2025 Matsumoto Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

Matsumoto Castle, the oldest castle in Japan, is one of five castles designated as national treasures. Built in 1592, it has an admission fee of 700 yen per person. 💵 Open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). The castle itself is unique because it was constructed entirely of wood without a single nail. 🏯 The castle's central keep was once used as a lookout tower. Inside, the castle has steep steps and low ceilings. Samurai armor from the Sengoku period, muskets, and weapons used in battle are on display. The top floor offers views of the mountains. The Japanese Alps 📌 Matsumoto Castle 🏯 ⏰ Open daily 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM) 🚈 Access: 15-minute walk from Matsumoto Station #AdventureTrip #JapanReview #MatsumotoReview #VisitMatsumoto

#adventuremoments The castle was built between 1593 and 1594. It is the oldest remaining five-story six-story keep in Japan and is also designated as a national treasure. The contrast between black and white makes it look cool and dignified, and is loved by many people as a symbol of Nagano Prefecture. A beautiful black and white castle reflected in the mountains of the Northern Alps.

🗓️Itinerary Management: Day 1: Depart Osaka at 9:00 PM for Kamikochi 5:00 AM Arrive at Taisho Pond and explore Kamikochi🪿 9:30 AM Kamikochi to Matsumoto Station🚌 12:30 PM Buy souvenirs at Tsuruya, visit a cafe, and head to Matsumoto Castle🏯 6:00 PM Check into hotel in Hakuba Day 2: 6:30 AM Take the Happo Alpine Line to Happoike Sanso🏔️ 8:30 AM Descend and have breakfast at the hotel♡ 10:45 AM Long-awaited paragliding experience 12:00 PM A must-visit Starbucks in Hakuba! 💞Reason for Recommended: Nature is simply soothing🪿 Maybe because I live in the city, I tend to travel to places with amazing nature🥹 I think there are a lot of people like me🫧 Nagano is a bit difficult to get to from Osaka, but I highly recommend it!! #Japan Travel Guide #Domestic Travel #Nagano Travel

#AdventureTrip Take a relaxing stroll along Nakamachi Dori 🪴 in Matsumoto City. If you're looking for an old street with a traditional Japanese atmosphere, blended with artistic influences and a slow-paced local lifestyle, "Nakamachi Dori" in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, is a must-visit. 🍃 📍 Overall Atmosphere This old street, once a commercial district during the Edo period, is lined with traditional houses in the beautiful contrasting black and white kura-zukuri style (storehouses converted into shops). It's a delightful place to stroll and take photos. Perfect for those who love vintage streets. 🧺 Local Shops There are chic cafes, handmade ceramic shops, souvenir shops, woodwork, and even local sake shops where you can sample some rare traditional crafts. We recommend stopping by a local sweet shop or sipping a hot coffee and watching people go by. It's a truly relaxing Japanese experience. 🍵 🎨 For art lovers, the area also features small galleries and craft shops from local artisans. Lovers of handmade items will definitely love this place, whether it's trinkets, ceramic jewelry, or home decor. 🕊️ The best thing about this place is its tranquility. Despite being a tourist attraction, the atmosphere remains quiet and friendly, uncrowded, perfect for those looking to "rest their minds" during their travels. 📍Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan #TravelJapan #Matsumoto #Japan #Matsumoto

Let me tell you, it's true. Anyone who likes nature in Japan should visit Kamikochi at least once before they die. The view in each season is very beautiful. It can be called heaven on earth. 🏞️ If you have read this far and want to go, I have gathered 5 things you should know before visiting Kamikochi. This post is the end. If you have any questions, don't keep them to yourself. Come and talk to us. ✴️ Can I drive into Kamikochi? Kamikochi is a strict nature reserve. Private cars are not allowed to drive into the area. We must use only authorized buses or taxis. Therefore, we should plan our travel well in advance! ✴️ Can I visit Kamikochi all year round? Kamikochi is open from late April to mid-November. The most popular period is spring and autumn. In the snow, the park is closed. But if you want to come, you may have to come with a tour or hire your own guide. ✴️ Can beginners go hiking in Kamikochi? Kamikochi has many levels of hiking trails, from easy trails suitable for families to challenging trails for experienced hikers. Don't forget to bring comfortable hiking shoes and clothes, and bring water and snacks. ✴️ If you're short on time, what are the highlights you can't miss? Kappa Bridge, a popular photo spot where you can see the stunning view of Mt. Hotaka, as well as the Azusa River, whose water is so clear that you can see the ground below. There are restaurants and restrooms here. If you're short on time, this is the only place we recommend. ✴️ Can I stay overnight in Kamikochi? Kamikochi has accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to campsites, with prices ranging from ten thousand yen to 60,000 yen. If you want to stay on a budget, you can choose to camp at Konashi-daira Campsite. #JapanReview #TravelJapan #TravelTalk #Kamikochi #Kamikochi

