Kamikochi truly lives up to its reputation as Japan's Jiuzhaigou!

Kamikochi Travel Guide Basic Information - Location: Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. A highland valley in the Northern Alps at approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. - Opening Period: Mid-April to mid-November (expected until November 3, 2025). Closed during winter. Best Seasons - Summer (June-August): Perfect summer retreat with average temperatures of 20-25°C, ideal for hiking. - Autumn (September-October): Fall foliage season transforms the mountains into a picturesque landscape. Key Attractions 1. Kappa Bridge: Iconic landmark offering views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and Azusa River, surrounded by souvenir shops and restaurants. 2. Taisho Pond: A dammed lake formed by volcanic eruption, famous for its morning mist, starry skies, and breathtaking reflections of snow-capped mountains. 3. Tashiro Pond: A mirror-clear wetland pond that changes colors with the seasons. 4. Myojin Pond: A mystical forest lake perfect for quiet walks, with access to Hotaka Shrine's inner sanctuary. Hiking Trails - Easy Routes (1-2 hours): - Taisho Pond → Kappa Bridge: Follow the Azusa River with Hotaka Mountain views (~1h10m). - Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond: Round trip (~2h) through Takezawa Marsh, recommended for moderately fit hikers. Transportation - From Tokyo: - Direct bus: ~5-6 hours from Shinjuku Station. - Train + bus: JR to Matsumoto Station → Matsumoto Electric Railway to Shin-Shimashima Station → ~1h bus ride. - From Nagano Station: ~2h via "Sōshinshū-go" express bus. Accommodation - In Kamikochi: e.g., Kamikochi Lemeista Hotel (onsen available, advance booking required). - Nearby hot spring towns: Try milky-white baths at Shirahone Onsen Konashi no Yu Sasaya. Important Notes 1. Transport: Private vehicles prohibited; mandatory shuttle buses require reservations. 2. Environment: Carry out all trash (no bins); wildlife feeding prohibited. 3. Safety: Carry bear bells; trails get slippery (caution in rain). 4. Cash: Limited ATMs; bring sufficient cash (some toilets require ¥100 coins). 5. Gear: Non-slip shoes, rain gear, and layered clothing (significant temperature swings). Food Recommendations - Kamikochi Shokudo: Nagano-style breakfast sets with signature "Kappa-yaki" dessert. - Green Pot: Famous for "sanzoku-yaki" grilled meat sets and pork cutlet curry. - Nakanoyu Soba: Handmade buckwheat noodles paired with onsen visits. Pro Tip: Visit at dawn/dusk for crowd-free scenery; check official websites for real-time bus schedules and weather updates.