Kamikochi is often described as one of the most beautiful places in Japan. We’ve travelled around the country, from big, busy cities to small towns, and I can honestly say that Kamikochi is one of our favourite places.
Tucked away in the Japanese Alps, this remote alpine valley feels calm, untouched, and incredibly peaceful. Crystal-clear rivers, dense forests, and dramatic mountain peaks surround you at every turn.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know before visiting Kamikochi, from the best time to go and how to get there, to what to expect once you arrive, the best walks, where to stay, and a few practical tips to help you plan your trip with confidence.
If you prefer to see it all in motion, I’ve also filmed a full-day walk in Kamikochi, which you can watch alongside this guide.
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Is Kamikochi Worth Visiting?
Kamikochi might not be the easiest destination to get to, but it’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you enjoy nature, walking, and quieter places. If that sounds like you, Kamikochi should be on your list.
This isn’t a destination packed with attractions or things to tick off. Kamikochi is all about the experience: walking through an alpine valley, following crystal-clear rivers, and spending time in a landscape that feels genuinely protected and unspoilt.
That said, Kamikochi may not be for everyone. If you’re short on time, prefer cities, or are looking for nightlife or shopping, this probably won’t be a highlight of your trip.
Best Time to Visit Kamikochi
Kamikochi is only open to regular visitors for part of the year, usually from mid-April to mid-November. During winter, access is very limited and generally restricted to experienced hikers with proper winter gear, as heavy snow makes the area challenging and potentially dangerous.
Spring (mid-April to June) is a lovely time to visit if you enjoy fresh greenery, flowing rivers, and fewer crowds. Snow often still sits on the surrounding peaks, creating beautiful contrasts, and temperatures are comfortable for walking.
Summer (July to early September) is the most popular season. The weather is warmer, trails are fully accessible, and it’s ideal for both easy day walks and longer hikes. This is also when Kamikochi is busiest, especially in August.
Autumn (late September to October) is considered by many to be the best time to visit Kamikochi, and this is when we visited. The autumn colours are stunning, the light is perfect for photography, and it’s a great time for relaxed strolls along the river and through the forest. It’s a very photogenic season, but also a popular one, so planning ahead is essential.
No matter when you visit, the weather in the mountains can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to bring layers and be prepared for rain. Waterproof shoes and a lightweight rain jacket are especially useful here.
How to Get to Kamikochi
Kamikochi is a protected area, which means private cars are not allowed to enter the valley. This is one of the reasons it feels so peaceful and unspoilt. Traffic is kept out to protect the environment.
To get to Kamikochi, you’ll need to use public transport or a taxi from one of the nearby access points. The most common gateways are Matsumoto and Takayama, depending on where you’re coming from.
Getting to Kamikochi from Tokyo
From Tokyo, you have a couple of good options. One of the most common routes is taking the train to Matsumoto, then continuing by bus or taxi to Kamikochi.
Another option, and the one we used, is taking a direct bus, which is simple and convenient if you don’t want to change trains. It takes longer than the train, but it’s straightforward and stress-free. I’ve shared our bus journey in a separate video, so you can see exactly how it works and what to expect.
Getting to Kamikochi from Kyoto
If you’re travelling from Kyoto, many people head first to Takayama, then continue by bus to Kamikochi. This route works well if you’re already exploring central Japan or the Japanese Alps and want to combine Kamikochi with places like Takayama or Hirayu Onsen.
Arriving in Kamikochi
No matter which route you choose, you’ll arrive at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. From there, everything is within walking distance; the main trails, Kappa Bridge, and river walks all start almost immediately.
Where to Stay When Visiting Kamikochi
When planning a trip to Kamikochi, you have two main options: staying inside Kamikochi itself or staying nearby in Hirayu Onsen. Both work well, and the best choice really depends on how you want to experience the area.
Staying Inside Kamikochi
Staying inside Kamikochi means you’re right in the heart of the valley. This is ideal if you want to start your walks early, enjoy the area once the day trippers leave, or take photos in the early morning and late afternoon when the light is best.
There are a handful of hotels inside Kamikochi, ranging from classic alpine lodges to more modern options. Well-known places include Kamikochi Imperial Hotel, one of the most historic hotels in the valley, Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel, which offers a comfortable stay close to nature, and Gosenjaku Hotel Kamikochi, a popular choice thanks to its convenient location near the walking routes.
Accommodation inside Kamikochi is limited and books up quickly, especially in summer and autumn, so booking well in advance is essential.