From Urban Charm to Mountain Splendor, A Summer Journey Full of Warmth and Scenery This journey begins in Nagoya, the gateway to the Chubu region, and connects several of my favorite towns and mountain landscapes in Hokuriku. From urban rhythms and old-town charm to lingering snow in the mountains and natural healing, this 7-day, 6-night itinerary is relaxed and unhurried, perfect for first-time visitors to the Hokuriku area. Day 1 | Arrival in Nagoya: Urban Warm-Up 📍 Itinerary: Nagoya Castle, Chubu Electric Power Tower, Sakae District 🍽 Must-Try: One of Nagoya's specialties, "Hitsumabushi" (grilled eel rice) The journey starts in bustling Nagoya. Spend the afternoon exploring Nagoya Castle and the Sakae District, and enjoy a dinner of grilled eel rice at a famous local restaurant. The thick, aromatic grilled eel paired with fragrant rice is truly a treat. Day 2 | Takayama: Strolling the Old Streets and Savoring Hida Beef 📍 Transportation: Take the "Hida" Limited Express directly to Takayama 📍 Itinerary: Miyagawa Morning Market, Takayama Old Town, Hida Beef Sushi The quaint "Little Kyoto" of Takayama retains its charm even in light rain. Stroll through the old streets, savor miso and Hida beef sushi, and bring back some delightful souvenirs to your accommodation. Day 3 | Shirakawa-go: A Fairytale World Amidst Greenery 📍 Transportation: Take a bus from Takayama directly to Shirakawa-go 📍 Itinerary: UNESCO World Heritage Gassho-style Village Visiting Shirakawa-go in summer, you'll find lush greenery and lingering snow on distant mountains. Strolling under the thatched roofs while enjoying ice cream feels like stepping into a serene picture book. Day 4 | Tateyama Kurobe: June's Snow Wall Spectacle 📍 Transportation: Transfer from Takayama to Tateyama Station, then take the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route 📍 Itinerary: Murodo Snow Wall, Daikanbo Even in June, you can still witness the tail end of the magnificent snow walls. The journey transitions from greenery to snow through cable cars and tunnel buses, as if crossing seasonal boundaries. Day 5 | Toyama: A Quiet City Tour + Travel Day 📍 Transportation: Take the tram in Toyama City 📍 Itinerary: Strolling Toyama City, street-side cafes, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto Discover the rhythm of life in Toyama by exploring its streets and enjoying a light meal at a local bakery. In the afternoon, board the Shinkansen to Kyoto to begin the second half of the journey. Day 6 | Kyoto: Half-Day Leisurely Exploration 📍 Transportation: Kyoto Station → Ramen Alley → Kinkaku-ji (via train + bus) 📍 Itinerary: Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto Station's architectural beauty Have lunch at Kyoto Station's Ramen Alley, then head to the shimmering Kinkaku-ji. Bask in the golden glow of the summer afternoon and quietly admire the elegance of the ancient capital. Day 7 | Return to Nagoya: Wrapping Up the Journey 📍 Transportation: Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto back to Nagoya, then prepare to fly back home Board the familiar Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya, concluding this journey that traversed cities and mountains. The trip ends with a photo album full of cherished memories. 🔖 Tips: • Summer temperatures in Hokuriku can vary greatly between morning and evening, so remember to bring a light jacket. • Consider purchasing the "Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass," which covers JR trains and some buses—it's very cost-effective. • Check the weather in advance for Shirakawa-go and Tateyama Kurobe to ensure smoother itinerary planning.

Kamikochi Travel Guide Basic Information - Location: Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. A highland valley in the Northern Alps at approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. - Opening Period: Mid-April to mid-November (expected until November 3, 2025). Closed during winter. Best Seasons - Summer (June-August): Perfect summer retreat with average temperatures of 20-25°C, ideal for hiking. - Autumn (September-October): Fall foliage season transforms the mountains into a picturesque landscape. Key Attractions 1. Kappa Bridge: Iconic landmark offering views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and Azusa River, surrounded by souvenir shops and restaurants. 2. Taisho Pond: A dammed lake formed by volcanic eruption, famous for its morning mist, starry skies, and breathtaking reflections of snow-capped mountains. 3. Tashiro Pond: A mirror-clear wetland pond that changes colors with the seasons. 4. Myojin Pond: A mystical forest lake perfect for quiet walks, with access to Hotaka Shrine's inner sanctuary. Hiking Trails - Easy Routes (1-2 hours): - Taisho Pond → Kappa Bridge: Follow the Azusa River with Hotaka Mountain views (~1h10m). - Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond: Round trip (~2h) through Takezawa Marsh, recommended for moderately fit hikers. Transportation - From Tokyo: - Direct bus: ~5-6 hours from Shinjuku Station. - Train + bus: JR to Matsumoto Station → Matsumoto Electric Railway to Shin-Shimashima Station → ~1h bus ride. - From Nagano Station: ~2h via "Sōshinshū-go" express bus. Accommodation - In Kamikochi: e.g., Kamikochi Lemeista Hotel (onsen available, advance booking required). - Nearby hot spring towns: Try milky-white baths at Shirahone Onsen Konashi no Yu Sasaya. Important Notes 1. Transport: Private vehicles prohibited; mandatory shuttle buses require reservations. 2. Environment: Carry out all trash (no bins); wildlife feeding prohibited. 3. Safety: Carry bear bells; trails get slippery (caution in rain). 4. Cash: Limited ATMs; bring sufficient cash (some toilets require ¥100 coins). 5. Gear: Non-slip shoes, rain gear, and layered clothing (significant temperature swings). Food Recommendations - Kamikochi Shokudo: Nagano-style breakfast sets with signature "Kappa-yaki" dessert. - Green Pot: Famous for "sanzoku-yaki" grilled meat sets and pork cutlet curry. - Nakanoyu Soba: Handmade buckwheat noodles paired with onsen visits. Pro Tip: Visit at dawn/dusk for crowd-free scenery; check official websites for real-time bus schedules and weather updates.

