Kamikochi Alpine Valley
A pristine alpine valley at 1,500 metres, accessible only by bus or on foot (private vehicles banned since 1975), with the Azusa River winding through birch and fir forests beneath the jagged Hotaka range. The clear blue-green water of Taisho Pond reflects the volcanic Yake-dake peak. One of Japan's great wilderness walks.
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Arrive on the first morning bus to experience Kamikochi in quiet — by 10am the valley fills. The Kappa Bridge walk to Myojin Pond (90 min round-trip) is the essential route. The valley closes entirely in winter; early November brings the best autumn foliage. Book accommodation inside the valley for a completely different experience after day-trippers leave.
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