Kamikochi

4-Day Healing Trip to Matsumoto & Kamikochi 🍃 | Stroll through the Japanese Alps and Experience a Picturesque Wonderland in All Seasons

DAY 1
📍 Exploring Matsumoto City:
Arriving at this small town surrounded by mountains, the first stop is recommended to be Matsumoto Castle! This national treasure-level castle keep is very well preserved. The castle town has many trendy shops and cafes, where you can buy Matsumoto’s specialty, "Sanzoku-yaki," as a snack~

DAY 2
📍 Kamikochi Hiking (7:00-16:00):
Early in the morning, take a bus from Matsumoto Station for about 1.5 hours directly to Kamikochi, the "Japanese Alps." Remember to check the bus schedule in advance! It’s recommended to start hiking from Kappa Bridge, passing by the stunning Myojin Pond and Taisho Pond along the way. From April to June, you can also see the beautiful scenery of lingering snow contrasting with fresh greenery.

👉Tips: Hiking routes are divided into different levels of difficulty. Beginners are advised to choose the Azusa River left bank route, which takes about 3 hours round trip. Late September is the most beautiful season for autumn leaves! Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes.

DAY 3
📍 In-depth Tour of Kamikochi:
On the second day, you can challenge the route to Mount Myojin, where you will encounter many adorable wild monkeys. Have lunch at the Imperial Hotel with their famous Sanzoku-yaki set meal; the restaurant is near Kappa Bridge~

DAY 4
📍 Leisurely Stroll in Matsumoto City:
On the last day, it’s recommended to visit Nawate Street, an old street that feels like stepping back to the Edo period! The Matsumoto Art Museum is also worth a visit. In the afternoon, you can go to the Parco mall near the station to buy souvenirs.

🍣 Food Recommendations:
Matsumoto’s soba noodles are very famous! Recommended is the century-old restaurant "Sanzoku."
Kamikochi’s mountain vegetable dishes and salt-grilled char are must-tries.

🚌 Transportation Tips:
There are direct express buses from Tokyo Shinjuku to Matsumoto.
Round-trip bus between Matsumoto and Kamikochi costs about 4000 yen.
It’s recommended to purchase the Alps Pass for better value.