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck 8 Locations to Check in at "Matsumoto" #Matsumoto 🇯🇵 A small town in "Nagano" province #Nagano Matsumoto is a city that is considered the starting point for traveling to popular tourist attractions in Japan, especially natural attractions such as the Japan Alps, Kamikochi, Hakuba, etc. But in the city of Matsumoto itself, there are many interesting tourist spots. Today, we will take everyone to walk and take pictures in Matsumoto. 📍Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto Castle) or another name is "Crow Castle" because the castle walls are black. The castle is built of wood and does not use a single nail. From the outside, it looks like there are 5 floors, but inside there are a total of 6 floors. Matsumoto Castle has been designated as a "National Treasure of Japan". The outside area is a public park. We came in the evening, the atmosphere was very good. For those who want to visit inside Matsumoto Castle, there is an entrance fee of 💵 700 yen. ⏰8:30-17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) 📍Yohashira Shrine Built in the Meiji period to honor the four Shinto gods. This shrine is located on Nawate Street or Frog Street and along the Metoba River. It is an old shrine in Matsumoto. The atmosphere is very quiet and shady. ⏰Open 24 hours. 📍Nawate Street or "Frog Street" is an ancient street lined with shops, restaurants and souvenir shops. It is an important tourist street in Matsumoto. This street is full of stories of frogs. The Japanese believe that "frogs" are a symbol that will bring good luck and money. 📍Nakamachi Street is a small street where houses are painted white with old-style roofs. This is a classic perfection. These buildings used to be warehouses and were transformed into shops and restaurants as they are today. 📍Metoba River A small river that runs through the center of Matsumoto City. The water is very clear and clean. In some places, there is a path for walking down to sit by the water. 📍Koen dori This street is near the Bus Terminal. Both sides of the road are full of shops and restaurants. It is another street that we think is very cute. It is not far from our accommodation. 📍Mensho Sakura, a famous miso soup ramen shop in Matsumoto City. The soup is rich and fragrant with miso. The noodles are chewy and soft. The bowl is big and the price is not expensive. The ramen menu starts at 980 yen. I recommend you try it. 📍AMIYA GRILLED BURGER PATTY A small hamburg shop in the style of a Japanese restaurant. The food menu here is sold as a set. The hamburger is grilled to perfection. There are many ways to eat it. You can eat it plain without dipping it to get the full flavor of the hamburger. If you want to add more richness, try dipping it in the shop's fresh egg. Or eat with the dipping sauce and side dishes that the shop provides. There are 6 types in total, each with a different taste. The staff at this shop are very good. All of these places are within walking distance and are not far from JR Matsumoto. #EatTravelWithJee #kintiewkubjee #TravelJapan #MatsumotoTravel #Matsumoto

That morning, the temperature was around 10 degrees Celsius. The wind was so strong that the leaves were flying. Just opening the door felt like being unexpectedly embraced by nature. The sweater became my best friend that day. Even though it had been raining non-stop since morning, I felt excited in a way that I couldn't explain. I took the bus from the city to Kamikochi. Amidst the view of mountains alternating with green trees, the mist floated slowly all around. Everything looked soft like a painting. Even though the air was very cold, it was strangely pleasant. When I arrived, the point that I felt that I had come on the right day was... there were almost no people! The nature trails that were usually crowded with tourists were empty, so I could walk and take pictures from every angle without having to wait or rush. No one was blocking my way. The corner of the bridge, the Capell, or the view of the Azusa River were so beautiful that I didn't want to take just one picture. Even though the wind was so strong that sometimes I had to stand and hug myself, there were small shops along the way where I could stop and rest. There were dessert shops, fragrant wooden cafes, and cute souvenir shops. When I entered the shops, I felt as warm as if I had entered a corner of a Japanese movie. The silence, the cold, and the light rain made the nature around me clearer. The sound of the water, the sound of the leaves, my own breath. It was like I was really spending time talking to nature without any disturbances. Sometimes… coming on a day when the weather is not good can give us a more special experience than a clear day. #Rainy season travel destinations

Every May, the Agata no Mori Park in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, hosts the "Craft Fair Matsumoto." This event gathers around 300 craft artists from across Japan, showcasing a wide variety of works including woodworking, pottery, textiles, metalwork, glass, and leather creations. 🌿 Highlights of the Event: ✔️ Outdoor booths spread across the lawn, offering a liberating and open atmosphere ✔️ Opportunities to talk directly with artists and learn about the stories and craftsmanship behind their works ✔️ Discover unique, one-of-a-kind items like pottery and accessories 💫 ✔️ A variety of food booths featuring local Matsumoto delicacies 🍞☕ 📍 Location: Agata no Mori Park (approximately a 15-minute walk from Matsumoto Station) 🗓️ Held annually on a weekend in late May (scheduled for May 24-25 in 2025) ※ Free admission, rain or shine ☂️ 🌼 Stroll through the forested park, experiencing the warmth of handcrafted art. This event offers a special touch to your everyday life, making it a uniquely Matsumoto-style artistic outing. — 📌 Recommended for: ✔︎ Fans of crafts, folk art, and handmade goods ✔︎ Those who enjoy meeting and connecting with artists ✔︎ Anyone looking to find a personal favorite, one-of-a-kind item ✔︎ Travelers seeking a more local experience in Shinshu (Nagano)

