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This tour offers a rare chance to visit Kamikochi, a stunning alpine valley in Nagano Prefecture, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Special Natural Monument of Japan. With private cars restricted and public access limited, Kamikochi can be difficult to reach on your own—making this guided trip by train and chartered bus a truly convenient way to explore its untouched beauty. Spend up to 5 hours surrounded by crystal-clear rivers, towering peaks, and the iconic Kappa Bridge, all in one peaceful and unforgettable day.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
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1
After meeting your tour conductor at Shinjuku, you’ll board the JR Limited Express Azusa departing between 7:00-7:30, traveling in reserved seats for a scenic ride through the Japanese countryside. No traffic, no transfers—just a relaxing journey toward one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural destinations.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Kamikochi
Upon arrival at Matsumoto, you’ll meet with the rest of your group and will transfer to a chartered bus that will take you deep into the Japanese Alps. Depending on the date, part of the route may include a short ride on a local bus due to seasonal sightseeing bus regulations. Your destination is a pristine highland valley located at an elevation of 1,500m, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Hotaka Mountain Range. Known for its crystal-clear rivers, untouched forests, and dramatic alpine views, Kamikochi is a protected area within Chubu Sangaku National Park and is closed to private vehicles—making this tour a rare and privileged way to visit.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
3Kamikochi
You’ll have 4 hours in total to explore Kamikochi at your own pace. Whether you choose to start your walk from Taisho Pond, the Imperial Hotel, or the Bus Terminal, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the Azusa River, the iconic Kappa Bridge, and the surrounding mountains. The recommended mini hiking route from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge is approximately 3.5 km, taking about 70 minutes on mostly flat terrain, making it perfect for casual walkers and nature lovers alike. In autumn, Kamikochi transforms into a golden wonderland, with fall foliage typically peaking from mid-September to late October. Please note that lunch is not included, so you’ll have the freedom to enjoy a meal at one of the local cafés or bring your own food to enjoy in nature. Important: Final train details, including exact meeting time and train details, will be confirmed 1 week prior to your tour date and sent via Viator chat. Please check your messages for updates.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
4
After an exciting hiking in Kamikochi, you’ll head back to Matsumoto Station, where depending on the option you chose, you will disband or board the Limited Express Azusa train back to Tokyo. You may choose to disembark at Hachioji or Tachikawa Station, or continue to Shinjuku Station, arriving between 21:00 and 21:30.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no arrangement
- There are no meals provided on this tour, so we recommend bringing your own packed lunch or enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants near Kappa Bridge.
- Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
- You are highly recommended to dress appropriately for visiting a mountain resort 1,500 meters above sea level. Walking/hiking shoes, waterproofs, and additional layers are recommended as the weather is volatile (usually 5-10 degrees Celsius lower than Matsumoto, the nearest town at the foot of the mountains.) Early Spring can see temperatures dip below 0 degrees Celsius. Even in the heights of summer, temperatures can go below 10 degrees and snow in May is not unheard of.
- A transfer onto a shuttle bus to enter Kamikochi may be required due to bus control regulations.
- Drop-off Locations in Kamikochi: You can choose between 3 drop-off points: 1.Taisho Pond 2.Imperial Hotel 3.Kamikochi Bus Terminal. Please note that the return pick-up location will only be at Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
- This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
- Delays or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to a refund.
- Delays due to transportation issues or non-participation will be subject to cancellation fees. The tour will depart at the time indicated.
- Please bring a small backpack, a hat, comfortable walking shoes (hiking or trekking shoes recommended), and clothes suitable for light activity. Rain gear is essential, as mountain weather can change quickly. A towel, water, personal medications, and a copy of your health insurance card are also recommended. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a garbage bag for your trash, a ground sheet, and light snacks will help you enjoy your hike comfortably and responsibly.
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be contacted 4 days prior to your travel date and offered an alternative or full refund.
- Please take all your trash with you. Kamikochi is a protected natural area, and maintaining its cleanliness is essential.
- Toilets in Kamikochi require a small contribution of 100 yen to help support the maintenance of the facilities and the preservation of the environment. Please bring coins with you.
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Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- For a 50% refund, you must cancel 2–6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 2 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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