Autumn Kamikochi Complete Guide|Autumn Leaves Spots, Best Time to Visit, and Recommended Walking Routes

*This article was created for Overseas Travel, but people in Japan can also enjoy it.

Kamikochi, located in the Azumi region of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, is a renowned Japanese tourist destination. Boasting an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters, this scenic mountain area is known as the gateway to the Northern Alps. Surrounded by abundant nature, including the crystal-clear Azusa River and Hotaka range, the area attracts many climbers and hikers. Visitors are particularly captivated by the clear waters of the Azusa River, nicknamed "Azusa River Blue" for its distinctive color and transparency. Kamikochi boasts numerous springs, and peeking into the water's surface reveals gushing water and char gushing from the riverbed. The abundant water is utilized by Kamikochi 's tourist facilities.

Kamikochi, which is also popular as a summer resort, begins the autumn foliage season around late Sep., one step earlier. The beautiful contrast between the hardwood leaves, the golden larch and the Azusa River, and the gradation of autumn leaves on the Hotaka mountain range. The color begins at a high altitude and gradually spreads along the valley and rivers, as well as the autumn leaves and mountain shadows reflected on the surface of lakes such as Taisho Pond, creating a dramatic landscape unique to Kamikochi. If the timing is right, you can enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped Hotaka mountain range and autumn leaves.

As we approach winter, daylight hours decrease, and the mornings and evenings of Kamikochi are cold. In the early morning, fog often gathers, creating a fantastic landscape that cannot be expressed in photographs. In addition, in the early morning of early Nov., you can see the Kappa Bridge that has turned slightly white due to frost, and the "frost ice" that thensly frosts on the trees. The frost ice that sparkles in the morning sun melts as soon as the sun rises, making it a rare sight that can only be seen in the early morning.

The autumn leaves of Kamikochi begin gradually around late Sep. and are usually in full bloom in mid-Oct. ~ late Oct. every year. The autumn and yellow leaves of broad-leaved trees begin around mid-Oct., and the yellow leaves of larch change color from late Oct. ~ early Nov.. As the closing season approaches, you can see larch leaves dyeing the ground. The autumn leaves fluctuate depending on the weather and temperature, so it is recommended to check the progress of the colors with a live camera before visiting.

In the autumn Kamikochi, the cold in the mornings and evenings becomes even more severe. The lowest temperature is in the single digits in late Sep., and sometimes it is below freezing in Oct.. Nov. will have a maximum temperature of around 10°C, and the wind blowing through will be quite cold. In addition, there are many rainy days in Sep. due to typhoons, and full-fledged snowfall in Nov.. Oct. has relatively stable weather, but it is important to bring rain gear and leave plenty of room to choose clothes even on sunny days because the weather is prone to sudden changes due to the mountainous area.

Kappa Bridge is a suspension bridge that symbolizes Kamikochi. The clear flow of the Azusa River, the vibrant autumn leaves, the Hotaka mountain range towering in the background, and the suspension bridge that blends into the beautiful nature are all well-known photo spots. View from the top of the bridge Hotaka The Azusa River, which is surrounded by mountain ranges and autumn leaves, is also a must-see. It is surrounded by hotels and dining options, making it the busiest area in Kamikochi.

Taisho Pond was created by the eruption of Mount Yakedake. The mountains and autumn leaves are reflected on the calm surface of the pond, allowing you to enjoy beautiful upside-down autumn leaves. The area around the pond is like a sandy beach, and this white sand-like thing is broken granite. The distinctive blue of Taisho Pond and the Azusa River appears blue due to the reflection of this granite.

Standing directly under Mt. Myojin, the sacred area of Hotaka Shrine "Myojin Pond". In ancient times, it was also called "Kagami Pond", and the clear water surface reflects its appearance beautifully as the coniferous forest surrounding the pond turns golden yellow. Revered as the Japan Alps, it is a power spot to visit along with the inner shrine of the Hotaka Shrine. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy the autumn leaves in a calm place.

Like Taisho Pond, Tashiro Pond is a calm marshland and lakeside area created by the eruption of Mount Yakedake. It is said that the water used to be 5m deep, but over the years, sediment has flowed into the pond, making it shallower. The iron-rich yellow soil, combined with the autumn leaves, creates a beautiful landscape. You can spend a relaxing time enjoying the autumn scenery while watching the autumn leaves reflected on the water's surface and the plants that adorn the waterside.

