without rush.


From Matsumoto to Kamikochi

1. From JR Matsumoto station, take the ALPICO train (Kamikochi line) to “Shin-shimashima” terminal station (30 min).

2. Just a few step away from the train station, transfer to a bus bound for Kamikochi (1 hr).

***From Tokyo to Matsumoto, you have two options. Take a highway bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal (3.15 hr) or take a limited express train "Azusa / Super Azusa" from Shinjuku station (2.5 hr)

Kamikochi Bus Terminal (left) and ALPICO train Kamikochi line (right)


Tips!

ALPICO also provides direct bus services from Shinjuku, Tokyo station, Shibuya, Omiya and Osaka/Kyoto to Kamikochi without transfer. It takes approx 5-7.5 hours. Night bus takes around 7 - 7.5 hr, a little longer than buses that run during daytime (5 - 6.5 hr).


We will write about trekking courses and camping in Kamikochi soon. So stay tuned and please keep follow our Facebook page for regular updates and new blog posts!

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