Staying in Hirayu Onsen (Where We Stayed)
We stayed in Hirayu Onsen, a small town not far from Kamikochi and a very popular base for visiting the area. Hirayu Onsen is known for its hot springs, and most hotels here offer a traditional Japanese stay, often with indoor or outdoor onsen baths.
Staying here works really well if you like the idea of exploring Kamikochi during the day and then relaxing in a hot spring in the evening. It’s also a good option if you’re travelling from places like Takayama or Kyoto, as transport connections are straightforward.
In Hirayu Onsen, there are several traditional accommodations to choose from. We stayed at Hirayukan, and it was honestly one of the best places we stayed in Japan. It’s a traditional ryokan-style hotel with hot spring baths, and it offers both buffet dinner and breakfast, which made it a really comfortable and relaxing base after a day of exploring.
Another popular option in the area is Hirayunomori, which is well known for its hot springs and is conveniently located near the bus terminal, making it a practical choice for visiting Kamikochi.
Check availability at Hirayukan
Staying in Takayama (Day Trip to Kamikochi)
Another popular option is staying in Takayama and visiting Kamikochi as a day trip. Takayama is a lovely town with a well-preserved old town, great food, and a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to traditional ryokans.
Many travellers choose Takayama as their base and take a bus to Kamikochi for the day. This works well if you want to combine Kamikochi with sightseeing in the Japanese Alps, or if you prefer staying in a larger town with more facilities and restaurant options.
The downside is that you’ll be sharing Kamikochi with day trippers and won’t experience the valley early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s at its quietest. Still, for many people, Takayama is a very practical and enjoyable base.
If you decide to base yourself in Takayama, there’s a wide range of accommodation options. Two well-located and popular choices are Hotel Wood Takayama, a stylish hotel with a modern take on traditional design, and Hotel Amanek Hida, which is conveniently located near the station and works well if you’re planning to take day trips, including Kamikochi.
Camping in Kamikochi
If you prefer camping, there’s also a campsite in Kamikochi, located just a short walk from Kappa Bridge. You can stay in a tent or rent a cabin, which makes this a great option for travellers who want to stay close to nature while keeping costs lower.
As with hotels, camping spots can fill up during peak season, so planning ahead is still important.
Best Things to Do in Kamikochi
The main reason people come to Kamikochi is to spend time outdoors and enjoy the landscape. It’s not about rushing from one attraction to another. It’s about walking, slowing down, and taking in the surroundings.
Walk Along the Azusa River
One of the best things to do in Kamikochi is simply walking along the Azusa River. The water is incredibly clear, the views of the surrounding mountains are constant, and the flat paths make it accessible for most visitors. It’s perfect for an easy day walk, with plenty of spots where you’ll want to stop and take photos.
Visit Kappa Bridge
Kappa Bridge is Kamikochi’s most iconic landmark and one of the first places most people visit. It offers beautiful views of the river and the mountains, and is a great starting point for walks in either direction. It can get busy, especially in peak season, but it’s worth seeing.
Explore Myojin Pond
Myojin Pond is a little quieter than other parts of Kamikochi and feels more peaceful. It’s part of Hotaka Shrine and is considered a sacred place by locals. Many people come here not just for the scenery, but for the calm atmosphere. After the busier areas near Kappa Bridge, this spot feels like a quiet sanctuary.
Take Your Time and Notice the Details
One of the best things you can do in Kamikochi is slow down. Along the trails, you’ll notice small details like wild mushrooms, birds, reflections in the water, and changes in light through the forest. It’s a place where taking your time really pays off.
Photography and Scenic Stops
Kamikochi is incredibly photogenic. Whether it’s reflections on the river, autumn colours, or mist hanging over the mountains, there are endless photo opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon tend to be the best times for light and fewer crowds.
What to Pack for Kamikochi
Kamikochi is easy to explore, but it’s still a mountain environment, so packing the right things makes a big difference.
The weather can change quickly, even in summer, and you’ll be walking most of the time. You don’t need heavy hiking gear for the main valley walks, but a few essentials will make your visit much more comfortable.
A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is important, ideally waterproof, as paths can be wet, especially after rain. A lightweight rain jacket is also a must, no matter the season.
Layers work best here. Even on a sunny day, temperatures can drop, especially in the morning or late afternoon, so having something warm to throw on is useful.
A small daypack is handy for carrying water, snacks, and your camera. If you enjoy photography, you’ll definitely want your camera ready