How To Reach Kamikochi

Getting to Kamikochi, Matsumoto, Japan

Kamikochi is a popular mountain resort in the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano Prefecture, situated within the Chubu Sangaku National Park. It is known for its natural beauty but is somewhat remote and closed to private traffic, which makes the journey part of the adventure. Here's how to reach this tranquil destination:

From Tokyo:

• Take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo to Matsumoto Station. The Limited Express Azusa or Super Azusa trains can get you there in about 2.5 hours.
• Once at Matsumoto Station, transfer to the Matsumoto Railway (also known as the Alpico Kotsu) to Shin-Shimashima Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
• From Shin-Shimashima Station, board the bus bound for Kamikochi. The ride takes approximately 65 minutes.

From Nagoya:

• Take the JR Limited Express Wide View Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto Station, which takes about 2 hours.
• Follow the same steps from Matsumoto Station as outlined above.

From Matsumoto:

1. Direct Bus: There are direct buses from Matsumoto Bus Terminal to Kamikochi, taking approximately 90 minutes.
2. Train then Bus: Take the train from Matsumoto Station to Shin-Shimashima Station, and then the bus from there to Kamikochi.

Note:

Kamikochi is closed to private vehicles, so visitors need to use public transport or park their car at one of the car parks near Shin-Shimashima Station or Hirayu Onsen and then take a bus.

Seasonal Access: Kamikochi is typically open from mid-April to mid-November. During the winter, the area is closed due to heavy snowfall.

For those planning to visit, I'd recommend checking the latest transportation schedules and road conditions, as they can change seasonally or due to weather conditions.