Looking for a great destination during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday? Head to Japan's Hokuriku region! Today's sole highlight: a hiking trip to Kamikochi, a place known as the "Home of the Gods." With the majestic Central Alps as its backdrop, it truly feels like stepping into Europe. ✓ How to get to Kamikochi? It's recommended to stay overnight in Takayama. The next morning, take the earliest bus from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center. Tickets can be purchased at the machines on-site. The route is Takayama - Hirayu Onsen (transfer) - Kamikochi, with a round-trip ticket costing ¥5,800. ✓ Suggested Itinerary (5 hours 40 minutes): - Takayama to Hirayu Onsen: About 1-hour bus ride - Hirayu Onsen to Taisho Pond: 15-minute bus ride - Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge: About 1-hour walk - Kappa Bridge to Myojin Pond: About 1-hour walk - Myojin Pond to Kamikochi Bus Terminal: About 1-hour walk - Kamikochi to Hirayu Onsen: About 25-minute bus ride - Hirayu Onsen to Takayama: About 1-hour bus ride The scenery along the way is absolutely stunning, making you feel like you're in Europe! You'll find yourself stopping frequently to take photos. By the return trip, your legs might be sore, and you'll be less inclined to snap pictures. In total, you'll likely take between 500 to 1,000 photos! Start early in the morning to avoid the afternoon's unpredictable mountain weather. Kamikochi with lingering snow is dreamlike; if you visit in autumn, the golden-red foliage will surely captivate you with its charm. Today, I was very lucky. The morning in Kamikochi was slightly overcast with occasional sunshine, making the weather incredibly pleasant. Around 1 PM, as I was leaving, it started to drizzle and turn chilly—what great timing! #SoloBirthdayTripJapan29Days #Kamikochi #TaishoPond #KappaBridge #MyojinPond

Nagoya - Gero Onsen - Takayama - Shirakawa-go - Tateyama Kurobe Day 1: It takes about 40 minutes to travel from Nagoya Airport to the city center, costing around ¥1000. Most restaurants close at 10 PM, while izakayas usually stay open until around midnight. On weekdays, closing times might be even later. Day 2: Purchased the Hida 3-Day Pass from JR, which includes round-trip bus tickets to Shirakawa-go (~¥12000). Visited Gero Onsen. The town was larger than expected, with shops, shrines, and everything you need. Explored Gero Gassho Village, which is relatively small with limited photo spots, but the mountain slide was very fun. Note that most restaurants are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Day 3: Visited Takayama and Shirakawa-go. The bus pass needs to be exchanged in person, and staff will explain the bus schedules in detail. There were quite a lot of visitors, but about 10-20% of the shops were closed. Around 3-4 hours is sufficient to explore. Returned to Takayama and enjoyed Hida beef sukiyaki. Day 4: Spent the day exploring Takayama City, which has a nostalgic atmosphere. Strolled through the old streets and then returned to Nagoya. Day 5: Had Hida beef barbecue, visited Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon, and Osu Shopping Street. Day 6: Joined a 2-day, 1-night local tour to Kamikochi and Tateyama Kurobe. Kamikochi is stunning with its clear mountains, majestic snowy peaks, and picturesque scenery that is truly refreshing. Day 7: Explored Tateyama Kurobe using six different modes of transportation, which took about 8 hours including sightseeing. Unfortunately, the weather was bad with strong winds and heavy rain, and the temperature dropped sharply, making it hard to enjoy photo-taking or the experience. Day 8: Visited Chubu Electric Power Museum, explored the underground shopping streets, and then headed back home.

Kamikochi, a place that represents the beauty of the Japanese Alps!! 🏔️✨ The name Kamikochi is said to come from "Kamikouchi = the place where gods live", but it's a wonderful place where you can see truly mystical scenery!! I've been there a few times since I was little, but when I go back as an adult, I'm once again moved by the beauty of this nature🥺 🌟Recommended🌟 ・If you're lucky, you can see wild Japanese macaques on the way from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge, so I recommend walking there! ・The weather in the mountains is changeable, so be sure to check the weather forecast before going! I really recommend going to Kamikochi on a sunny day ⚠️There are restrictions on private cars in Kamikochi, so I recommend parking your car at [Nagano Prefecture side] ▶️Sawando Parking Lot [Gifu side] ▶️Akanda Parking Lot 🚗 I went from the Gifu side (Takayama City)^^ #EnjoyJapan #AsiaTravel #Tourism #DomesticTravel #Kamikochi #NaganoPrefecture #Nature #NaturalArea #StressRelief

📍 With limited time, we took a bus from Takayama and stayed overnight in Matsumoto, planning to visit Kamikochi for half a day the next morning. Upon arriving in Matsumoto in the evening, we headed straight to our hotel. We stayed at Hotel Iidaya, conveniently located right in front of the train station, making it easy to travel. The hotel offers free luggage storage, but the rooms are quite old and very small. The room only had a heater, no air conditioning, so we had to sleep with the window open to keep it cool 😅😅😅. It was quite an experience, probably because the weather here is cool year-round. 🚩 We booked tickets at the ALPICO building. The one-way ticket cost 3,000 yen, and we had to buy an additional train ticket at the station for 710 yen. The return trip totaled 3,710 yen, including both bus and train fares. From Matsumoto Station, take the train from platform 7 and transfer to a bus at Shin-Shimashima Station to reach Kamikochi. 🏖️ For those with limited time like us, we recommend stopping at KAPPA BRIDGE directly. 🚇 If you stop at TAISHO POND, it’s quite a long walk. For those with more time, walking is nice, but during our visit, there was still snow, making the walk challenging and slippery. 📷 The photo spot at KAPPA BRIDGE is the highlight. 🍜 At Kamikochi, try the apple pie and coffee. In Matsumoto, we recommend the hamburger restaurant AMIYA, which offers free rice and eggs. It’s perfect for those who eat a lot of rice. This restaurant is highly recommended, and when we visited, 100% of the customers were Thai 🤣🤣. 🏠 If you can book accommodation within the park, it’s ideal. Unfortunately, we couldn’t book because our Kamikochi trip was planned last minute. Reservations need to be made one month in advance and can be quite difficult. 💡 Be cautious of bears in Kamikochi.

