Home > Tours > Nagano > Kamikochi 1-day Hiking Tour from Matsumoto

Kamikochi 1-day Hiking Tour from Matsumoto

Hike through Kamikochi, Nagano, with crystal clear rivers and breathtaking mountain scenery on this 1-day tour from Matsumoto.

Overview

Kamikochi offers stunning nature easily accessible from Tokyo. From the breathtaking views of the Hotaka mountain range—known as the ""roof of Japan""—to its mysterious ponds and vibrant seasonal flowers. As a designated national cultural asset, recognized for its special scenic beauty and natural significance, this is one of Japan’s most spectacular national parks. Trekking in Kamikochi is gentle with minimal elevation changes and plenty of rest stops, making it accessible for everyone, from children to seniors. Walking with a local guide adds depth to your experience, providing insight into the area's nature, traditions, and culture, far beyond what solo sightseeing can offer. We invite you to make the most of our guides' knowledge and fully enjoy Kamikochi’s charm. And for those coming in summer - even if the city is hot and humid, Kamikochi’s 1,500-meter elevation ensures a cooler, refreshing atmosphere.

The itinerary:

Private Car.jpg
Meet your guide and head to Kamikochi (8:30)
You can be picked up at Matsumoto Station or Takayama Station, where a guide holding a sign with your name will be waiting to welcome you. You’ll head to Kamikochi in a chartered vehicle, with one restroom stop scheduled at 9:30 along the way.

Get off at Kamikochi Bus Terminal (10:00)
From here you will start the hike!

Nakanose.jpgNakanose Park (10:30)
You will venture to Nakanose Park, where the peaceful riverside walk opens up to panoramic views of Kamikochi’s awe-inspiring mountain ranges.


IMG_5077.JPGWeston Relief (10:50)
Next trek to the Weston Relief, a historic monument honoring Walter Weston, the man who introduced mountaineering to Japan, and gain insight into the region’s alpine heritage.

Kappabashi.jpgKappa Bridge (11:20)
As you continue, the iconic Kappa Bridge awaits, offering spectacular views of the crystal-clear Azusa River and the dramatic Hotaka mountains beyond.

Dakesawa Marsh.jpegDakesawa Marsh (11:40)
A short walk brings you to the serene Dakesawa Marsh, a lush green haven reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

mame3.jpgLunch in the forest (12:00-12:30)
The tour includes lunch, which you will eat picnic style in the fresh mountain air. Enjoy local dish, Usuyaki, a Japanese-style pancake with full of ingredients such as soaked soybeans and butterbur miso.

Myojin pond.jpegMyojin Pond (13:00)
This sacred pond, nestled among towering trees, invites quiet reflection as you take in its calm, mirror-like waters.

Souvenir store (14:15)
You can buy local products from Kamikochi if you want to do some shopping.

⑩ Finish tour (14:30)
From here you will drive to the drop-off point.

⑪ Get dropped off (16:00)
You can be dropped off at Matsumoto Station or Takayama Station.

Information about the hike:
Walking distance:10.3km
Gained elevation: 30m (1500m~1530m)

Highlights

Enjoy a tranquil riverside walk surrounded by breathtaking views of Kamikochi’s iconic mountain scenery.
Visit the historic monument honoring Walter Weston, the man who introduced mountaineering to Japan, and reflect on his legacy.
Cross the famous Kappa Bridge, offering postcard-perfect views of the Hotaka mountain range and the crystal-clear Azusa River.
Explore a peaceful marshland, where lush greenery and mountain reflections create a serene natural setting.
Discover the mystical beauty of Myojin Pond, a sacred site surrounded by towering trees and calm, mirror-like waters.

Note

・This tour operates from the fourth Monday of April to the second Sunday of November.
・You can be dropped off at Matsumoto or Takayama.
・The schedule may vary slightly so please inform us if you have plans afterwards (eg. You need to be on time for a certain train)
・Participants must be aged 4 years or above to participate.
・If your clothing or items are insufficient, for safety reasons, we may need to decline your participation.
・We reserve the right to cancel the tour if weather conditions necessitate this.
・You may not participate in the tour if your physical condition does not allow moderate hiking or you are intoxicated.

★recommended items for the tour:
・Comfortable Clothing: Wear attire suitable for mountain walking.
・Beverages: Stay hydrated during your adventure.
・Snacks: Pack some energy-boosting snacks.
・Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun.
・Hat (with a brim): Shield yourself from direct sunlight.

  Price ¥80,000

¥80,000 is for a group of 1-4 people.
An extra ¥10,000 will be charged for each additional person.

  Duration 7.5 hours
  Hours of availability

8:30 AM to 4:00 PM

  Inclusions

・English speaking driver guide
・Outdoor lunch (Usuyaki and drip coffee)
Usuyaki is a Matsumoto local speciality, savoury pancakes which use up leftovers such as beans, vegetables or rice. The leftovers are fried with eggs or flour to make a batter. *Please inform us in advance if you cannot eat this.
・Pick-up and drop-off by chartered car (Matsumoto Station or Takayama Station *Additional ¥5,000 each way if you will be picked up from or dropped off at Takayama Station)
・Driver
・Parking
・Rental equipment (rain wear)
・Accident insurance fee
・Data of photos taken during the tour

  Exclusions

・Food and drink

  Participants 1-12

Meeting Point

Matsumoto station(at the ticket gate)or a hotel in Matsumoto city
Takayama Station is also OK

Write a Review

  Name
  Country
  Star
  Title
  Review
  Tour photo