Kamikochi

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Facts & Figures

Kamikochi is a beautiful highland valley 1500m above sea level and appr. 18km long. The scenery with the surrounding mountains and volcano (Mt. Okuhotaka 3190m, Mt. Yari 3180m, Mt. Jonen 2857m, Mt. Cho 2677m, Mt. Kasumizawa 2646m, Mt. Yake 2455m, Mt. Nishi 2398m) is simply breathtaking.  Buy now and Save >
Since 2004 I have traveled nearly every year to Japan. The rail pass made my life easier to discover all those amazing places in my favorite country. The valley, divided by the cristal clear water of the Azusa River, is part of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park and located within the Hida Mountains range. It belongs to the Japanese government's list of Special Places of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monuments. Enjoy a hiking tour to Taisho Pond and don´t be surprised to see wild monkeys along the trail. Good to know that Kamikochi can get really crowded during the months July and August (holiday season) and October.

History

Walter Weston (1860 - 1940), an English missionary, introduced mountain climbing as a new sport to the public in Japan. He was also the driving force behind the protection of the Kamikochi area. In 1906 he was one of the founder of the Japanese Alpine Club.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Kappabashi or Kappa Bridge - the symbol of this mountain resort, wooden suspension bridge offers scenic views over the surrounding mountains, my must-see recommendation for you

Taisho Pond - was formed by a volcano eruption of Mt. Yakedake on June 6th 1915, the pond has a mystical atmosphere and is a very popular tourist spot

Tashiro Pond - have your camera ready to capture this beautiful scene, the small pond and marshland is located between Kappa Bridge and Taisho Pond

Myojin Pond - it takes a 1 hour hiking tour from the Kappa Bridge to this place, a Japanese Zen garden like landscape is waiting for you with Hotaka Shrine Inner Alter nearby

Takezawa Marsh - one of the most beautiful places in the valley, Kappa Bridge is just 10min away by foot

Shinmura Bridge - a suspension bridge along the Azusa River hiking trail

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Kamikochi Opening Ceremony (27th)
The ceremony is held at the Kappa Bridge.

June

Kamikochi Music Festival (13th)
Expect some nice spirited performances at the Kamikochi Konashi Daira camping place.