#Share Kamikochi travel plan 🏕️🍂🏔️ Open for travel from April 17 - November 15 . Kamikochi is located in the northern part of the Japan Alps in Nagano Prefecture. Anyone who is going this year, hurry up and make a plan. This place is beautiful at all times. It is truly beautiful in every season. Last year, we went twice, during Summer and Autumn. Every time was stunningly beautiful. It is not an exaggeration. You can go here as a one-day trip or stay overnight. There are fewer people in the morning and evening. The atmosphere is very good. . During Autumn, we stayed inside the park. We booked the Kamikochi Alpen Hotel for about 17,000 per night for 4 people, including breakfast and dinner. There is also a communal onsen for soaking. The hotel is not far from Kappa Bashi. It is only a 5-minute walk. If you have time, I recommend staying here for a night. . Travel: We drove and parked at Sawando Parking Lot 3 and took a taxi up for 5,200 yen. If there are 4 of us, we can take a taxi. Or you can take a bus up. It is also convenient. **You can travel from Nagoya, Tokyo and Osaka. But if you want the most convenient, I recommend Nagoya. . #Kamikochi #Kamikochi #TravelJapan

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Kamikochi is located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the most beautiful mountain scenic spots in Japan. It is about 1,500 meters above sea level and is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. There is a Kappa Bridge in this area which is one of the famous attractions in Kamikochi. The bridge is named after the Japanese mythological creature "Kappa". The river under the bridge is the Azusa River. There is a gravel trail on each side, which is a good choice for many tourists and Japanese people to hike. The river trail has towering trees, beautiful scenery, and fresh air, so you won't feel tired walking on it. In addition, you can hear the sound of bells everywhere. It is said that there are bears in the mountains and forests. For safety, when bears hear the sound of human bells, they will avoid them, just like what we call alerting the snake. No wonder there are bells of various shapes for sale in the art shops near Kappa Bridge. It takes about three or four hours to walk to the trailhead. The tour group did not have so much time to allow tourists to hike here, so we spent about an hour enjoying the scenery along the Azusa River.

🌲Kamikochi is a park with a great atmosphere. No matter what season you go, it will always be engraved in everyone's memory. We traveled on May 17, 2024. It was a period when there was still some snow on the mountain range. The weather was cool and comfortable. Walked 1-2 km. But it took a long time because we could stop at every spot.😊 Travel route Outbound 🚞 Matsumoto - Shinshimashima by train 🚌 Shinshimashima - Kamikochi by bus For the return trip 🚌 Kamikochi - Shinshimashima by bus 🚞 Shinshimashima - Matsumoto by train The details of the 2025 trip have changed. Please check the travel details again. As for the nature study, there are many trails from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge. You can look at the map and walk along the path. And don't forget to bring a bell (to chase away the bears 🐻😊). We didn't walk to Myojin Pond. As for food and souvenirs, there are many shops to choose from. We bought something like fried buns with beef and deer fillings to fill our stomachs and bought some ice cream and snacks. #kamikochi #kamikochi #Japan #naturetourism #traveljapan #traveljapanbyyourself #japantrip

📍Trip Overview Bicycle tour of Karuizawa Experience the classic spots in Karuizawa and even stargazing 🏖️Photogenic spots Keraike Skating Rink Harunire Terrace Kumoba Pond (when it's snowing) Kogen Church Karuizawa New Art Museum Tombo no Yu Mampei Hotel 🚇Transportation: Bicycle rental Shironeko Cycle - 2 minutes walk from the north exit of Karuizawa Station 150 electric bicycles, pay in cash 9:00am - 5:00pm 1,500 yen 9:00am - 9:00pm 1,700 yen No reservation required, just go to the store and rent. They start lending out a little before opening hours and are flexible with return times. I used it until 8pm. 📷Recommended photo locations Keraike Skating Rink I was able to see shooting stars while stargazing. 10:00-16:00 (last entrance 15:30) *Closed 1/20-1/24 Adults 1,900 yen *Including rental shoes Gloves and knit hat (or helmet) must be worn Rental items (helmet, chair with sled): Free Rental items (gloves and knit hat): Paid There is a luggage storage area, but it is not a locker, so please keep your valuables with you Use for 1 hour and 30 minutes after renting shoes *Re-entry is not allowed. *Please note that some areas are not open depending on the season 🍜Exquisite gourmet food Kagimotoya, a popular soba restaurant, right next to Nakakaruizawa Station 　　　　Payment by cash only Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura in Harunire Terrace 　　　The apple pie is exquisite 🏠Recommended accommodation Ace Inn Matsumoto, 1 minute walk from Matsumoto Station (almost directly connected) Breakfast buffet 💡Notes It gets quite cold, so gloves and knit hats are a must. 1/25 (Sat) 4°/-7° #Karuizawa #Trip to Karuizawa #Sightseeing in Karuizawa #Karuizawa Kogen Church #Keraike Pond #Keraike Skating Rink #Hoshino Resort #Kumoba Pond #Tombonoyu #Harunire Terrace #Shironeko Cycle #Karuizawa New Art Museum #Mampei Hotel #Kogen Church #Stargazing on the Ice

