Kamikochi (上高地) is a picturesque mountain resort nestled in the Northern Japan Alps, within the Chubu Sangaku National Park in Nagano Prefecture. Renowned for its pristine natural beauty, it has long been a favored destination for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Situated at an elevation of approximately 1500 meters, Kamikochi enjoys a cool and comfortable climate even during the summer months. The resort is surrounded by towering mountains, including the iconic Mt. Hotaka, and is home to crystal-clear rivers, tranquil lakes, and lush forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Visitors to Kamikochi can embark on hikes along the numerous well-maintained trails that meander through the surrounding mountains and valleys. Among the most popular trails are the Taisho Pond Trail, Kappa Bridge Trail, and Myojin Pond Trail. These trails offer breathtaking views of the alpine landscape, including waterfalls, glaciers, and vibrant foliage.
In addition to hiking, Kamikochi offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, and nature photography. The area boasts several campgrounds and lodges, including the historic Kamikochi Imperial Hotel, as well as restaurants and shops selling local specialties.
Kamikochi is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Japanese serow and rock ptarmigan, both designated as Special Natural Monuments. Other notable attractions in the area include the Weston Relief, Tokusawa, Myojin, and the Oku-miya of Hotaka Shrine.
The most popular times to visit Kamikochi are during the summer and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its peak. However, it’s important to note that the area can get crowded during peak season, so visitors are advised to plan their trip accordingly. Access to Kamikochi is restricted to buses and taxis due to environmental conservation efforts.
Getting there
By Train and Bus from Tokyo
- Take the JR Chuo Line to Matsumoto Station (2.5 hours)
- From Matsumoto Station:
- Take the Alpico train to Shin-Shimashima Station (30 minutes, 710 yen)
- Transfer to a bus to Kamikochi Bus Terminal (65 minutes, 2500 yen)
Total journey time: About 4 hours
By Direct Bus
From Matsumoto Bus Terminal:
- National Park Liner direct bus to Kamikochi (1 hour 44 minutes)
- Departs at 5:30 AM and 10:15 AM
- Cost: 4,000 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for children
- Advance reservation recommended
From Takayama
- Take a Nohi Bus to Hirayu Onsen (1 hour)
- Transfer to another bus to Kamikochi (25 minutes)
- Total cost: 3,000 yen one-way, 5,800 yen round-trip
From Hirayu Onsen
- Direct bus to Kamikochi (25 minutes, 1,500 yen)
- Buses run hourly
Kamikochi Visitor Center
| Opening period | Late April – November 15 (open all year round during Kamikochi’s opening period) Closed during winter. |
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 263-95-2606 |
| Address | 4468 Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516 |
| Official Website | https://www.kamikochi-vc.or.jp/ |
