Have you ever heard that winter in Kamikochi looks like a magical land of silver and snow? I have heard that too, and I have always dreamed of visiting it at least once. Despite the unfortunate weather during my visit in the cold of mid-winter, I would like to share just how special trekking in Kamikochi is through this blog!
In this article, I will introduce the allure of Kamikochi in the winter. You’ll find detailed information on trekking courses suitable for first-time visitors, preparation tips, and safety measures. By the end of this article, you’ll surely be planning your next adventure! Even beginner hikers can embark on this journey with confidence, so please read on to the end!
About Kamikochi
Kamikochi is a beautiful highland area located approximately 1,500 meters above sea level in the Northern Alps of Nagano Prefecture. It attracts countless hikers and tourists throughout the year. The breathtaking views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and Yake-dake from the famous Kappa Bridge are truly stunning. Especially in the fall, the vibrant autumn leaves and in spring, the fresh greenery provide a soothing experience for visitors. One of Kamikochi’s distinctive features is not only its rich natural environment but also the well-maintained walking trails, which offer various routes for beginners to intermediate hikers to enjoy. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, providing a relaxing environment where visitors can immerse themselves in nature. The tourist season from mid-April to mid-November offers comfortable weather, allowing visitors to enjoy different landscapes each season. Once you experience the charms of Kamikochi, you will undoubtedly be captivated by its serene beauty.
▼Kamikochi in Summer
Please feel free to use this as reference!
▼Kamikochi in autumn
Please feel free to use this as reference!
▼Kamikochi in Winter
Climbing Route Introduction
▼ Date of climb.
Middle of February
▼ Climbing level
★★☆☆☆
The mountain path is flat throughout, so even beginners can do it!
Of course, it’s important to be prepared with snowy mountain gear!
▼Climbing schedule and routes
Total time: 5 hours 26 minutes (rest time: 1 hour 0 minutes)
Distance: 13.4 km (ascent/descent: 352/320 m)
08:00 Nakanoyu bus stop
09:00 Taisho Pond
10:10 Kappa Bridge
10:30 Kamikochi Information Center
12:20 Taisho Pond Hotel
13:00 Nakanoyu bus stop
出典：YAMAP
・We parked at Sakamaki Onsen, but since the number of parking spots is limited, it’s recommended to arrive by 6 AM. Also, the road to the onsen is covered with snow, so winter tires are essential. Sakamaki Onsen: http://sakamaki.yumori.jp/
・Make sure to thoroughly check the round-trip distance, areas that require caution, and snow mountain gear.
Recommended Climbing Season
Kamikochi offers different charms throughout the year and is worth visiting in every season. Here are the characteristics of each season:
■ Spring (Mid-April to June)
Spring arrives in mid-April, and with the melting snow, many plants and animals begin to become active. The fresh greenery thrives, and particularly in May, you’ll find beautiful flowers like skunk cabbage and anemone blooming. During this time, the area is relatively less crowded, making it perfect for quietly enjoying nature.
■ Summer (July to September)
Summer is the ideal season for mountain climbing and trekking. The daytime temperatures rise, allowing for comfortable trekking. The area is well-equipped with hot springs and accommodations, and stargazing is also recommended. The summer scenery of Kamikochi is breathtaking, offering stunning views of the impressive Hotaka Mountain Range—truly a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
■ Autumn (October to Mid-November)
Autumn, the season of colorful leaves, is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Kamikochi. The larch trees turn golden, and the broadleaf trees display vibrant reds and yellows, creating a truly mesmerizing view. The weather is cool, making for comfortable trekking, though the shorter daylight hours require a planned itinerary.
■ Winter (Mid-November to Early April)
Kamikochi is closed during the winter season, but the tranquility and snowy landscapes still offer something unique and special for those who visit. Snowshoe trekking is popular due to the deep snow. Winter is particularly appealing to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
Each season in Kamikochi has its own beauty, so choose the season to visit that aligns with your interests.
Points of Interest
Taisho Pond: Take a photo with the mountains reflected on the frost-covered lake surface and you’re sure to get a lot of Instagram attention
Hotaka mountain range: A scenic spot where the majestic mountains emerge. The beauty of the snow-covered peaks will take your breath away. *Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the Hotaka mountain range due to the weather (cry)
Kappa Bridge: A symbolic spot of Kamikochi, where the clear air and tranquility of nature will soothe your soul.
Safety and Risk Management
■Risks and precautionsCareful preparation and planning are essential to ensure safety when climbing snowy mountains. First, you should always check the weather information and refrain from climbing if bad weather is expected. In addition, proper equipment is the key to safety, and cold weather clothing, crampons, ice axes, and other equipment are essential. By accompanying an experienced climber or a guide, you can calmly respond to any trouble that may occur. In addition, submitting a climbing notification and informing family and friends of your climbing plans are also important safety measures.
