07/11/2025
Nestled deep within the Northern Japanese Alps, Kamikōchi is one of Japan’s most enchanting mountain valleys — where crystal-clear rivers meet towering peaks wrapped in mist.
In autumn, the entire landscape transforms into a masterpiece of gold, orange, and crimson. The reflection of Mt. Hotaka on the Azusa River is like a painting — calm, silent, and full of life.
Walking along its wooden trails feels like stepping into a living postcard — a perfect harmony of nature’s rhythm and mountain air.
A journey to Kamikōchi in fall is not just sightseeing — it’s pure serenity. 🍂🏔️
🚆 How to Get to Kamikōchi from Tokyo (By Train & Bus)
Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express “Azusa” from Tokyo (Shinjuku Station) to Matsumoto Station — about 2.5 to 3 hours.
From Matsumoto, take the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikōchi Line to Shin-Shimashima Station (about 30 minutes).
Then take an Alpico Bus from Shin-Shimashima to Kamikōchi (about 1 hour).
🕒 Total travel time: around 4.5 to 5 hours.
⛔ Note: Private cars cannot enter Kamikōchi directly. You must park at Hirayu Onsen or Sawando Parking Area and take a shuttle bus or taxi into the valley.
🚗 By Car (Individual Travel)
From Tokyo, take the Chuo Expressway to Matsumoto I.C. (about 3 hours).
From Matsumoto I.C., follow signs toward Kamikōchi / Azumi / Norikura for about 1 hour.
Park your car at Sawando Parking Area (Nagano side) or Hirayu Parking Area (Gifu side).
From there, take a local shuttle bus or shared taxi into Kamikōchi (private vehicles are prohibited beyond this point).
🅿️ Parking fee: around ¥700–¥1000/day
🚌 Shuttle bus: departs every 30 minutes during the season (April–November).
🌸 Best Season to Visit
Spring (May–June): Fresh greenery and snow-capped peaks
Autumn (October): Magnificent fall colors (紅葉)
Closed during winter: Kamikōchi is accessible only from mid-April to mid-November
#上高地 #紅葉 #日本旅行 #自然の美しさ
