Hike Kamikochi’s scenic trails at your own pace with free time
Experience a stress-free journey to Kamikochi with direct transportation
Discover Kamikochi’s diverse nature, from lush forests to alpine meadows.
Enjoy a flexible itinerary whether hiking, relaxing, or dining at local restaurants
What to expect
Day Trip to Kamikochi from Matsumoto, Azumino, Omachi, and Hakuba Convenient Access to the Bus Terminal, Off-Limits to Private Cars
Highlights ・Enjoy 2.5 to 3 hours of free time in Kamikochi and explore scenic hiking trails at your own pace. ・Choose your own lunch style—bring a bento or purchase food from local shops. Savor your meal in the fresh mountain air of this breathtaking landscape.
Kamikochi A stunning mountain valley in the southern Japanese Alps, located in the upper reaches of the Azusa River in Matsumoto, Nagano. Part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is a designated cultural property of Japan. Sitting at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, it is a popular summer retreat for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts.
About this experience
Schedule
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Pick-Up at Matsumoto Station or Your Accommodation in Matsumoto City
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Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal & Enjoy Free Time
Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal, Near the Iconic Kappa Bridge, and Enjoy Approximately 3 Hours of Free Time. Explore the Surrounding Area with a Scenic Hike or Sightseeing at Your Own Pace.
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- Recommended Hiking Course Examples -
◆Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond (Azusa River Right Bank Course) – Approx. 75 Min One Way / 3.8 km
A symbolic wooden suspension bridge of Kamikochi, Kappa Bridge is a must-visit spot for most travelers. It offers breathtaking views of the majestic Hotaka Mountain Range, making it a prime scenic viewpoint.
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Weston Monument
A large rock with views of Mount Kasumizawa and Mount Roppyaku features a relief of British missionary Walter Weston, who introduced Kamikochi’s beauty to the world.
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Tashiro Bridge & Hotaka Bridge
Located midway between Taisho Pond and Kappa Bridge, Tashiro Bridge and Hotaka Bridge span the Azusa River. From these bridges, you can enjoy stunning views of the Hotaka Mountain Range upstream and Mount Yake downstream, making them ideal spots for memorable photos.
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Tashiro Pond
As you emerge from the forest, the view suddenly opens up to the tranquil Tashiro Pond and its surrounding wetlands. This serene spot is also known as a prime viewpoint for admiring the Hotaka Mountain Range beyond the marshlands.
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Taisho Pond
Formed by the eruption of Mount Yake, Taisho Pond is a popular scenic spot in Kamikochi. On clear days with the right conditions, the pond creates a stunning "mirror effect," reflecting the Hotaka Mountain Range on its surface.
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◆ Enjoy Free Time for Lunch at Your Own Convenience ◆
Bring your own bento or purchase food from local shops. Enjoy your meal in the fresh mountain air, making for an even more delightful dining experience. You can also stop by hotel restaurants along your walk. *Lunch is not included in the tour price. *Local restaurants may be crowded.
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Regroup at Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Please gather at Kamikochi Bus Terminal. The meeting and departure times will be announced on the day.
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Shin-Shimashima Station (Optional Drop-Off)
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Drop-Off at Matsumoto Station or Your Accommodation in Matsumoto City
Reviews
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The departure time is...
Posted Date: 2023/10/19
bowmore220
We were scheduled to depart in front of the elevator at the Alps entrance of Matsumoto Station at 8:30 AM, so we arrived 15 minutes early. Even five minutes before departure, there was no sign of the vehicle. I realized that we were on the same tour as a group of women and asked, "The car hasn't arrived yet, has it?" Eventually, about 7 to 8 minutes late, a microbus came from across the rotary, and one of the group members confirmed it. Usually, I expect the driver to arrive early and wait for t… We were scheduled to depart in front of the elevator at the Alps entrance of Matsumoto Station at 8:30 AM, so we arrived 15 minutes early. Even five minutes before departure, there was no sign of the vehicle. I realized that we were on the same tour as a group of women and asked, "The car hasn't arrived yet, has it?" Eventually, about 7 to 8 minutes late, a microbus came from across the rotary, and one of the group members confirmed it. Usually, I expect the driver to arrive early and wait for the customers, right? Moreover, I received a final confirmation call the day before, stating that the meeting point was under the elevator. Although the departure was delayed, they adjusted the return departure time, which was good. The driver was a pleasant person, and Kamikochi was amazing. I hope they communicate the departure time and location more strictly. 8時30分に松本駅アルプス口 エレベーター前 出発ということで、余裕を持って15分前に到着。 5分前になっても、それらしき車が来ない。 女性グループの方々と同じツアーだと分かり まだ車来てないですよね?と。 結局、7〜8分過ぎてマイクロバスがロータリーの向こうに来て、グループの1人が確認しました。 ふつう、お客より早めに来て待っているのでは? しかも、前日に最終確認の電話もあったのですが、 集合場所はエレベーター下という事だった。 出発が遅れた分、帰りの出発時間もずらしていただけたのでよかったけれど。 ドライバーさんは感… 8時30分に松本駅アルプス口 エレベーター前 出発ということで、余裕を持って15分前に到着。 5分前になっても、それらしき車が来ない。 女性グループの方々と同じツアーだと分かり まだ車来てないですよね?と。 結局、7〜8分過ぎてマイクロバスがロータリーの向こうに来て、グループの1人が確認しました。 ふつう、お客より早めに来て待っているのでは? しかも、前日に最終確認の電話もあったのですが、 集合場所はエレベーター下という事だった。 出発が遅れた分、帰りの出発時間もずらしていただけたのでよかったけれど。 ドライバーさんは感じのいい方でしたし、 上高地も最高でした。 出発時間と場所は時間厳守、きちんと伝えてほしいです。
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Reply from the operator
Due to mixed operations and traffic conditions, our arrival time was delayed. We sincerely apologize for this. Thank you for your valuable feedback. We will take it into consideration for the future.混乗運行、交通事情に伴い、到着時間が遅くなってしまいました。 申しわけございませんでした。 貴重なご意見いただきありがとうございました。 今後の参考とさせていただきます。
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It was easy.
Posted Date: 2025/09/09
MK
Since it was a busy time during Obon, the bus terminal was crowded with people waiting for buses and taxis, and I was glad I had booked the tour. We only had 3 hours of free time and managed to cover only half of the walking course, so I thought it would have been nice to have an additional 2 to 3 hours.お盆の混んでいる時期だったので、帰りはバスターミナルがバスやタクシーを待つ人でごった返しており、ツアーを予約していてよかったと思いました。フリーが3時間と、散策コースの半分しか回らなかったのであと2〜3時間あるとよかったなと思います。
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Reply from the operator
Thank you very much for your participation. We appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration for the future.ご参加いただきまして誠にありがとうございました。ご意見ありがとうございます。今後の参考とさせていただきます。
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The beginning of Kamikochi.
Posted Date: 2023/07/17
あっくん
I got off at Taisho Pond and walked to Kappa Bridge. I was able to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the scenery, listening to the sounds of wild birds and the clear water flowing in the Azusa River, which felt very pleasant. It was great that I could go directly without worrying about parking or buses around Kamikochi from Matsumoto Station.大正池で降りて、河童橋まで歩きました。ゆっくりと景色を眺めたり、野鳥の鳴き声や梓川の澄んだ水の流れる音を聞きながら、とても気持ち良く散歩できました。松本駅から上高地近辺の駐車場やバスなどの心配をすることなく、直通で行けるのがとても良かったです。
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Impressive mountains!
Posted Date: 2023/10/27
ぼーくん
I was deeply moved by the mountains, which were the same scale as I had seen in photos or even larger. The scenery at Taisho Pond reflected beautifully on the water, resembling a reverse Mount Fuji! The view from the summit, lightly dusted with snow, was also breathtaking. We were fortunate with the weather, and I was able to take amazing photos and have a wonderful experience. The driver kindly agreed to drop us off at Matsumoto Castle, making it truly an enjoyable day.写真で見ていたのと同じもしくはそれ以上のスケールの山々に大感動でした。大正池も景色が水面に映って逆さ富士のような景色!雪がうっすらと積もった頂上の景色にも圧巻でした。お天気にも恵まれ、最高の写真も撮れ経験もできました。運転手さんが、快く松本城へ降ろしていただくのも承諾して頂き、本当に楽しい1日でした。
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Solo travelers are welcome to join!!
