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Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]
Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]
Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]
Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]
Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]

Kamikochi 4-hour stay day trip sightseeing tour | JR Azusa limited express round trip [Meet at Shinjuku Station / All seats reserved]


Booking confirmation: within 14 days before the departure
Duration:1 day(s)
Guided language: 日本語
Free cancellation 11 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site

  • [Confirmed Departure Dates] May 23, May 29, June 6, July 3, July 19
  • Enjoy a relaxing round trip using the JR Limited Express Azusa! (Shinjuku Station ⇔ Matsumoto Station) Experience breathtaking scenery inaccessible by car!
  • A must-visit! One of Japan's most scenic mountain locations! Enjoy a full 4 hours there!
  • Comes with Matsumoto's famous "Sanzoku-yaki Bento"!
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point
Departure TimeEarly Departure (Before 8 am)
Minimum participant requirement25 travelers
Sightseeing typeNatural sights
TransportBus tour

Product Info

The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.

  • Enjoy the magnificent scenery of nature! A leisurely 4-hour stroll around Kamikochi

Kamikochi is famous as one of Japan's most scenic mountain destinations.

Many tourists come from all over the country to see the spectacular views.

You can enjoy the divine beauty of the Japanese Alps.

The view of the Hotaka mountain range from Kappabashi Bridge, a wooden suspension bridge that is a symbol of Kamikochi, is particularly spectacular and is a spectacular viewpoint!

Also, at Taisho Pond, where Mount Yakedake and the Hotaka mountain range are beautifully reflected in the clear water, there is a mysterious landscape with a forest of trees that died in the eruption.

  • Easy travel as it is a tour

Take the JR Azusa Limited Express train to Matsumoto Station and back, and avoid traffic jams!

Due to nature conservation measures, Kamikochi is closed to private cars throughout the year! Therefore, if you go alone, you will have to transfer between vehicles, which can be a hassle.
On this tour, you can easily travel by bus from Matsumoto Station to Kamikochi.

  • When you arrive at Kamikochi, you can choose where you want to get off the bus on the day!

1. Taisho Pond
2. In front of the Imperial Hotel
3. Kamikochi Bus Terminal

Get off wherever you like!

*The drop-off location in Kamikochi may change on the day. The reunion and bus boarding location will be Kamikochi Bus Terminal.

  • We will be serving Matsumoto's specialty "Sanzoku Yaki Bento"

Matsumoto's specialty "sanzokuyaki (fried chicken)" marinated in homemade garlic soy sauce is generously served on top of rice!

It also includes side dishes unique to Shinshu, such as locally grown deep-fried yam, apricot jelly, and pickled wasabi, making for a satisfying meal.

It will be handed over at Matsumoto Station and can be enjoyed on the bus or while exploring Kamikochi.

<< What to wear when exploring Kamikochi >>

[April]

There is still a lot of snow remaining on the trail, and it is frozen solid, especially in the shade. Sneakers can be slippery and dangerous, so it is best to bring waterproof hiking boots and light crampons.

[May]

The scenery is like early summer, but snow can occasionally fall in the early part of the month.

There will be chilly days with rain and wind, with the maximum temperature around 10°C, so be sure to dress in layers, such as long-sleeved shirts and windbreakers.

Towards the end of the month, there are days when the temperature exceeds 20°C, and it becomes so hot that you start to sweat while walking.

[June]

Even though it is the rainy season, there are many sunny days and the sunshine reminds us of summer.

It can get chilly when it rains, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket.

Be sure to bring rain gear such as a folding umbrella and rainwear. A mountain parka will keep you dry in light rain.

[July]

It's cool and refreshing in the morning, but even a short walk during the day will make you sweat.

T-shirts and polo shirts are fine, but the sun is strong, so you'll need long-sleeved shirts and hats to protect yourself from the sun.

Be sure to drink plenty of water.

From mid-month onwards, summer days with temperatures above 25°C may continue, but on rainy days the temperature may not rise above 20°C, and when the wind blows it doesn't feel as hot.

[August]

Kamikochi is also in midsummer mode, although the average maximum temperature is around 23°C.

