Incontournables à Kamikōchi

Kamikochi Must-Sees

Kamikochi is a high-altitude valley in the Chubu Sangaku National Park, situated 1,500 meters above sea level. This glacial basin is defined by the Azusa River and surrounded by the peaks of the Hida Mountains, including the 3,190-meter Mt. Okuhotaka. Key landmarks include the wooden Kappa Bridge, the volcanic-formed Taisho Pond, and the sacred Myojin Pond. To preserve the ecosystem, private vehicle access is restricted, requiring visitors to enter the area via shuttle bus or taxi.

Kappa Bridge

A wooden suspension bridge spanning the Azusa River. It serves as the central landmark of the valley, offering direct views of the Hotaka mountain range and the active volcano Mt. Yakedake.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

Kamikochi

Kamikōchi is a remote mountainous highland valley within the Hida Mountains range, in the western region of Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

Qurren / CC BY-SA 3.0

Taisho Pond

Formed in 1915 when an eruption of Mt. Yakedake dammed the Azusa River. The pond is characterized by submerged, decayed trees and clear reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Myojin Pond

A sacred pond located at the base of Mt. Myojin. It consists of two sections, Ichino-ike and Nino-ike, and is part of the Hotaka Shrine grounds.

Alpsdake / Public domain

Mt. Okuhotaka

Mount Hotaka, also known as Mount Hotakadake, is one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains as coined by the media, reaching a height of 3…

Tashiro Pond

A shallow, spring-fed pond surrounded by marshland. It is known for its clear water that does not freeze in winter and its views of the Hotaka Peaks.

Hotaka Shrine

The inner shrine (Okumiya) of the Hotaka Shrine, dedicated to the tutelary deity of the Japanese Alps. It hosts an annual boat festival on October 8th.

Kamikochi Imperial Hotel

Opened in 1933 as Japan's first authentic mountain resort. The hotel is noted for its distinctive red roof and Swiss-chalet architectural style.

上高地ビジターセンター

An educational facility providing information on the flora, fauna, and geological history of the Hida Mountains through exhibits and seasonal nature programs.