⛺【About Kamikochi】 📌 Is it open all year round? ❌ No! 📅 Closed from mid-November to mid-April every year (the scenic area is closed to the public due to heavy snow in winter) ✔ Open in mid-April, new greenery in May, cool summer in July and August, and beautiful red leaves in September and October! 📌 How to get there? 🚍 🚗 Self-driving: Private cars are not allowed in Kamikochi! Take a bus or carpool from Matsumoto, Hirayu Onsen, Takayama Station, etc.: Matsumoto Station → Kamikochi (direct bus, approx. 1.5 hours) Hirayu Onsen → Kamikochi (bus, approx. 30 minutes) Takayama Station → Hirayu Onsen → Kamikochi (approx. 2 hours) 🚶 Recommended for hiking Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond (2 km, 1 hour) Easy to walk, beautiful scenery along the way! Kappa Bridge → Tokusawa (7 km, 3 hours) Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, the forest and streams are super healing! Challenge Yokoo, Koike Shindo, and Karasawa: Advanced hiking, the scenery is more and more amazing! Must-visit attractions in Kamikochi Kappa Bridge 🌉 📌 The symbol of Kamikochi! Standing on the bridge, you can see the Azusa River and the Hotaka Mountain Range. When the weather is good, the snow-capped mountains are reflected on the water, which is a postcard-level scenery! It is the most beautiful in the morning when there are few people and the morning mist is lingering. It is recommended to come early in the morning! Myojin Pond 🏞 📌 A super quiet secret place, with clear lake water and surrounded by mountains and forests, it is perfect for daze and taking photos! This is a shrine sanctuary, so keep quiet~ Taisho Pond 🌊 📌 The dreamy lake view in the early morning, with dead trees and snow-capped mountains reflected on the lake, is so unreal when the morning mist is lingering! It is recommended to come in the morning, when there are few people and you can take atmospheric photos! 🧡 Travel TIPS (must read!) ✔ Book accommodation in advance during peak season! Popular room types in hotels in the scenic area are fully booked one year in advance! ✔ Wear non-slip hiking shoes! There are slippery roads, so protect yourself! ✔ There is no convenience store here! Remember to buy food and water in Matsumoto/Takayama in advance. ✔ The ultraviolet rays are super strong! Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you don't want to get sunburned, be sure to apply sunscreen! ✔ Take your trash with you! The ecological protection here is super strict, and there are no trash cans, so everyone must be conscious!

#SoloTravelPlan Today, I would like to share how to travel to Kamikochi by bus. Kamikochi is located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. 📍We mainly traveled by bus. We took the bus at Shinjuku Bus Station and took the Shinjuku Express Bus at 11.55. We got off at Matsumoto Station at 15.13. We booked the bus ticket 1 month in advance. We booked online for 4,300 yen/person. We could choose our seats. We would receive a QR code via email. On the day of travel, we could show the QR code to the staff. We could also print it. 📍We stayed in Matsumoto for 1 night at Ace Inn Mastumoto Hotel, which is right across from the bus station. Just cross the street. It was very convenient. 📍We woke up at 4 am, took a shower, got dressed, and checked out. We left our bags at the hotel and walked to catch the bus. We booked the bus at 5.30 am. 📍We booked a bus ticket directly to Kamikochi online. You can book 1 month in advance. It is recommended to book at 22:00 Thai time because Thailand and Japan are 2 hours apart. We think that the reason why people do not book in time may be because they are confused about the time. There are only 2 rounds of direct buses from Matsumoto: the first round is at 05:30, arriving at Kamikochi at 07:05, and the second round is at 10:15, arriving at Kamikochi at 11:55. The price is 4,000 yen/person. You cannot choose your seat. Whoever arrives first gets on the bus first and can choose their seat first. We printed out the reservation form and showed it to the driver. 📍For the return trip to Kamikochi, we also booked online in advance. It was convenient. However, the return trip is different from the trip because there is no direct bus from Kamikochi to Matsumoto. We had to take the bus from Kamikochi to Shin-Shimashima Station first to change to the train to Matsumoto Station. We booked the return trip at 13:20 and arrived in Matsumoto at 15:15. The ticket price is 3,260 yen/person. You should arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time because sometimes there are a lot of people. 📍If you didn't book a ticket online in advance, you can buy a ticket at the ticket machine at Matsumoto Station for the outbound trip. For the return trip, you can buy it at the Kamikochi ticket counter. The ticket price includes both the bus and the train. You can show the officer a single ticket. #Kamikochi #Matsumoto #TravelPlan #SoloTravelPlan #TravelJapan