However, if you are in the sun, you will still sweat, so it is best to wear absorbent and quick-drying innerwear and clothing.

Pair your shorts or mountain skirt with tights to protect yourself from the sun and prevent injuries. Of course, don't forget your hat and rain gear.

You may occasionally encounter heavy rain, such as thunderstorms and showers, which are typical of summer.

[September]

The maximum temperature will drop below 20°C, and the crisp, clear autumn days are perfect for a stroll.

It gets cold in the mornings and evenings, and towards the end of the month the minimum temperature drops below 10°C, making it feel chilly, so you'll need warm clothing such as fleece or a hoodie.

Also, this is a time when typhoons are likely to affect you and there will be a lot of rain, so be sure to bring rain gear.

[October]

The average daytime temperature is around 15°C, making it a comfortable place to be.

Although the weather is relatively stable during this month, the weather in the mountains is changeable and there is sudden rain and, on rare occasions, snowfall, so proper winter clothing and rain gear are essential.

[November]

The number of days when the maximum temperature drops below 10°C is increasing, and it is not surprising that snow could fall at any time.

Waterproof trekking shoes are essential as the trails can be icy and snowy.

  • Single participants are welcome

Purchase Notice

[Travel conditions]

Departure/Destination: Tokyo/Nagano

Number of days: 1

Transportation: Chartered bus, JR

Operating bus company: Fukutomi Kanko or bus companies in the Hokuriku and Koshinetsu areas (according to our company standards)

Meal conditions: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 0 times

Available accommodation: None

Minimum number of participants: 25

Tour conductor: 1

Guides: 0

[Travel planning/implementation]

Company name: Hankyu Travel International Co., Ltd. East Japan Sales Headquarters Media Sales Division 1

Address: New Pier Takeshiba South Tower, 1-16-1 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0022

Registration number: Tourism Agency Commissioner's Registered Travel Agency No. 1847

Travel industry association: Full member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents

[Consignment sales]

KKDAY JAPAN Inc.

2nd floor, WESTALL Yotsuya Building, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004

Tourism Agency Commissioner's Registered Travel Agency No. 2045

Member organization: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)

Reminders

  • A minimum of 25 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 10 day(s) before the departure date

  • In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 14:00). Notifications will then be sent via email

  • Please arrive at the designated location 30 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

  • This tour is primarily a local tour for Japanese tourists. While the tour guide will communicate in Japanese, necessary information will be provided in written form in English and Chinese. In case of emergencies, translation apps on tablet devices will be used.

  • At the meeting point, a staff member will be waiting for you holding a "Hankyu Travel" sign (board or flag). Please confirm the course name and complete the registration using the name of the group representative. Please note that registration will only be completed once all members of your group have arrived.

  • This tour does not include a guide. The tour escort will manage the tour itinerary (they will not provide sightseeing guidance).

  • Depending on the number of participants, you may unfortunately be seated with other passengers on the bus or at the lunch venue, either sitting in front of or behind others. We appreciate your understanding.

  • Children aged 6 to under 12 are charged the same price as adults. Children aged 3 to under 6 will only be provided with a bus seat. Meals and other expenses incurred during the trip are not included.

  • On the day of departure, the bus company may change due to a malfunction in the bus vehicle or the driver's health (we are not liable for changes due to these reasons).

  • The above schedule may be subject to change due to transportation issues (buses, etc.), weather, local conditions, road conditions, etc., including the itinerary, sightseeing locations, order of visits, meal details, and return time. The meeting time is in Japan Standard Time, and punctuality is required. Even if a customer does not appear at the meeting time, neither our company nor the tour guide will contact the customer, and the tour will depart as scheduled.

  • We are unable to accommodate individual requests, such as changes to the meal menu.

  • Tourist information leaflets and other materials distributed by tour guides are generally in Japanese.

  • All seats on JR limited express trains and Shinkansen are non-smoking. / The JR limited express train and Shinkansen you will board will be the designated train (at the designated time) within the indicated time frame, and we cannot accommodate your preferences. / Depending on the number of participants, seats on the train or bus may be shared or in front of or behind each other. We cannot accept requests for specific seats. / If you do not use the designated train or miss it due to your own circumstances, your train ticket and limited express ticket will become invalid.