■Emergency responseSnowy mountains have their own unique risks. For example, avalanches, poor visibility, and hypothermia due to low temperatures. Risk management requires sufficient knowledge and skill acquisition before climbing. Considering the weather and snow conditions and choosing a route according to your experience also helps reduce risk. In addition, it is important to avoid unreasonable itineraries and take sufficient rest while acting in order to maintain your physical strength and be able to respond to emergencies.
登山体験談
Unfortunately, the weather was bad and I couldn’t see the Hotaka mountain range this time… (crying) But the mountain path to Kamikochi was very beautiful and I was able to enjoy a different view from Kamikochi in the summer. It was easier to walk than I thought, so I’d like to try again!
07:00 Sakamakionsen
There is parking available for more than 30 standard vehicles (5:00–21:00).
Since it is a hot spring facility, restrooms are available for your convenience.
Sakamakionsenwebsite: http://sakamaki.yumori.jp/
I parked at Sakamaki Onsen, but since the number of parking spaces is limited, I recommend arriving by 6:00 AM. Also, the road to the onsen is covered with snow, so winter tires are essential.
07:30 Depart for Nakanoyu Bus Stop
Walk along the roadway continuously.
The road is narrow, so please be careful of cars! You’ll be walking for about 30 minutes.
08:00 Nakanoyu Bus Stop.
During the summer season, this road is restricted to buses due to private vehicle regulations. However, in the winter season, it is completely closed, so only hikers walk through. You need to submit a climbing registration here, but it’s best to submit it in advance via YAMAP.
Since you’ll be walking through many tunnels, it’s best to walk without crampons.
It takes about one hour to walk to Taisho Pond.
50 minutes into the walk, we’ll take a restroom break here!
The stream is so beautiful—it makes the walk really enjoyable!
It takes about an hour to walk from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge. The path is flat, making it easy to walk.
10:10 Kappa Bridge
I’ve visited Kamikochi many times in the summer, but this is my first time in winter! On clear days, you can view the Hotaka Mountain Range from here, but the weather is bad today, so I couldn’t see the Hotaka Mountains… (crying)
In the summer, Kamikochi is bustling with people, but during the winter season, it is a tranquil, snow-covered world.
10:30 Lunchtime (Kamikochi Information Center)
Today, I had cup ramen! Unfortunately, my gas ran out halfway, so I couldn’t enjoy a hot bowl of ramen.
13:00 Descent to Nakanoyu Bus Stop I’ve safely returned! The weather was bad, but it was a very enjoyable trek!
Nearby hot spring information
Sakamaki Onsen Ryokan
A hidden hot spring located along the Azusa River gorge.The indoor bath was great, but the outdoor bath was particularly amazing. It truly felt like a “hidden gem”!
Indoor bath: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Outdoor bath: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entrance fee:
Adults: 600 yen
Children : 300 yen
Website: http://sakamaki.yumori.jp/
Recommended snowy mountains:
There are many other recommended snowy mountains, so please feel free to check them out here!
Mountaineering Preparation and Equipment
Before you begin climbing a mountain, it is important to select and prepare the proper equipment. Here is a checklist of essential items and how to choose climbing equipment such as climbing shoes and backpacks. We will also inform you about important but often forgotten items.
⛰ Clothing ⛰
Shoes
Climbing shoes
Climbing shoes with good foot support and non-slip soles are required. Proper size and fit are important for a comfortable climbing experience.
Climbing clothes
T-shirt, shorts (or long tights if you don't want to get hit by grass), outdoor jacket, heavy socks
Hat, spare T-shirt *Adjust according to the season.
Mountaineering backpack:.
You will need a backpack large enough to hold the necessary equipment, food and drink, and warm clothing. Be sure to pay attention to the comfort and adjustability of the backpack.
Protective equipment
Head and limb protection such as helmets, gloves, and sunglasses are important to ensure your safety while climbing.
Warm clothing
In mountainous areas, temperatures can change rapidly, so it is important to have warm clothing. A fleece, down jacket, windproof and waterproof shell jacket, etc. are necessary.
Trekking poles
Trekking poles are useful to support balance on slopes and unstable terrain.
Mountaineering map application "YAMAP
Download a map of the mountain you will be climbing with the mountaineering map application "YAMAP" in advance. You can check your location with GPS even when you are offline.
⛰ Recommended items⛰.
First aid kit
Headlamp
Drink (This is important! You will need a liter! You need at least 1 liter.
Food - Onigiri rice balls and waders to eat on the way
Snacks
Money (It's better to have cash since it's not electronic!)
Insect repellent (you don't have to bring any)
Towel
Sunscreen
Tissues, wet wipes
Charger
Folding umbrella or umbrella