Among the walking routes to enjoy the Kamikochi mountain trip, the promenade in front of the Kamikochi Onsen Hotel and the Kamikochi Lumiesta Hotel can see the entire Mt. Kasumizawa. It offers a panoramic view of the autumn leaves of larch trees and the clear Azusa River, so many people stop to take pictures.

There are three bus terminals in Kamikochi, and it is common to get off at "Taisho Pond", "In front of the Imperial Hotel", and "Kamikochi (near Kappa Bridge)" and take a walk.

〈For beginners〉
Distance: about 4 km, about 80 minutes
Taisho Pond Bus Stop→ Taisho Pond→ Tashiro Pond/Tashiro Marsh→ Weston Monument→ Kappa Bridge→ Kamikochi Bus Terminal

〈For those who want to walk well〉
Distance: about 9.5km, about 3 hours
Taisho Pond Bus Stop→ Taisho Pond→ Tashiro Pond, Tashiro Marsh→ Weston Monument→ Kappa Bridge→ Myojin Pond→ Kappa Bridge→ Kamikochi Bus Terminal

Choose a walking route according to the time of day and your physical strength.

For autumn Kamikochi walks, layering is the basics. Fleece, down jackets, windbreakers, and waterproof and windproof jackets are a must. Especially if you leave early in the morning or visit near Nov., prepare warm gear such as gloves, hats, and neck warmers. Considering that your body temperature rises when walking, we recommend wearing an inner layer that is breathable. Also, hiking shoes, trekking shoes, or shoes with solid non-slip soles. Don't forget rain gear, spare batteries, hydration, and Light meal when walking.

Kamikochi is surrounded by a variety of Accommodation styles, from hotels and mountain huts to spa inns to campsites and cottages where you can enjoy empty-handed. A night in the mountains will give you an even more appreciation for the twilight and morning tranquility, the full stars, and the blank time that you can't get on Kamikochi a day trip. Kamikochi also has many spectacular views that you can't find on a day trip. Please take a look at it.

Due to the high altitude and the clarity of the air, if the weather is good, you can encounter a sky full of stars. Immediately after leaving the inn, your eyes are not used to the darkness, so get used to your eyes before looking at the night sky. You can see many stars even if there are lights in hotels, but if you want to see the Milky Way, bring your headlights and go to a place where the hotel lights cannot reach. The shadows of the mountain ranges and the beautiful starry sky are a special sight that can only be seen by those who Accommodation Kamikochi.

Accommodation Another attraction to do is to take an early morning walk. The morning sun that can stand on Taisho Pond and the Hotaka mountain range illuminated by the morning sun are unique to the early morning. It is a very cold time, but the warmth of the sun after sunrise and the cool air unique to autumn mornings will make you feel refreshed. After enjoying the sunrise, it is also recommended to take a stroll around the area before the tourist crowds increase.

Kamikochi has private car regulations in place, and direct access by ordinary cars is not possible.
〈By car〉
The common route is to take the Nagano Expressway, Matsumoto IC/or Gifu Prefecture via Hirayu, park your car at Sawatari Parking Lot, Hirayu Parking Lot, etc., and take a shuttle bus or taxi to the Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
〈By public transportation〉
Shinjuku From the station, take the limited express Azusaya highway bus to Matsumoto Station. From Matsumoto Station, take the Alpico Kotsu Kamikochi line to Shinjima Station. Take the local bus (reservation required) to the Kamikochi bus terminal.
There are few of them, but there are also direct buses from Shinjuku, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka (reservation required).

During the autumn foliage season, both buses and taxis are expected to be crowded, so it is safe to book departure times, parking lots, and move early.

Autumn Kamikochi offers a stunning landscape that is different from summer, with the Hotaka mountain range adorned with snow-capped hardwood and larch leaves. Accommodation You may encounter a sky full of stars, morning snow, frost, and other landscapes. If you take a stroll along the beautiful Azusa River, you are sure to enjoy the beautiful nature of Japan. Please visit Japan to experience the unique scenery of Kamikochi, where you can easily see the changing mountain scenery.