For a summer outing! Taishoike Pond in Kamikochi, Nagano

Nagano
Experience Gifu

2024/08/13

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Taishoike Pond in the morning mist (Courtesy of Matsumoto City Alps Resort Maintenance Headquarters)

Fantastic pond revealed by a major volcanic eruption

Taisho Pond is one of the most scenic spots in Kamikochi, located in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. During the Taisho Era (1912-1926), the Azusa River was blocked by the eruption of Yakidake (Mt. Yake), and Taisho Pond appeared overnight. Now, more than 100 years later, the area is only about a quarter of what it was then, and most of the dead trees have disappeared, but the area still offers a variety of views depending on the season and time of day. The fantastic morning mist can be seen when the temperature difference between the morning and evening is extreme! On calm, windless days, the surface of the water reflects the grandeur of the Hotaka mountain range and Yake-dake (Mt. Yaki).

Taishoike Pond with different expressions (Courtesy of Alps Resort Maintenance Headquarters, Matsumoto City)

Easy hiking route for beginners

After enjoying the spectacular view of Taisho Pond and Yake-dake, it is time to start the hiking course. There are two courses: the Azusa River Course, where you can enjoy the view of the flow of Azusa River and Yake-dake (Mt. Yake), and the Forest Course, where you can walk along wooden paths while taking a walk in the forest. The distance from Taishoike Pond, the starting point, to Kappa-bashi Bridge, the goal, is about 4 km. Both courses can be reached in about one hour if you walk normally, and two hours is sufficient for a leisurely walk while enjoying the scenery. The courses are well-maintained with easy walking paths, so beginners are also welcome to join.

The Azusa River Course, which walks along the river, is the most attractive because, as the name suggests, you can hike right beside the Azusa River. The other, the forest course, is a great way to walk while soaking up the greenery of Kamikochi, and has some elevation differences as a course as well. If you are lucky, you may see animals such as Japanese monkeys, ducks, and mandarin ducks. (*Please do not feed the wild animals. The Azusa River course (Tashiro Marshland ⇔ Tashiro Bridge) is currently closed due to heavy rainfall in July. Please use the forest course.)
*As usual, the winter closure of the prefectural road Kamikochi Koen Route will be lifted on April 17, and buses and cabs will be able to pass through.

Taisho Pond with a starry sky

In addition, the star-filled sky that can be seen in various parts of Kamikochi is breathtaking because of the restrictions on private cars, the lack of street lights due to the national park, and the fact that most facilities dim their lights at night. The Taishoike Hotel, located on Taishoike Pond, holds an annual star gazing event with a star gazer for guests only. With Taishoike Pond spread out before you, this is the best spot for star gazing, where you can see the stars reflected on Mt. The air in Kamikochi at night is cold, even in summer, so it is best to bring a cloak and a flashlight to illuminate your steps.

Starry sky reflected on the lake surface

Feel the power of nature

Taisho Pond, created by Mother Nature, changes its appearance with the seasons and time. Staying here, exercising, and being healed... you will receive power from nature and refresh your mind and body! Why not visit for the fantastic sight of the morning mist and the star-filled sky?

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The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to freely select a train and accommodations and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.

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Location

Azumi-Kamikochi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture

Access

Take the Alpico Kotsu Kamikochi Line from Matsumoto Station to the last stop, Niijima Station, about 30 minutes. From Niijima Station, transfer to a local bus for a 60-minute ride to Kamikochi Bus Terminal.

Kamikochi is closed to cars all year round.

*The contents and services in this article are subject to change.

*All images are for reference only.

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