[Nature Walk] Take a deep breather trip to Kamikochi, Shinshu ~ A weekend stay where you can enjoy the soothing sounds and nature that will delight your senses ~
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and find healing in nature?
For those of you who are interested, this article will introduce the appeal of nature walks that satisfy all five senses and specific ways to enjoy yourself in Kamikochi, Shinshu.
This book covers everything from the physical and mental benefits of nature walks to recommended walking courses in Kamikochi that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced hikers alike, as well as access methods, accommodation, nearby activities, and gourmet information.
In addition, we will also explain the preparations and precautions to take to fully enjoy nature walks, taking into account safety measures and environmental protection.
After reading this article, you'll be able to plan a fulfilling nature walk in Kamikochi and have an unforgettable weekend stay.
The appeal of nature walks
Nature walks are a great way to escape from everyday life and rejuvenate your mind and body by being in nature.
You can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some peaceful time walking among the lush greenery and listening to the murmuring of the river.
Sharpening your five senses and feeling one with nature can help reduce daily stress and restore vitality.
Nature walks are also beneficial for improving your health.
Not only does it provide moderate exercise, but it also offers a variety of health benefits, such as the relaxing effect of forest bathing and the production of vitamin D through exposure to sunlight.
Nature walks are an activity that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or physical ability.
The benefits of nature walks
A nature walk can have a variety of benefits, including:
- Stress reduction effect : Spending time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases relaxation, and suppresses the secretion of stress hormones.
- Health-promoting effects : Moderate exercise can improve physical strength, promote blood circulation, and boost immunity.
The effects of phytoncides from forest bathing are also attracting attention.
- Mental calming effect : Exposure to the sights, sounds, and scents of nature calms the mind and leads to mental stability.
- Increased awareness of coexistence with nature : By realizing the beauty and importance of nature, awareness of environmental protection increases.
Recommended nature walks in Kamikochi
Kamikochi has a variety of walking courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced hikers alike.
Choose the course that's best for you based on your stamina and time.
<Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge Course (for beginners)>
This is the most popular course, connecting Taisho Pond, the gateway to Kamikochi, to its symbolic Kappa Bridge.
Taisho Pond was formed when the Azusa River was dammed up following the eruption of Mount Yakedake, and offers a spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range reflected on the water's surface.
The promenade is mostly flat and easy to walk on, so even those who are not confident in their physical strength or those with small children can stroll around safely.
Travel time and highlights
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (one way) Taisho Pond, Tashiro Pond, Tashiro Marshland, Kappa Bridge
<Myojin Pond to Tokusawa Course (Intermediate)>
This course stretches from Kappa Bridge to Myojin Pond and further to Tokusawa.
Myojin Pond is located in the sacred grounds of the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine and is enveloped in a mystical atmosphere.
The pond, which consists of Ichinoike and Ninoike, each shows a different look.
Tokusawa has a vast grassland and is a popular campsite.
You can enjoy a variety of scenery as you walk along the Azusa River.
Travel time and highlights
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes (Kappabashi Bridge to Myojin Pond: Approximately 1 hour one way, Myojin Pond to Tokusawa: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes one way) Myojin Pond, Mt. Myojin, Tokusawa, Azusa River
<Dakezawa Marsh Course (for advanced riders)>
This is a course with a relatively large difference in altitude, starting from Kappa Bridge and heading towards Takezawa Marsh.
The trail is steep and requires a certain level of physical fitness.
However, from near the summit you can get a close-up view of the Northern Alps, including the Hotaka mountain range and Mount Yari, and the spectacular view will help you blow away the fatigue of the climb.
Dakezawa Marsh is also a treasure trove of alpine plants, and you can enjoy a variety of flowers throughout the seasons.
Travel time and highlights
Approximately 6 hours (Kappabashi Bridge to Dakezawa Marsh: round trip) Dakezawa Marsh, Mt. Rokuhyaku, Mt. Maehotaka, Mt. Okuhotaka, Mt. Yari
Each trail is equipped with rest benches and toilets.
Additionally, the Kamikochi Visitor Center provides course maps and nature information, so it's a good idea to check in advance.
To fully enjoy nature, make a reasonable plan and enjoy your walk while taking safety into consideration.
Recommended clothing and items to bring for nature walks
To enjoy a comfortable and safe nature walk, the right clothing and belongings are important.
clothing
- Comfortable clothing : Long sleeves and long pants are recommended. Adjust your clothing according to the season and temperature.
-
Comfortable shoes : Choose shoes that you are comfortable walking in, such as trekking shoes or sneakers.
- Hat : Protect your head from the sun and rain.
- Rainwear : Choose something that is waterproof and breathable in case the weather changes suddenly.
What to bring
|
Categories |
item |
remarks |
|
hydration |
Water bottles and bottled drinks |
Drink plenty of water |
|
food |
Snacks, rice balls, and snacks |
Energy during breaks |
|
others |
Map, compass, first aid kit, towel, Garbage bags, insect repellent, sunscreen |
Safety and environmental protection |
The above items to bring are just examples, so please adjust them as appropriate depending on the walking route, season, and weather.
