Kamikochi

Located in the center of Chubu-Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is the best starting point for hiking or climbing the nearby peaks. In one of the most beautiful landscapes in Japan, nature lovers will find Japanese birch and larch trees. The city is located in a narrow valley, 1,500 meters above sea level, along the Azusa River and is surrounded by the peaks of the Hakota range: Mount Yake and Mount Kasumizawa.

What to see

Kappa Bridge

Overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Azusa River, 2 km upstream from the Taisho Lagoon, the “Kappa-bashi” suspension bridge offers a magnificent view of Mount Oku-Hotaka, with an altitude of 3,190 meters. This bridge is the symbol of the city.

• 5-minute walk from Kamikochi bus station

Taisho Pond

In 1915, Mount Yake (2,455 meters) erupted and lava and mud blocked the flow of the Azusa River, forming a large pool. The landscape is full of mystery, with the Hotaka Range and Mount Yake at your back, while a few blackened trees still surround the pond.

• 1 hour walk from Kappa Bridge.

Memorial Stone, Rest of Reverend Walter Weston

A British missionary, Walter Weston climbed Mount Yari and other peaks in the Hotaka range between 1888 and 1894. The term “Japanese Alps” became popular with the publication of his book “Mountaineering and Exploration in the Japanese Alps”. Every year in June, the Weston festival takes place in the area.

• 20 minute walk to the Kappa Bridge.

Suggestions, Hiking routes

Route 1
Duration: About 2 hours

Kappa Bridge – Rest (stone monument) of Reverend Walter Weston – Tashiro Pond – Imperial Hotel Kamikouchi – Bus station – Kappa Bridge

Route 2
Duration: About 3 hours

Kappa Bridge – Konashidaira Plain – Miyojin Bridge – Miyojin Pond – Kappa Bridge.

Route 3
Duration: 4 hours approximately

Kappa Bridge – Konashidaira Plain – Miyojin Bridge – Miyojin Pond – Tokusawa Swamps.