Posted Date: 2023/11/08
tao
★Recommended for those who:★ - Want to quickly visit Kamikochi for solo travel or other trips - Are anxious about driving to Kamikochi or have no means of transportation - Want to avoid the hassle of transferring to buses or taxis - Want to save their energy for exploring (especially since driving back can be tiring) - Are staying in Nagano for resort work (definitely a great way to create memories!)
I checked the weather forecast and it looked fantastic, so I made a last-minute reservatio… ★Recommended for those who:★ - Want to quickly visit Kamikochi for solo travel or other trips - Are anxious about driving to Kamikochi or have no means of transportation - Want to avoid the hassle of transferring to buses or taxis - Want to save their energy for exploring (especially since driving back can be tiring) - Are staying in Nagano for resort work (definitely a great way to create memories!)
I checked the weather forecast and it looked fantastic, so I made a last-minute reservation two days prior (Hodaka Station/solo participant).
◎ Even though it was a last-minute reservation, I received a confirmation call the day before. The woman on the phone was very polite and made a great impression with her tone and choice of words. (She confirmed the meeting place and time, number of people, and what kind of vehicle would pick us up.)
On the day of the trip, I arrived at Hodaka Station 10 minutes early, and they were already waiting for me. Upon boarding, I was given a Kamikochi exploration map and a pamphlet. There were only three participants, including myself and an elderly couple, so we had a private taxi (Alpico Taxi). The driver was friendly and engaged in a lot of conversation, making the ride from Kamikochi to Hodaka Station enjoyable and quick.
We got off at Taisho Pond (around 9:50) and had two and a half hours to explore until the meeting time (around 12:30). *The times are just a guideline. The driver kindly took notes and explained the meeting point, which was very helpful since I was in a hurry to understand it right away.
We strolled along the Azusa River course from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge. It felt great to walk along the riverbank. It was an unusually clear day with no clouds, and we could see the Hotaka mountain range clearly (see photos).
I was taking my time capturing the scenery with my camera, but I ended up dawdling too much and found myself needing to hurry to Kappa Bridge 30 minutes before the meeting time (laughs). I didn't have time to eat, so I bought and enjoyed a Kamikochi soft serve ice cream while walking (not the best manners, I know…). I also quickly checked out the souvenir shops before heading to the meeting point.
On the way back, I was supposed to get off at Hodaka Station, but the driver brought up the nearby Hodaka Shrine. When I mentioned I was planning to stop by on the way back, he kindly took me there!
● Advantages - There is a wide range of pick-up and drop-off options from Omachi, Hodaka (Azumino), and Matsumoto stations and surrounding hotels. - You avoid the hassle of transferring to the Kamikochi Line (buses or taxis), saving time on waiting and securing parking. ☆ I sat in the front seat of the private taxi, and when we entered Kamikochi, the driver waved to the security guard like he had a pass, so I joined in and waved too (laughs). It was fun! (laughs)
● Disadvantages - There is a time limit, which could lead to mismanagement of time.
【Impressions of Kamikochi sightseeing and attire】 About 80-90% of the visitors were foreigners. There were significantly fewer tourists compared to the off-peak season.
Since the elevation is high, be careful with your clothing. ↓ For reference: On November 8, the maximum temperature was 16°C (feels like about 11°C), clear skies with occasional breezes. Attire: Heattech, fleece-lined hoodie, down vest. I worked up a sweat while walking, so it felt just right, but my hands and feet were cold. Most people were dressed for winter with down jackets, hand warmers, and scarves. Wearing comfortable sneakers is perfectly fine. ★こんな方におすすめ★ ・ひとり旅や旅行等で手っ取り早く上高地に行きたい方 ・上高地まで運転が不安、交通手段がない方 ・バスやタクシーへの乗換えの手間を省きたい方 ・散策に体力を注ぎたい方(特に帰りの運転しんどいですもんね) ・リゾートバイトなどで長野に住込みの方(思い出作りに是非!)
