• Enjoy a relaxing day trip from Nagoya to Japan's breathtaking Kamikochi
• Choose between easy beginner and advanced walking routes with stunning views
• Discover iconic spots like Taisho Pond, Kappa Bridge, Myojin Pond, and the Hotaka Shrine Okumiya
• Experience Japan's "Jiuzhaigou"- crystal rivers, lush forests, and dramatic peaks
• Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers of all levels
The following schedule may be adjusted due to weather, road conditions, or other factors. Thank you for your understanding.
8:00am - Nagoya Departure
begin today's beautiful journey
7:50am: Gathering
8:00am: Departure from the meeting point in front of Nagoya Station (Mini Stop convenience store behind BIC CAMERA, West Exit, Nagoya)
Address: 5-10 Tsubakichō, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi-ken 453-0015
* Please wait at the meeting point on time on the day of your tour. As this is a shared ride, the bus will depart on schedule and cannot wait for late arrivals.
11:30am – Nagano
▼ Kamikochi – Hiking Tour (approx. 3.5 hours; entrance fees not included)
Route ①: Taisho Pond Bus Stop → Taisho Pond → Tashiro Pond → Kappa Bridge → Kamikochi Bus Stop
For first-time visitors, this beginner-friendly route is recommended. You can cover all the main sights of Kamikochi without backtracking. The full trail is about 3.5 km and takes roughly 1–1.5 hours to complete. The path is flat and easy to walk, with continuous spectacular mountain views along the way that are sure to leave you mesmerized.
Route ②: Kamikochi Bus Stop→ Kappa Bridge→ Myojin Bridge→ Hotaka Shrine Okumiya & Myojin Pond→ Dakesawa Marsh→ Kamikochi Bus Stop
For more experienced walkers with ample time, this 5.6 km round-trip route along the Azusa River is highly recommended. It takes about 2–2.5 hours. In addition to breathtaking mountain and riverside views, Myojin Bridge offers a quieter, more serene experience compared to the crowded Kappa Bridge.
【Kamikochi】– Japan's Jiuzhaigou
Kamikochi, located in the western Hida Mountains of Nagano Prefecture along the upper reaches of the Azusa River, is a popular highland resort at about 1,500 meters above sea level. The area belongs to Matsumoto City and is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. It is a designated National Cultural Property (Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Special Natural Monument) and serves as a base for climbing Mount Hotaka and Mount Yari. The name "Kamikochi"comes from the Japanese hiragana for "神垣内"(kamikouchi), referring to the area where the deity Hotakami no Mikoto of Hotaka Shrine descended onto Mount Hotaka, with worship performed at Hotaka Shrine Okumiya and Myojin Pond.
【Taisho Pond】
Formed by a volcanic eruption from Mt. Yake, Taisho Pond is a volcanic lake. The standing dead trees in the lake change with the seasons and light, creating a magical and ever-changing scenery.
【Tashiro Pond】
A shallow wetland, Tashiro Pond is stunning with fresh green colors in May, golden leaves in October, and thin ice in late autumn.
【Kappa Bridge】
The symbolic landmark of Kamikochi, just a 5-minute walk from the bus center. From the bridge, you can view the Hotaka Mountain Range, Mt. Yake, and the Azusa River. During Golden Week, summer holidays, and autumn foliage season, it attracts many domestic and international visitors.
【Myojin Pond】
About a 60-minute walk upstream along the Azusa River from Kappa Bridge. This sacred area is part of Hotaka Shrine Okumiya. The diverse flora and birdlife make it a peaceful place to connect with nature. Views of Myojin Peak from Myojin Bridge are spectacular and popular with photographers.
【Hotaka Mountain Range】
Visible from various spots in Kamikochi, the Hotaka Range is an essential part of the scenery. Okuhotaka-dake, the third-highest peak in Japan, is included in the "Japan's 100 Famous Mountains," "New Japan 100 Famous Mountains," and "100 Famous Flower Mountains."
【Mt. Yake】
An active volcano at 2,455 meters in the Northern Japanese Alps. The smoke rising against the blue sky creates a beautiful, dramatic scene.
【Hotaka Shrine Okumiya】
The large torii gate of Hotaka Shrine Okumiya stands prominently. At the shrine office, you can purchase limited-edition charms. In front of the shrine, the historic Kamonji Hut, founded in 1880, offers a resting spot with a traditional hearth. Enjoy freshly grilled iwana fish here for an unforgettable experience.
15:00pm – Gather
15:15pm – Return
Return trip to Nagoya Station to conclude the tour (exact return time will be confirmed by the guide on the day).
18:30pm–19:00pm – Arrival at Nagoya
Drop-off in front of Nagoya Station (behind BIC CAMERA, West Exit, at Mini Stop convenience store).
Tips
* Kamikochi is located at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters in a mountainous highland area, where temperatures are unstable and weather conditions can change rapidly. It is recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight walking shoes, and bring a raincoat, umbrella, hat, sunglasses, and an extra jacket to adjust according to the day's temperature.
* In June, noon temperatures in Kamikochi usually rise to 12–17°C. Long-sleeve shirts or light sweaters are recommended. On cloudy or rainy days, temperatures are often lower than average. In July and August, noon temperatures usually reach 18–22°C. In September, noon temperatures are typically 14–18°C. In October, noon temperatures generally rise to 10–13°C, and after mid-October, snowfall may occur. Sweaters and jackets are recommended.
* If the access roads to Kamikochi are closed, the itinerary will be changed to a free stroll in Takayama, and the return trip may be approximately 2 hours earlier than scheduled.
* In case of traffic congestion, the return time may be delayed.
Visiting Attractions
Kamikochi
Meal
B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded