Even though Kamikochi has become too popular and full of tourists these days, it is one of those places I keep coming back to, and if you’re even remotely interested in nature or hiking, it’s a must-visit. Open each year from April 17 to November 15, Kamikochi transforms beautifully throughout each season, and there’s genuinely no bad time to experience it. I’ve been here more than five times, and each visit feels new.

For those interested in a relaxed trip, you can just stroll around, spend a night in one of the lodges, and enjoy the surreal views of the mountains and crystal-clear rivers. The atmosphere alone is enough to recharge you. But if you’re up for a more active adventure, Kamikochi has incredible hiking trails that lead up to some of Japan’s iconic Northern Alps peaks.

You can take on popular routes like Mt. Yakedake, a mildly challenging hike with rewarding summit views, or for the more ambitious, head up to Mt. Hotaka or Mt. Yari. Just remember, Kamikochi is entirely vehicle-free beyond the gateway towns, so you’ll need to take a bus or taxi for access, which keeps the environment pristine and the experience peaceful. If you're planning to stay, I'd recommend booking early, especially in peak autumn foliage season, as accommodations fill up fast.

Access by Public Transportation:

From Tokyo:

1. Direct Highway Bus (Alpico and Nohi Bus):
For a direct route, Alpico and Nohi Bus offer highway bus services between Tokyo and Kamikochi, which takes about 5-6 hours. This is convenient as it bypasses transfers, and overnight bus options are available for those who want to sleep en route.

2. Train and Bus Combination:

• Via Matsumoto: Take the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto (about 2.5 hours). Then, switch to the Alpico Kamikochi Line at Matsumoto Station to Shin-Shimashima Station (30 minutes). From Shin-Shimashima, transfer to an Alpico bus to Kamikochi (about 1 hour).

• Via Nagano: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (1.5 hours). From Nagano, take the express bus from Nagano Station to Kamikochi, operated by Alpico.

From Osaka/Kyoto:

1. Direct Highway Bus (Alpico and Nohi Bus):
Alpico and Nohi Bus offer overnight and daytime highway bus services from Osaka and Kyoto directly to Kamikochi, taking approximately 8-9 hours.

2. Shinkansen and Bus Combination:
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto to Nagoya. At Nagoya, transfer to the Limited Express Shinano bound for Matsumoto (about 2 hours). From Matsumoto, follow the steps above by taking the Kamikochi Line train to Shin-Shimashima, then transferring to the Alpico bus.

Access by Car:

I almost always access Kamikochi by car. However, personal vehicles are not permitted within Kamikochi to protect the natural environment. Instead, park at designated parking areas in Hirayu Onsen or Sawando. From there, take a shuttle bus or taxi for the last leg of the journey into Kamikochi.

General Guide to Staying in Kamikochi

Kamikochi offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious mountain lodges, making it ideal for different travel styles. Here’s a quick rundown of options:

1. Hotels and Mountain Lodges: If you’re looking for comfort and ease, there are several lodges and ryokan within the park that offer amazing mountain views, onsen, and meals. Some popular options include the Kamikochi Imperial Hotel and Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel.

2. Mountain Huts: For a more rugged experience and if you plan to hike deeper into the mountains, consider staying in one of the mountain huts like Yokoo-sanso or Karasawa Hyutte. These are basic but offer the essential meals and bedding.

3. Camping: For nature lovers or budget travelers, the Konashidaira Camping Ground is a great option. Located close to the river, it has beautiful scenery, showers, and even a communal onsen nearby, making it an ideal base for adventuring around Kamikochi.

Reservations: During peak seasons (spring and autumn), reservations are highly recommended for hotels and huts as Kamikochi can be very popular.