[2024 Matsumoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Taisho Ike Pond (Updated Nov)
Ponds
Geological Sites
Attractions
Address:
Japan, 〒390-1520 長野県松本市安曇上高地
Opening times:
Open year round, 24/7Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 hour
Phone:
+81 263-34-3292
Japan Alps: Kamikochi, Nagano Prefecture
Located in the birthplace of the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi offers breathtaking views and access to your next adventure.
The natural history of Kamikochi is one of great elemental upheavals occurring over many thousands of years, though some of these were also quite recent. The mountains and valleys were shaped in part by glacial activity, evidence of which can still be seen in some of the most prominent peaks. Another major player in the formation of the area was Mt. Yakedake, whose eruption over 14,000 years ago changed the course of the Azusa River, causing it to run through the basin in which present day Kamikochi and Matsumoto are located.
Mt. Yakedake would again play a role in shaping Kamikochi’s landscape when another eru#asia tion in the summer of 1915 dammed the Azusa River, creating Taisho Pond. It should be mentioned that Mt. Yakedake is the only active volcano in the Northern Alps and still proclaims its fury to the heavens by constantly emitting a plume of smoke.
#japan #nationalpark #travel #nagano #kamikochi #mountains #hiking #asia
|Stunning Autumn Colors: Kamikochi, Nagano (with Transportation Guide). Kamikochi will be closed on November 15, so I went on the 8th to see its stunning autumn colors before it closed.
The main attractions in Kamikochi are Kappa Bridge, Taisho Pond, and Myojin Pond.
My walking route for the day was Kamikochi Bus Terminal → Kappa Bridge → Taisho Pond → Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond → Kappa Bridge → Kamikochi Bus Terminal.
At this time, the night buses from Shinjuku and the buses from Nagoya and Nagano are all suspended.
Even the first direct bus from Matsumoto is full.
So I chose to buy a train and bus combo ticket in [Matsumoto].
✓ Take the train at 6:31 am to Shin-Shimashima Station, and transfer seamlessly to the bus to Kamikochi, [no reservation required].
✓ Be sure to [reserve] the bus from Kamikochi to Shin-Shimashima for the return trip.
Hiking route:
① Kappa Bridge → Taisho Pond, about 1h20min with photo stops, just in time to return to Kappa Bridge for lunch.
② Kappa Bridge → Myojin Pond, there are two routes, left and right, the left bank is farther, we took the left bank route and returned on the right bank route, the whole trip took about 3h. You will encounter horses on the way, be careful not to feed them~
Kamikochi is beginner-friendly for hiking, mostly boardwalks and gravel roads, mostly flat, suitable for leisurely hiking.
About supplies: mostly at Kappa Bridge, there are cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and it is the closest attraction to the bus stop.
Kamikochi in autumn changes every day, with mainly yellow leaves, so don't expect too much from the maple leaves 🍁.
oliverdragonfly
Hiking Route in Kamikochi: A Stroll Around Taisho Pond
Kamikochi is a renowned nature reserve in Japan, boasting magnificent mountain and water scenery along with abundant natural resources. Taisho Pond, one of Kamikochi's iconic spots, offers an exceptional hiking experience. This route is beloved by visitors for its beautiful natural landscapes, lively wild monkeys, and pleasant climate.
Taisho Pond was formed in 1915 when a volcanic eruption caused a mudflow that blocked the Azusa River, creating the lake. The lake's surface is mirror-like, reflecting the surrounding mountains and greenery. Especially in the early morning, a light mist hovers over the water, creating a picturesque scene. Walking along the lakeside trail, you can enjoy the pure air and tranquil environment, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Around Taisho Pond, you might encounter local wild monkeys. These lively creatures often appear in groups in the forest, adding a lot of fun to your hiking trip. Remember to keep your distance and respect their natural habitat.
The climate around Taisho Pond is pleasant, making it suitable for outdoor activities in any season, whether it's the coolness of spring and summer or the crispness of autumn and winter. The hiking route is moderate, allowing both families and solo travelers to easily enjoy the magnificent natural scenery. The scenery along the way changes with the seasons, offering different kinds of beauty that will leave you mesmerized.
Come take a stroll around Taisho Pond and enjoy this time of close contact with nature, experiencing the grandeur and tranquility of Kamikochi! 🏞️🐒🌲
愛旅行與藝術的Winwing
Taisho Ike Pond
#thingstodo A stunning lake view, a great start point to the miraculous trip to kamigochi. It does worth to spend few day here to feel how amazing our nature is.Very beautiful place to see the stunning views of Japan alps. The water in this pond is so clear that you can see the bottom of the pond. In a good weather day, you can see the mountains reflected on the pond. If you want to visit this place and want to make a short walking to Kappa bridge (3 km), getting off the bus at Taisho-ike bus stop.