In particular, in mountainous areas, you will need things like headlamps and cell phone chargers.
Things to be aware of when walking in nature
Nature walks are a great way to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you enjoy them safely.
It is also important to take care to protect the natural environment.
Here we will explain in detail what to be careful of when walking in nature, from the perspective of safety measures and environmental protection.
Safety measures
In nature, unpredictable dangers can lurk.
To enjoy nature walks safely, please be aware of the following points.
Advance information gathering and planning
Before you set off, gather information about the weather, terrain, flora and fauna of your destination and choose an appropriate route.
Check the latest weather information and avoid going out for walks if the weather is bad.
Also, consider the difficulty of the course and the time required, and make a plan that suits your physical strength.
The right equipment
Comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to move in are essential. Be sure to bring rainwear and warm clothing to deal with changing weather.
Don't forget to protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Be sure to bring essentials such as a map, compass, headlamp, cell phone, and power bank.
Bear bells are also effective.
Avoiding independent activities
Travel in groups as much as possible and avoid traveling alone.
If you are traveling alone, it is important to let family and friends know where you are going and when you will return.
Measures to prevent getting lost
Be careful not to stray from hiking trails or walking paths, and check your current location on a map or GPS at forks in the road.
If you get lost, do not wander around aimlessly. Instead, calmly retrace your steps or wait in a safe place for rescue.
Dealing with Wild Animals
If you encounter a wild animal, do not approach or feed it, but quietly leave the area.
If you encounter a dangerous animal, especially a bear, keep your back to it and slowly back away.
Hydration and rest
Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks frequently to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.
During your break, enjoy the scenery around you and absorb the energy of nature.
Emergency response
In case of an emergency such as injury or illness, call for help immediately.
Call 110 or 119 on your mobile phone and provide accurate information about your current location and the situation.
environmental protection
In order to protect the natural environment, each and every one of us needs to be mindful of our actions.
Please be mindful of the following points and act with consideration for the environment.
Taking your trash home
Please be sure to take your trash home with you and avoid polluting the natural environment.
Make sure to take everything home with you, including biodegradable items.
No collecting plants
Please refrain from collecting plants and protect the natural ecosystem.
Capture the beautiful flowers and plants in photos to preserve your memories.
No interference with animals
Do not approach or feed wild animals; observe them in their natural state.
It is important to be careful not to disturb the animals' lives.
Use of fire is prohibited except in designated areas
Due to the risk of fire, please refrain from using open flames anywhere other than designated areas.
If you plan to have a bonfire or barbecue, be sure to obtain permission and take safety precautions.
Using the toilet
Please use the toilet in designated areas and be sure to take any toilet paper with you when you leave.
| item | Points to note |
| Advance preparation |
Gathering information on weather, topography, flora and fauna Choosing the right course Check the latest weather information |
| What to wear and what to bring |
Warm clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, map, compass, Headlamp, mobile phone, mobile battery, bear bell |
| action |
Avoid traveling with others or traveling alone |
| others |
Proper hydration and rest |
Follow these precautions to enjoy a safe and enjoyable nature walk.
It is important for each of us to be grateful for the blessings of nature and act responsibly in order to preserve them for future generations.
Activities you can enjoy in Kamikochi
In Kamikochi, you can enjoy a variety of activities in the midst of magnificent nature.
In addition to nature walks, you can also experience the charm of Kamikochi more deeply through experiences that stimulate the five senses, such as bird watching, nature photography, and stargazing.
Stargazing
Kamikochi, which is far from city lights, is also a great place for stargazing.
The starry sky that fills the night sky is truly a sight to behold. You can enjoy the Milky Way, shooting stars, and other starry skies that you can't see in the city.
You can enjoy different starry skies depending on the season, such as the Milky Way in summer and Orion in winter.
Be sure to dress warmly and head out to observe the starry sky.
Tips for stargazing
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We recommend visiting during a new moon, when the influence of moonlight is minimal.
-
Use flashlights sparingly, just enough to illuminate your feet
- A star chart or app is useful
Bird watching
Kamikochi is also known as a treasure trove of wild birds.
You can observe a wide variety of wild birds, including rock ptarmigans, blue-and-white flycatchers, and Narcissus flycatchers.
Early morning and evening are the best times for bird watching, as birds are most active in the area.
Bringing binoculars and an illustrated guide will make your visit even more enjoyable.
| season | Wild birds that can be observed |
| spring | Narcissus flycatcher, Blue-and-white flycatcher, Blue-and-white flycatcher |
| summer | Lesser cuckoo, cuckoo, and cuckoo |
| autumn | Mallard, Teal, Coal Tit |
| winter | Nuthatch, Varied Tit, Great Spotted Woodpecker |
Nature Photo
Kamikochi is filled with breathtakingly beautiful scenery, including the Hotaka mountain range, the Azusa River, and lush greenery.
Grab your camera and head out to find your own scenic spot.
The sunrise and sunset times are particularly good opportunities to take fantastic photos.
Be sure to prepare the necessary equipment, such as a tripod and lens filters.
