Kamikochi

Tourist attraction
★ 4.9 (300+ reviews) • 1K+ 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.
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Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1520, Japan

The best of Kamikochi

Make it a getaway

Hotel Hotaka

Hotel Hotaka

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Kazeya

Kazeya

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Shinzanso

Shinzanso

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Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

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★ 4.2 (144)
From RM 575.73
Shinhotaka Onsen Resort in Chirorian
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Why people love Kamikochi

4.9 /5
348 reviews
Read all reviews
lin *******
3 days ago
Kamikochi happened to encounter a typhoon on 11/1 and the flight was unable to fly. Help me get a refund of 70%. Kamikochi is only open until 11/15. The airline also arranged a departure next week. I’m really looking forward to it. It’s great that I can give back 50 cool coins.
Klook User
3 days ago
The tour was very smooth. I love everything about it. I wasn’t able to get to Myojin pond however, my trip their was suffice. I wanna go back next autumn with this booking. Hopefully I’d get to see some snow caps on the mountains already! 🥰
2+
LI ******
4 days ago
Kamikochi is worth visiting. I would like to thank Liu Mei, the tour guide that day, for his very friendly and professional service. He gave a lot of suggestions about scenic spots and routes, which made the whole trip more complete.
1+
Lam *****************
5 days ago
The tour guide Xiao Guo explained clearly and reminded the group members to be careful about the small rocks under their feet. At the end of the day, he suggested a place for dinner to the group members. He was attentive and sincere and polite. Give the group members enough time to rest, and it would be good if you can tell some information about Kamikochi.
1+
Gina ******
5 days ago
We super appreciate our guide. She apologized not being able to speak English well but technology on translation worked so well. It was a great tour for us and Kamikochi is a great place to visit. The place is super beautiful and worth the long bus travel. Thanks for the very memorable experience.
2+
Abigail *****
6 days ago
BEST EXPERIENCE SO FAR ♥️ the tour guide (GUO) is very helpful
Klook 用戶
6 days ago
The scenery in Kamikochi is beautiful and the food is delicious. Tour guide Liu is very serious and recommended to tourists who speak Japanese, Chinese and English as their native language.
NG *******
6 days ago
It's very convenient. You don't have to take a car to go there yourself. It saves a lot of brainpower! There are 3.5hrs on the Upper Highlands excursion, plenty of time, after the hike and back in the car can rest, perfect to take the elders!
2+

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FAQs about Kamikochi

What is Kamikochi known for?

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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!