Kamikochi offers numerous beautiful walking trails for all levels of hikers, allowing you to explore its stunning natural landscapes. Below are three ideal walking courses, broken down into options that vary in difficulty and duration. Each course offers a different experience but all showcase Kamikochi’s remarkable beauty.

1. Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge (via Tashiro Pond, Tashiro Bridge, and Weston Monument)
- Distance: 6 km round trip
- Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty: Easy

Course details:
- Taisho Pond: Begin your journey at the serene Taisho Pond, a peaceful body of water formed by the 1915 volcanic eruption of Mount Yakedake. The pond reflects the surrounding mountains, making for an excellent photo opportunity.
- Tashiro Pond: Continue along the trail to Tashiro Pond, a small but beautiful marshland area surrounded by lush forests. The pond’s calm waters provide a great spot to pause and enjoy nature’s tranquility.
- Tashiro Bridge: Shortly after Tashiro Pond, you’ll cross Tashiro Bridge, which spans the Azusa River. The view of the flowing river and the surrounding greenery makes this a scenic spot for photos.
- Weston Monument: As you continue towards Kappa Bridge, you’ll pass the Weston Monument, dedicated to Walter Weston, the British missionary who popularized mountaineering in Japan. This historical monument is a great spot for a brief rest.
- Kappa Bridge: Finish your walk at the iconic Kappa Bridge, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and the clear, blue waters of the Azusa River. It’s the perfect place to relax and reflect on your journey, with cafes nearby for refreshments.
This course is perfect for those looking for a relaxing and scenic walk through Kamikochi’s key natural spots. The terrain is relatively flat, making it accessible for most walkers.

2. Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond (via Tashiro Pond, Tashiro Bridge, and Kamikochi Bus Terminal)

- Distance: 5.5 km one way
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Course details:
- Taisho Pond: Start your walk at Taisho Pond, where the calm waters beautifully mirror the surrounding mountains and forest.
- Tashiro Pond: A short walk from Taisho Pond will bring you to Tashiro Pond, where you can enjoy the peaceful marshland environment.
- Tashiro Bridge: Cross Tashiro Bridge after passing Tashiro Pond. The bridge offers stunning views of the Azusa River, lined with trees and mountain backdrops.
- Kamikochi Bus Terminal: Take a brief stop at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal for a rest or to grab refreshments before continuing your journey.
- Kappa Bridge: End your hike at the famous Kappa Bridge, with its sweeping views of the surrounding mountain range and the Azusa River. It’s a great spot to end your adventure or take memorable photos.
This course offers a slightly shorter route, making it suitable for those looking for a leisurely walk with the flexibility of stopping at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal before reaching Kappa Bridge.

3. Kappa Bridge to Taisho Pond and Myojin Pond (Extended Course)

- Distance: 12 km round trip
- Time: 4 to 5 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Course details:
- Kappa Bridge:
- Myojin Pond (Myojin-ike): After relaxing at Kappa Bridge, continue your hike toward Myojin Pond. This tranquil pond, surrounded by forest and mountains, is also home to the Hotaka Shrine, which adds a cultural element to your adventure.
This extended course is ideal for those who want to explore more of Kamikochi, combining scenic walks with an introduction to the area’s spiritual and cultural heritage at Myojin Pond.