It was a wonderful experience. I recommend asking the guide about alpine plants and the origins of place names. The area around Kappa Bridge is crowded, so it's a good idea to have lunch and take commemorative photos near the campsite.素晴らしい体験でした。ガイドさんに高山植物や地名の由来等教えてもらう事をオススメします 河童橋付近は人が多いのでキャンプ場付近で 昼食、記念撮影すると良いですよ。
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It was very comfortable.
Posted Date: 2024/09/19
ひろりん
A taxi arrived in front of the hotel at 9 AM, and it was a private ride for our family of three. Along the way, we stopped at a roadside station for a restroom break, and we were dropped off at Taisho Pond. We took some photos and enjoyed lunch at the Imperial Hotel. The journey to Kappa Bridge took about three hours, and we savored every moment. On the way back, it finally started to rain, but we were able to return without waiting for a bus, and I felt it was a great choice to use this service… A taxi arrived in front of the hotel at 9 AM, and it was a private ride for our family of three. Along the way, we stopped at a roadside station for a restroom break, and we were dropped off at Taisho Pond. We took some photos and enjoyed lunch at the Imperial Hotel. The journey to Kappa Bridge took about three hours, and we savored every moment. On the way back, it finally started to rain, but we were able to return without waiting for a bus, and I felt it was a great choice to use this service. 9時にホテル前にタクシーがきてくれ、家族三人での貸し切りでした。途中、道の駅でトイレ休憩にも寄ってくれ、大正池の所で降ろして貰い、写真を撮りつつ、帝国ホテルでの昼食を取り、河童橋までの道中、片道三時間をゆっくり堪能しました。帰り、とうとう雨が降りだし、バスとか待つことなく、帰ることが出来、利用して良かったなと思いました。
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It was comfortable!
Posted Date: 2024/10/26
なう
The shuttle service to the hotel is helpful since the activities really tire you out. This time, we took a taxi just for our group, and we arrived in no time while chatting with the driver.体験内容で体力を使い切るので、ホテルまでの送迎は助かります。 今回は1組だけでタクシーだったので運転手さんとおしゃべりしながらあっという間に到着しました。
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Thank you.
Posted Date: 2025/08/12
えつ
It was unfortunately rainy, but it felt nice and was good. The driver was very kind to me. Thank you. I would like to go again.あいにくの雨でしたが、気持ちよく良かったです。運転手さんには良くしていただきました。ありがとうございます。また行きたいと思います。
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Reply from the operator
Thank you very much for participating. I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed it despite the unfortunate weather. There are breathtaking views in Kamikochi that you should definitely see on a nice day. We look forward to your next participation.ご参加いただきまして誠にありがとうございました。あいにくのお天気でも楽しんでいただけたようで大変うれしく思います。上高地は、天気の良い日にも、ぜひご覧いただきたい絶景がございます。またのご参加お待ちしております。
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I'm glad I participated in the tour.
Posted Date: 2025/09/09
あこ
I visited during Obon. I was prepared for a lot of people, but aside from the area around Kappa Bridge, it wasn't as crowded as I expected, and I was able to enjoy it leisurely. Also, I originally planned to go by car, but I changed to participating in a tour. Looking at the line for the bus to Sawando Parking Lot on the way back, I was glad I chose the tour!お盆での利用でした。人が多いのは覚悟してましたが、河童橋付近以外は思ったほど人が密集してなくてゆったりと楽しめました。あと、元々は自家用車で行こうと思ってたのをツアー参加に変更したのですが、帰りのさわんど駐車場行きのバスの待ち列を見て、ツアーにしておいて良かったと思いました!
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Reply from the operator
I'm very glad to hear that you were able to avoid the crowds and enjoy your experience. Thank you for participating!混雑を避け楽しんでいただけたようで大変うれしく思います。ご参加ありがとうございました!