Tour Itinerary

This outline describes our standard 8:00 AM departure, with Kamikochi in the morning and Matsumoto Castle in the afternoon. For guests choosing a later start, the order may be reversed.

1. Meet at Matsumoto Station (8:00 AM)

📍 Location: Outside the Alps (West) Exit – look for our light yellow Toyota van.
🚉 Getting here:
– From Nagano: Take the 6:31 AM JR Shinonoi Line (Local) from Nagano Station (arrives 7:53 AM at Matsumoto) – direct, no transfers

👋 Meet your guide: A calm start with a small group and a thoughtful local host

2. Scenic Drive to Kamikochi (8:00 – 9:30 AM)

🌄 Alpine approach: A 90-minute ride through valleys and forest roads of the Northern Alps
🪟 Views en route: Watch the landscape shift from city to mountain with commentary along the way

3. Kamikochi Nature Walk (9:30 – 12:00)

Walk Kamikochi’s most iconic trail, starting at Kappa Bridge and heading toward Taisho Pond.
The route follows the Azusa River, passes through Tashiro Marsh, and loops back via Tashiro Bridge—offering peaceful forest scenery, clear water views, and photo stops along the way.

Course Details:
Total walking time: Approx. 2.5 hours (outbound: 80 min / return: 70 min)
Distance: 7.9 km total (outbound: 4.2 km / return: 3.6 km)
Elevation change: ~10 meters
Trail: Mostly flat, well-maintained, suitable for most fitness levels

We take our time with breaks, guiding you through the best spots at a relaxed pace.

• Peaceful forest trails invite slow, mindful steps as sunlight filters through the trees.

• A quiet riverside pause—sometimes, the most memorable moments are the simplest.

• Just in time to witness nature in motion—an unexpected burst of wild beauty.

• A lush boardwalk leads you through Kamikochi’s vibrant spring greenery.

• At the foot of Mt. Yake, a moment of wonder shared with fellow travelers.

• Soaking in the crisp alpine air with panoramic views of Kamikochi’s iconic peaks.

• Moments of joy: capturing the perfect shot with a view to remember.

• Stillness and solitude. Just you, the breeze, and the reflections of the mountains.

• A single figure, a vast landscape—experiencing Kamikochi’s scale and serenity.

• Time to rest and refuel—stories and snacks shared on the river’s edge.

• A surprise encounter: Japanese macaques watch silently from the trees.

• Barefoot and free—the cool mountain stream invites you to pause and play.

• Walking alongside emerald waters, guided by snowcapped mountains and tranquil forest.

4. Free Time at Kappa Bridge (12:00 – 12:45 PM)

After the walk, enjoy some free time around Kappa Bridge to relax, take photos, or grab a light bite.
Many guests choose to enjoy their lunch during the walk—sitting by the river or in a quiet forest spot is one of the best ways to soak in Kamikochi’s beauty.
There are cafés and food stands near Kappa Bridge, but they often get crowded. We strongly recommend bringing your own lunch or snack to enjoy along the trail.

5. Depart Kamikochi (12:45 PM)

Return by van to Matsumoto.

6. Visit Matsumoto Castle (2:15 – 3:15 PM)

Enjoy a self-guided visit to one of Japan’s oldest original wooden castles.
Entry is included. Climb to the top for panoramic views and explore the historic grounds.

7. Tour Ends at Matsumoto Station (around 4:00 PM)

Ideal for travelers heading back to Tokyo, staying in Matsumoto, or continuing to the Kiso Valley or Takayama.
Suggested train: Azusa Limited Express 18:40 to Shinjuku (arrives 21:17)

⚠ Seasonal Notice: Kamikochi is a highland area – weather can change quickly. Please bring layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.

⏳ Tour Duration

Approx. 8 hours, including drive time, nature walk, and castle visit.

📍 Meeting Points & Start Times

🟡 Matsumoto Station (Alps Exit – West Side Rotary)

8:00 AM departure (Kamikochi first → Castle later)
Recommended for those staying in or near Matsumoto.

9:45 AM departure (Castle first → Kamikochi in the afternoon)
Ideal for travelers coming from Tokyo (via Shinjuku).

🛤 Suggested train from Shinjuku:
– JR Azusa Limited Express at 7:00 AM → arrives Matsumoto at 9:32 AM

🟠 Nagano Station (outside Beck’s Coffee by East Exit)

8:15 AM departure only (Castle first → Kamikochi in the afternoon)
Best for those staying in Nagano or arriving via Hokuriku Shinkansen.

🛤 Suggested train from Tokyo Station:
– Hokuriku Shinkansen at 6:16 AM → arrives Nagano at 7:37 AM

– Hokuriku Shinkansen at 6:28 AM → arrives Nagano at 8:03 AM

🚶 Physical Requirements

This tour includes a 2.5–3 hour nature walk (approx. 8 km) on well-maintained forest trails with minor elevation changes.

• Not recommended for guests with mobility challenges
• Wheelchairs and strollers are not suitable
• Please wear comfortable walking shoes – trails may be uneven or muddy

✅ What’s Included

• Private transportation from/to either Matsumoto or Nagano Station
• Entry to Kamikochi (incl. Taisho Pond & Myojin Pond trail access)
• Matsumoto Castle entry ticket (self-guided, fast-track entry)
• English-speaking local guide

❌ What’s Not Included

• Meals and drinks (lunch is self-pay in Kamikochi)
• Personal purchases or souvenirs
• Transportation to meeting point

🎒 What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes or trail sneakers
• Layered clothing (weather can change quickly)
• Light rain jacket or sun hat
• Water bottle and snacks (optional)
• A sense of adventure and appreciation for nature

⚠ Seasonal Notice

Kamikochi’s mountain climate brings cooler air and fast-changing conditions.
Prepare for sunshine, mist, or occasional rain—even during summer.