  • As this is a mountainous area, the weather can change. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, and bring a raincoat or rainwear.

  • The drop-off location in Kamikochi may change on the day of the tour. The reassembly and bus boarding location will be the Kamikochi Bus Terminal.

FAQ

1. Why is Kamikochi a highly recommended destination for nature lovers?

Kamikochi is renowned as one of Japan's most scenic mountain areas, offering breathtaking natural beauty. It features pristine rivers like the Azusa River, lush forests, and majestic peaks of the Northern Japan Alps. Visitors can enjoy clear alpine air, stunning panoramic views, and a serene environment perfect for reconnecting with nature. It's an ideal escape from urban life, providing unique landscapes that are largely preserved.

2. What are the main attractions and natural highlights to experience in Kamikochi?

Kamikochi boasts several iconic natural attractions perfect for scenic walks and photography. The Kappa Bridge (Kappa-bashi) is a popular wooden suspension bridge offering picturesque views of the Hotaka mountain range and the Azusa River. Myojin Pond, known for its spiritual significance, provides tranquil reflections. Taisho Pond, formed by a volcanic eruption, features standing dead trees in its clear waters, creating a unique landscape.

3. When is the best time to visit Kamikochi, and why is it closed during winter?

The ideal time to visit Kamikochi is from late April to mid-November, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, creating spectacular scenery. Kamikochi closes during winter, typically from mid-November to mid-April, due to heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions that make roads impassable and outdoor exploration unsafe. This closure also helps preserve its delicate ecosystem.

4. What is the most convenient way to travel to Kamikochi from Matsumoto Station?

From Matsumoto Station, the most convenient way to reach Kamikochi is by taking the local Kamikochi Line train to Shin-Shimashima Station, which takes approximately 30 minutes. From Shin-Shimashima, you then transfer to a direct bus bound for Kamikochi, which adds another 60-70 minutes to your journey. This combined train and bus route is the primary public transportation method, offering a seamless transfer for visitors.

5. Is private transportation necessary for exploring Kamikochi's natural beauty?

No, private cars are generally prohibited beyond specific entry points in Kamikochi to protect its pristine environment. Visitors typically access Kamikochi via designated public transportation, such as buses or taxis from nearby transfer hubs like Hirayu Onsen or Shin-Shimashima Station. This restriction ensures that the natural beauty remains undisturbed, making walking and designated bus routes the primary modes of exploration within the area.

6. What is the total travel time from Tokyo to Kamikochi for a day trip?

For a day trip from Tokyo to Kamikochi, the total one-way travel time is approximately 4-5 hours. This typically involves taking a JR limited express train, such as the Azusa, from Shinjuku Station to Matsumoto Station, which takes around 2.5-3 hours. From Matsumoto, you then transfer to the local train and bus service to reach Kamikochi, adding another 1.5-2 hours. Planning for a full day is highly recommended to enjoy the journey and the destination.

7. What are the recommended activities for a 4-hour stay in Kamikochi?

With a 4-hour stay in Kamikochi, focus on exploring the central area. A popular itinerary includes walking from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge (approximately 1.5-2 hours, including photo stops), enjoying the iconic views of the Hotaka mountains and Azusa River. Alternatively, you can spend more time leisurely around Kappa Bridge, enjoying the scenic walking trails along the Azusa River, or consider a shorter walk to Myojin Pond if time allows.

8. How can one book a day trip tour to Kamikochi that includes JR Azusa round trip?

You can conveniently book a comprehensive Kamikochi day trip tour, which often includes the JR Azusa limited express round trip from Shinjuku to Matsumoto, through an online travel platform like KKday. Booking through KKday offers the benefit of easy reservation for bundled packages that combine transportation and guided experiences, simplifying your travel planning and ensuring all seats are reserved for a comfortable and hassle-free journey, avoiding the need to arrange multiple tickets individually.

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