This is Mariko (@mariko000001) from Weekend Travel ☺️ I've put together a list of the most amazing views I've ever been to that I'd like to recommend 💛 There are many places you can enjoy throughout the four seasons, so I hope you'll definitely go ☺️✨ Among them, Kamikochi, which I chose for the cover, opens in mid-April and is my favorite place to see the beautiful Japanese Alps 🏔️ The most popular season is summer, but personally, I like Kamikochi the best after it opens ❣️ It's cold, so you'll need to wear warm clothes 😚 I hope this is helpful! Comments are also encouraging, so even just emojis are welcome ~ Where do you want to go? 𝕚𝕟𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣𖡡𖥧𖤣 ⚠️All information is current as of March 2024. Please check the information whenever you go out💁♀️ ↓　　　　　　↓　　　　　　　　↓ ❶📍#Tottori Sand Dunes 🌍2164-971 Yuyama, Fukube-cho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture 🅿️Yes 💰You can also take the lift to Tottori Sand Dunes. Adults 300 yen one way, 400 yen round trip. Children 200 yen one way, 300 yen round trip. Free for children under 4 years old. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ❷📍#Oobuchi Sasaba ▼ Business hours/Open all year round 🌍 1445 Obuchi, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture 🅿️There are two parking lots, the first and the second. The first parking lot is the closest - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ❸📍#Shiozuka Kogen 👉Hydrangeas in summer and Japanese pampas grass in autumn are beautiful, and it is also popular as a photo spot. In spring, field burning is carried out, and the dynamic scenery is overwhelming. 🌍 Hirano Shiozukamine, Yamashiro Town, Miyoshi City - Shikoku Chuo City, Ehime Prefecture 🅿️Available - - - - - - - - - - - - - ❹📍#Kashiwajima 👉There is no swimming beach on Kashiwajima, so you can swim freely. There is no set date for the beach to open, but in the summer, it is crowded with many beachgoers. Another great thing about it is that snorkeling and diving in wetsuits can be enjoyed all year round. 🌍 Kashiwajima, Otsuki-cho, Hata-gun, Kochi Prefecture 🅿️Please use the parking lot at your accommodation or the Kashiwajima Tourist Information Center - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ❺📍#Okawahara Plateau 👉The view from the top is beautiful, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Awaji Island. 🌍Kamiokawahara, Sanagouchi Village, Meito District, Tokushima Prefecture 🅿️Available (about 100 cars) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ❻📍#Kamikochi Kappa Bridge 👉Amazing view known as the Switzerland of Japan ▼ Opening: Mid-April Closed: Mid-November 🌍Azumi Kamikochi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture 🅿️Private cars are prohibited in Kamikochi all year round. Please use the shuttle bus or taxi from each parking lot. 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕗𝕚𝕝𝕖- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣�𖥧𖤣 This is Mariko on a weekend getaway. 👉@mariko000001 My goal is to travel to all 47 prefectures and make a post about them. We are a crazy couple who basically travel by car and don't mind driving for 7 hours. Of course we want to highlight famous places, but also minor places💡 If you're happy to support us🧡, we'd be happy if you follow us🥹🫰 Comments and requests are very welcome, so we look forward to them✨ We'll work hard every day to help you with your travels🥰 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -𖤣𖥧𖥣𖡡𖥧𖤣 #AmazingView#AmazingViewYouWantToVisitAtLargeTime#KappaBridge#TottoriTourism #ShizuokaTourism #EhimeTourism #TokushimaTourism #KochiTourism #NaganoTourism #ShikokuTourism #Sakura2024

| A hidden hot spring retreat. Hoshino Resorts KAI Matsumoto is like a hidden gem✨ 🛏The rooms are simple and clean, with tatami mats and wooden furniture. The view from the window is stunning, with mountains and blue skies in the distance. The hot springs♨ are the soul of the resort, with mineral-rich water that washes away fatigue. In the open-air bath, you can listen to the wind and birds, and feel the warmth of nature. 🍱The food is exquisite, with fresh local ingredients turned into delicious dishes. From refreshing breakfast side dishes to hearty kaiseki dinners, every bite is authentic Japanese flavor. You can also stroll around the nearby old streets, admire traditional architecture, and experience the simplicity and tranquility of the Japanese countryside. Escape the hustle and bustle, and come to KAI Matsumoto for a soul-soothing journey.

Hey, friends! 👋 Today, I want to recommend a great travel destination: Nagano, Japan! 🇯🇵 Not only does it have a rich history and culture, but it also has breathtaking natural scenery. Let's see how to explore Nagano in two days! 🔍 Day 1: Explore Nagano's History and Culture - Morning: Visit the Nagano City Museum of History to experience the charm of the city. - 🍜 Noon: Enjoy local specialties, such as Nagano ramen and sushi, at a local restaurant. - 🏞️ Afternoon: Visit Nagano Park, Tenryuji Temple, and other attractions to learn about the local culture. - 🌆 Evening: Head to the snack street for grilled fish and fried chicken with a night view. Perfect! 🌲 Day 2: Experience Nagano's Natural Scenery and Outdoor Activities - 🚶‍♂️ Morning: Go hiking in Senjozawa Park or Kamikochi to enjoy nature. - 🍴 Noon: Have fresh and delicious farm food at a restaurant at the foot of the mountain. - 🎿 Afternoon: Choose skiing or rafting according to the season and have fun. - ♨️ Evening: Relax in a hot spring hotel and unwind after a long day. This trip really made me feel the unique charm of Nagano. Do you want to try it too? Share your travel plans with us! 👇

Matsumoto is known as the "music capital" full of musical charm. Located in the central part of Nagano Prefecture, it is quiet and beautiful and is a little-known niche destination. It is located at the foot of the Japanese Alps⛰️ and is surrounded by mountains over 3,000 meters above sea level. It combines hot springs, mountains and fine wines, and the beautiful scenery is unforgettable. Located in the historic Asama Onsen♨️, this hotel offers eight types of thirteen different hot spring experiences. In the spacious lobby, melodious music echoes, and guests can savor Shinshu wine while feeling the pleasure and relaxation brought by the music. This atmosphere is very special. The hotel's hot springs are divided into two major bathing areas, "Guitian" and "Xiangyun", and the men's and women's baths are used in turns according to the time. In addition, there are special sawdust baths, soaking baths and standing baths to provide guests with a diverse bathing experience. The Matsumoto area is famous for its specialty wines🍷 and the hotel's dinner fully reflected this. The recommended main course is red wine pot sukiyaki🍲, and the dessert is also built around the wine theme. The special traditional toy ball will reveal three layers of side dishes when it is taken apart, each layer is a tribute to the Shinshu flavor. 🚌Traffic Information: ✅Take the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station, about 150 minutes. ✅Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kanazawa Station to Nagano Station, about 90 minutes. ✅The hotel is a 1-hour and 17-minute drive from the scenic Kamikochi, making it an ideal base for exploring nature and culture. Hours and 17 minutes.

