Kamikochi: I did not expect it to be this beautiful

Kamikochi, a prime attraction of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and the starting point of many alpine adventures, is located in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture.

Our half day walking adventure took us 7 hours, breaks included, from the bus terminal to Tokusawa Campground and back to the bus terminal. The water is crystal clear – and freezing cold! The mountain view is spectacular, we saw birds and ducks along the way – although we were notified of bears and wild monkeys, we never saw them.

Private cars are prohibited from entering Kamikochi, it is an effort to protect the natural beauty of the environment. Designated shuttle buses are used to reach this area.

Kamikochi is not open all year round. Check their website to know their opening season.

Enjoy!