Kamikochi

Tourist attraction
★ 4.9 (300+ reviews) • 900+ booked
Kamikochi, often called the gateway to the Japanese Alps, is located by the Azusa River in Nagano Prefecture. In this alpine valley, you'll find the breathtaking Nishihotakadake and the fiery Yakedake among other surrounding mountains. This hidden gem is your ticket to cooler summer days and vibrant autumn foliage. Plus, it's a hiker's paradise, catering to all skill levels. With a handful of cozy lodges, souvenir spots, and hiking trails scattered across its 15-kilometer plateau, Kamikochi gives you a serene break from city life.
See more
See more
Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1520, Japan

The best of Kamikochi

Make it a getaway

Hotel Hotaka

Hotel Hotaka

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (36)
From RM 760.15
Kazeya

Kazeya

Instant confirmation
From RM 393.75
Shinzanso

Shinzanso

Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (80)
From RM 429.35
Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (146)
From RM 582.76
Mahoroba

Mahoroba

Instant confirmation
From RM 409.56
Shinhotaka Onsen Resort in Chirorian
From RM 1,008.08

Why people love Kamikochi

4.9 /5
326 reviews
Read all reviews
Lam *****
14 Nov
lt's far away, 3 hours to the site and 3 hours back. but the scenary is amazing and worth it. some spot are 50-60 mins walking time (45mins for me) away, you need to plan carefully
2+
Sneha *
12 Nov
Since the roads are going to be closed starting Nov 15th, this was the best possible day trip. We had sufficient time to complete the walking trail and explore Kamikochi. Would recommend checking the weather and going on a sunny day!
2+
Rosey ***
11 Nov
Ms Amy, out tour guide was very pleasant and friendly. She is very willing to take pictures and you can even ask her about other nice places to visit.
2+
Klook User
10 Nov
excellent place for visit ,you can spending time with natural walk. ways.almost schedule be fixed day by day(depend on traffic situation).The guide and driver very friendly.the bus not included toilet
2+
Iu *******
10 Nov
I visited a week before the mountain was closed, and the weather happened to be nice. It was so beautiful! The weather is just right, not too hot or too cold, a one-day tour is highly recommended!
2+
Tse *******
9 Nov
This is a great experience. Meet directly at the west exit of Nagoya, get on a comfortable tour bus, and go directly to Kamikochi, saving you the inconvenience of finding transportation. During the 3-hour drive there, there was a rest stop along the way so that we could go to the restroom and buy supplies, which was very nice. The tour guide has 2 suggested routes with clear instructions. After arriving in Kamikochi, the weather was clear and we enjoyed a wonderful day. Thanks to the tour guide for the tips and guidance.
2+
Klook User
6 Nov
This trip was great. The beauty of kamikochi can't justify on my phone camera. the tour guid also was very accommodating we was able to talk while talking. But were not able all explore all of the places said on itinerary due to lack of time. But the place was great. Recommend to go especially during autumn.
1+
yang ******
5 Nov
It's worth a visit. It's just right to stop and take photos to Yueze Wetland. klook 3.5hr is worth recommending. We started walking from Taisho Pond. The tour guide will ask everyone where to get off (Taisho Pond/Kappa Bridge)
2+

Nearby places to go

3M+ visitors
11K+ visitors
87K+ visitors
129K+ visitors
3M+ visitors
700+ visitors
4K+ visitors
3M+ visitors

FAQs about Kamikochi

What is Kamikochi known for?

Where to stay in Kamikochi?

How long to spend in Kamikochi?

What to know before visiting Kamikochi

Must-Visit Attractions in Kamikochi

Taisho Pond

Experience the unique beauty of Taisho Pond, formed in 1915 by an eruption that dammed the Azusa River. The sight of decayed trees standing in the pond creates a mesmerizing view.

Tashiro Pond

Explore the scenic Tashiro Pond, surrounded by marshland and located along a picturesque hiking trail that connects Kappabashi with Taisho Pond.

Chubusangaku National Park

Discover Japan's Northern Alps at Chubusangaku National Park! From majestic peaks to serene trails, this park gives you year-round outdoor adventures. Ski down towering mountains in winter, hike scenic trails, and explore pristine nature.

Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge)

Located at the heart of Kamikochi, Kappabashi or Kappa Bridge crosses the Azusa River near the bus terminal. Surrounding the bridge are hotels, eateries, and shops. Enjoy stunning views of the Hotaka Peaks and Mt. Myojindake upstream and Mt. Yakedake downstream, a prominent active volcano. The area is decorated with Kesho Yanagi trees and Japanese larch, adding to the bridge's charm.

Myojin Pond

A short hike from Kappa Bridge, Myojin Pond is a scenic spot where you can find the Hotaka Shrine and a hub area with lodges and shops. Don't miss the yearly Omizugaeshi ceremony, a must-see. The crystal-clear waters of Myojin Pond hold great significance in Shinto beliefs, emphasizing the sacredness of nature. As the snow melts from the Hotakadake peaks, it feeds the Azusa River, nourishing the Matsumoto Basin's rice fields and connecting two branches of the Hotaka Shrines.

Tips for Your Kamikochi Visit

When is the best time to visit Kamikochi?

Plan your trip to Kamikochi between April 17 and November 15 to experience the best of the region's natural beauty. For stunning autumn foliage, visit in mid-October, while alpine flora blooms from May to October.

How to get to Kamikochi?

Reach Kamikochi by train and bus from Matsumoto or Takayama, or opt for a highway bus from Tokyo for a scenic journey to this mountain paradise. Remember that private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi, with parking lots available at the entrance gate for convenient access.

How to get from Tokyo to Kamikochi?

Take a train from Tokyo to Matsumoto Station, then transfer to a bus to Kamikochi. The train ride lasts about 2.5--3 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour bus journey. Alternatively, you can check bus and train schedules to catch an express bus from Shinjuku to Matsumoto, and then a direct bus to Kamikochi at the Kamikochi bus terminal. The bus ride from Shinjuku to Matsumoto takes around 4-4.5 hours, plus a 1.5-hour bus to Kamikochi. There are also shuttle buses nearby to get around Kamikochi. Get ready for a scenic trip from Tokyo to Kamikochi!