Kamikochi: Explore the Outdoors: A Day Trip to Beautiful Rivers and Forests

Want to take a deep breath of Japanese nature? Kamikochi in Matsumoto is definitely a beautiful secret place, surrounded by mountains and rivers, with four distinct seasons. Not only can you see the spectacular Mount Hodaka, but also the famous Kappa Bridge, where you can feel the beauty of Japan’s pristine forest. The Kappa Bridge is the most iconic photo spot in the Upper Highlands, overlooking the snow-capped mountains in the distance, overlooking the clear stream, absolutely suitable for just enjoying the quiet nature, hiking and walking, taking pictures.

Itinerary route suggestions:
From Matsumoto City, take a bus or taxi to Kamikochi (Address: Matsumoto Nagano Prefecture) and walk from the entrance to Kappa Bridge (Address: Kamikochi Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516 Japan). Along the way you can feel the intertwined streams, woods, and mountain views, it is especially recommended to arrive before 9 am to avoid the crowds and easier to take beautiful photos of no one quiet. Continuing the walk from the Kappa Bridge, you can easily walk around in about 2-3 hours, perfect for families or couples.

Must-play items:
1. Walk the Kappa Bridge to Myojin Pond lightweight route, super beautiful views, morning water reflecting the mountains, camera essentials.
2. Walking quietly in the native forests of the Upper Highlands, sometimes even seeing wildlife, really feels super far from the city.
3. View of Hodaka Mountain in the distance from the bridge, the scenery has different feelings in all seasons: spring and summer greenery, autumn leaves, early winter with snow.

📸 Check-in spot recommendation:
- Central location of the Kappa Bridge: Shadow Lake reflecting the mountains, behind the magnificent Hodaka Mountain, like a postcard.
- Myojin Pond: The water is clear and the reflection of the pine trees is beautiful!
- Up the Highland Trail along the giant sequoia forest: take a deep breath and take a forest bath.

Attraction Tips:
- Open: April 27-June 30 05:00-19:00 / July 1-August 31 05:00-20:00 / September 1-November 15 05:00-19:00 every year.
- It is recommended to prepare comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen essentials, mountainous temperature difference is large, jacket to bring.
- The route is generally flat and suitable for most people, except for slippery road safety during the small rainy season.
- For food consider bringing your own snack picnic, few restaurants along the way.

Summary: Upper Highlands is really a natural oxygen bar, Kappa Bridge photos beautiful, walk all the way comfortable, close to nature choice! Suitable for slowing down and enjoying the world, whether it is a family, girlfriend, or solo.

Related Topics:
#Matsumoto City Tourism #Kamikoji Secret Place #Kawago Bridge Check-in #Matsumoto Nature Exploration #Japanese Mountain Scenery