Popular Sightseeing Tours in Taisho Pond

We recommend starting your Kamikochi journey from Taisho Pond, where you can admire the reflection of the Hotaka Mountain Range. Follow the trail along the right bank of the Azusa River, passing sequentially through the Tashiro Pond wetlands, then crossing Tashiro Bridge and Azusa River Bridge. Finally, reach Kamikochi's landmark Kappa Bridge, where you can take a short break and enjoy the scenery. If time permits, you can continue north to Myojin Pond to experience its mystical atmosphere. This classic route combines natural beauty with moderate hiking, suitable for most travelers.

Direct accommodation options around Taisho Pond are relatively few, mainly concentrated in the Kappa Bridge area, which is a bit further from Taisho Pond. Kamikochi Park offers a variety of accommodation types, including hot spring hotels and mountain lodges, most of which provide comfortable lodging and dining services. Due to entrance restrictions into Kamikochi, if you wish to stay overnight within the park, we recommend choosing accommodation near Kappa Bridge, as it is convenient to reach Taisho Pond by walking or park bus.

Taisho Pond and Myojin Pond each have their own unique characteristics and are both highly recommended for photography, depending on the atmosphere you wish to capture. Taisho Pond is known for its clear waters, dead trees, and the perfect reflection of the Hotaka Mountain Range. Especially in the soft light of early morning or dusk, the lake surface is like a mirror, exuding a dreamlike quality. Myojin Pond, on the other hand, is surrounded by forests, and the Hotaka Shrine by the lake adds a sacred tranquility. The combination of dead trees and forests in the water presents a more secluded and mysterious ambiance, suitable for capturing the feeling of a hidden forest gem.

The peak season for viewing autumn foliage (koyo) at Taisho Pond and the Kamikochi area is typically from late September to mid-October each year. During this period, the surrounding larch trees gradually turn golden, complementing the reds and oranges of other deciduous trees, creating a layered and vibrant spectacle that adorns the shores of Taisho Pond. On clear days, the golden leaves reflected in the water make the scenery even more captivating. Actual color change times may vary slightly due to annual climate differences.

The primary way to travel from Matsumoto to Taisho Pond is by public transportation. First, you need to take the Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line from JR Matsumoto Station to the terminal station, 'Shin-Shimashima Station'. Upon arrival at Shin-Shimashima Station, transfer to a bus bound for Kamikochi. Private vehicles are restricted in the Kamikochi area, and the bus will take you directly into the park. You can alight at Taisho Pond Station. The bus service is frequent and a convenient option.

The recommended touring route around Taisho Pond is to walk along the nature trail on both sides of the Azusa River. Starting from Taisho Pond, you can proceed along the flat path towards Kappa Bridge. Along the way, you will pass the picturesque Tashiro Pond, a small pond surrounded by wetlands and forests, offering different charms in each season. You will then cross Tashiro Bridge and Azusa River Bridge, enjoying the clear waters of the Azusa River and the forest scenery along the banks. This route is easy to walk and suitable for travelers of all ages.

Yes, Taisho Pond does offer boat rental services. You can rent a boat directly at the boathouse on the shore of Taisho Pond. It typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and no prior reservation is needed. Boating on the emerald green waters allows you to admire the surrounding Hotaka Mountain Range and dead tree scenery from a unique perspective, experiencing the harmony of the calm water and nature. This is a popular activity for getting close to the beauty of Taisho Pond. We recommend confirming rental procedures and related information on-site.

When visiting Taisho Pond, we recommend preparing the following practical gear: comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes are essential due to the amount of walking involved. Even in summer, temperatures can vary significantly between morning and evening, so it's advisable to bring a lightweight warm jacket or layered clothing. To cope with unpredictable weather, rain gear (raincoat or a lightweight umbrella) is indispensable. Sun protection items like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, along with ample water supply, are also important. If you are concerned about insects, consider bringing insect repellent. Lastly, don't forget your camera to capture the beauty of Taisho Pond.

If you are only stopping at Taisho Pond to admire the scenery and take photos, it will take approximately thirty minutes to an hour. If you plan to walk from Taisho Pond to Tashiro Pond along the trail and continue to Kappa Bridge, this section of the walk takes about one to one and a half hours one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. Therefore, for a more comprehensive tour around Taisho Pond, including the walk, it is recommended to allocate about two to three hours.

Walking from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge along the nature trail on both sides of the Azusa River is on a flat and well-maintained path. The walking distance is approximately three kilometers. Generally, if you walk at a leisurely pace, enjoying the scenery along the way, it will take about one to one and a half hours. This is a scenic and low-difficulty route suitable for travelers of all fitness levels, allowing you to fully appreciate Kamikochi's natural landscape.