Recommended photo spots
-
Taisho Pond : A beautiful mirror-like view of Mount Yakedake and the Hotaka mountain range reflected on the water surface
-
Kappa Bridge : A popular spot to take photos of the Kappa Bridge, a symbol of Kamikochi, and the Hotaka mountain range together
- Myojin Pond : You can take photos of the mysterious Myojin Pond and the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine.
Dining in Kamikochi
After enjoying a stroll through the magnificent nature, enjoy the gourmet food that is unique to Kamikochi.
There are many options to choose from, including dining on dishes made with local ingredients and relaxing at a cafe.
Local gourmet
In Kamikochi, you can enjoy Shinshu's local cuisine, as well as dishes made with locally harvested wild vegetables and river fish.
The grilled salted rock trout is particularly delicious, and the fragrant flavor of the fish slowly grilled over charcoal is something that can only be enjoyed in the midst of nature.
Accommodations around Kamikochi
There are various types of accommodations around Kamikochi.
You can choose one that suits your budget and travel style.
We have summarized the types and features of the most popular accommodations.
Hotel
Kamikochi has several hotels that offer comfortable stays.
Kamikochi Imperial Hotel is known as a long-established hotel with a rich history and tradition, and is known for its elegant atmosphere and high-quality service.
There are also many other options, such as resort hotels surrounded by nature.
The hotel also has a wide range of facilities, including a restaurant and a convenience store, making for a convenient stay.
Inn
If you want to experience traditional Japanese hospitality, we recommend staying at a ryokan.
At hot spring inns such as Hodakaso Yamaga no Yu, you can relax and enjoy the hot springs while looking out at the natural scenery of Kamikochi.
At a ryokan, you can experience Japanese culture by staying in a Japanese-style room and enjoying cuisine made with local ingredients.
mountain hut
Mountain huts are recommended for those who want to stay closer to nature or for those planning to go mountain climbing.
Kamikochi has many mountain huts, including Tokuzawaen and Yokoo Sanso.
Although mountain huts have simple facilities, they provide essential services for climbers.
Another attractive feature is that the accommodation is reasonably priced compared to other accommodations.
Reservations for mountain huts are required, so be sure to check the reservation status in advance.
When choosing accommodation, consider location, budget, and the purpose of your trip.
Reservations are difficult to get during peak season, so we recommend making your reservation early.
How to get to Kamikochi
Kamikochi has restrictions on private cars, so you can get there by public transportation or taxi, or by parking in a designated parking lot and taking a shuttle bus or taxi.
Here we will introduce in detail how to access the area from major cities.
Access from Tokyo
The most common way to get there from Tokyo is by train and bus.
Transportation: Take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express Azusa or Super Azusa to Matsumoto Station, then take a local bus from Matsumoto Bus Terminal to Kamikochi
Duration: Approximately 5 to 5.5 hours
Estimated fare: Approximately 8,000 to 9,000 yen. *Express fare and a boarding ticket are required from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station. At Matsumoto Station, transfer to the Alpico Kotsu bus bound for Kamikochi.
Access from Osaka
From Osaka, you can access the area by taking an overnight bus or a combination of train and bus.
Transportation Method 1: Take an overnight bus to Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Duration: Approximately 8-9 hours
Estimated price: Approximately 7,000 to 9,000 yen
Operational conditions change depending on the season, so please check in advance.
Transportation Method 2: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, then take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express Wide View Shinano to Matsumoto Station, then take a local bus from Matsumoto Bus Terminal to Kamikochi
Duration: Approximately 6 to 6.5 hours
Estimated fare: Approximately 13,000 to 15,000 yen *Shinkansen and limited express fares and tickets are required.
Access from Nagoya
From Nagoya, the most common way to get there is by train and bus.
Transportation: Take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express Wide View Shinano to Matsumoto Station, then take a local bus from Matsumoto Bus Terminal to Kamikochi
Duration: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours
Estimated fare: Approximately 7,000 to 8,000 yen *Express fare and boarding ticket required.
Access to Kamikochi varies depending on the season and traffic conditions.
Please check the official website for the latest information in advance and plan accordingly.
summary
In this article, we introduced the appeal of nature walks and nature walks in Kamikochi, Shinshu.
Nature walks not only have a positive effect on your physical and mental health, but they are also a valuable experience that allows you to experience the beauty of nature and stimulate your five senses.
Kamikochi has a variety of walking courses that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced hikers alike, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of majestic mountains and beautiful waterfronts.
We also provide information on how to get there and where to stay, so why not take advantage of your weekend or holiday to enjoy a walk in nature in Kamikochi and refresh your mind and body?
Also, for those who are busy every day and find it difficult to find time to be in nature.
When you play this piece, you will feel as if you are there, experiencing the sounds of the wind, the water, and the breath of life with all your senses.
Of course, it is also recommended for those who want to reminisce about their experiences in Kamikochi.
Travel memories are not just captured in photos and videos, but are also vividly brought back to life through all five senses.
Would you like to relive it anytime?
Staff recommendation! You can listen to it♪
Even if you can't go there, the rich nature is right there.
Through contact with nature, you will be able to make new discoveries and gain new inspiration.