I love outdoor hot springs 😻. Locals recommended this hot spring 🧖 to us. They go there every winter. The environment is nice 😌. I went there again in the morning and took some photos. The water is milky white ⛄. Shirahone Onsen has a history of over 600 years. It is famous for its milky white water, which looks like boiled bones, hence the name "Shirahone Onsen" ♨️. Locals say this is a natural sulfur hot spring, rich in minerals and calcium acid, which is effective for gastrointestinal diseases, neurosis, and anemia. 😆 It's perfect for winter therapy. 📍 Hot spring location: In the Hida Mountains, west of Matsumoto, Nagano, at an altitude of 1,420 meters. There are many mountains nearby, which is very relaxing. 🚌 Transportation There is no direct bus. It is recommended to transfer at Matsumoto or charter a car. 🔷 Train: Matsumoto Station 13:29 - Shinshimashima Station 13:59 🔷 Bus: Shinshimashima Station 14:10 - Shirahone Onsen 15:33 ⚠️ Note: If you miss the above bus, you will need to transfer again. ♨️ Hot spring tips: No drinks or personal items are allowed in public baths (you can take photos if there is no one else or you have the bath to yourself). You must wash your body before entering the bath. Women with long hair should tie it up. In Japan, you are not allowed to wear a swimsuit in the bath. You must be naked. Men's and women's baths are separate.

♨️Hot spring location: Shirahone Onsen is my favorite outdoor hot spring in the deep mountains of Japan, haha. 🤪 I've been to Shirahone Onsen three times. ♨️Hot spring features: In winter, the entire hot spring hotel is surrounded by thick snow. The hot spring water here is calcified and has a beautiful color. Take a taxi into the mountains, and at an altitude of 1,500 meters, you can hear the chirping of birds from the treetops of the birch trees. Quietly immerse yourself in the hydrogen sulfide hot spring and let everything slow down. This is a great place for a winter holiday. The open-air hot spring is a 100% natural hot spring. It was snowing when we went there. The birch forest in the mountains, the milky white hot spring, the snowflakes falling from the sky, and the snow-covered mountains make it a paradise on earth. ♨️Summary tips: Overall, I highly recommend it. It's a beautiful hot spring worth visiting three times.

#DomesticTravelRecord It's here again this year!! You can see the colorful Matsumoto Castle projection mapping ❤️🧡🾀ི🩷💚ྀི💙ྀི🩵🾀ི💜ྀི🤍ྀི🤎ྀི😭Thank you for the moving experience. And this year, it's not just Matsumoto Castle and the castle gate! There are other things to do! And it's free 🙄 Whyyyyyyyyy⁉️This time, there are 1st to 3rd sessions! I want to see them all 🙄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈Shooting locationTitle: Matsumoto Castle Production Mapping Phase 1📍: National Treasure Matsumoto Castle Castle Gate📍: 4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture⏱𓈒𓏸: 18:00~22:00[Date and time] Saturday, December 14, 2024 - Sunday, February 16, 2025 18:00~22:00＜Phase 1: A dynamic historical picture scroll＞ Saturday, December 14, 2024 - Wednesday, January 8, 2025＜Phase 2: Traditional culture colored with light＞ Thursday, January 9, 2025 - Wednesday, January 29, 2025＜Phase 3: Spring, flowers in full bloom＞ January 30th (Thursday) - February 16th (Sunday), 2025 🚃: About 20 minutes walk from JR Matsumoto Station 🚌: From JR Matsumoto Station, take the Utsukushigahara Onsen Line, Asama Line, Okada Line, or Alps Park Line to Matsumoto Castle/City Hall 🚗: About 20 minutes by car from Matsumoto IC on the Nagano Expressway 🅿️ *Please use the Matsumoto City Matsumoto Castle Otemon Gate Parking Lot (multi-storey) (7:30-22:30 150 yen/30 minutes for regular cars, about 8 minutes walk to Matsumoto Castle). Note. Tripods are allowed, but taking photos on stepladders is prohibited. #MatsumotoCastle #WinterTrip #SoloTrip #NaganoTrip #NaganoTourism #NaganoTouristSightseeing Spots Model. @Rina Japanese Travel Tour

It's so nice to soak in a hot spring in the cold winter!❗️ Soak in a hot spring in the snow Breathe in the fresh air and watch the snowflakes ❄️ slowly fall Shirahone Onsen is located on a mountain at an altitude of about 1,200 meters. The hot spring is surrounded by lush forests and clear streams, allowing you to experience the changing seasons and the beauty of nature. Many historical buildings and facilities have been preserved, and the rich history and culture have been passed down. There are many tourist attractions nearby: There are many scenic spots around Shirahone Onsen, so you can explore the surrounding natural scenery while soaking in the hot spring. 🚝Transportation Matsumoto → Shinshimashima → Sawando Bus Terminal → Shirahone Onsen Take the Matsumoto Electric Railway from Matsumoto Station to Shinshimashima Station, then transfer to a bus to Shirahone Onsen. Renting a car or driving is more convenient.