Kamikochi’s Taisho Pond & Mt. Yakedake areas

WALK

You can hike to Kamikochi from Shimashima via the Tokugo Pass (10-12 hour).

BUS

Take the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line train from Matsumoto Station to Shin-Shimashima (30 min), followed by a bus ride to Kamikochi (60 min). There is also one direct bus a day to Kamikochi from Matsumoto Bus Terminal (90 min). See the timetable here.

CAR

The road to Kamikochi is closed to private cars just below the last tunnel at Sawando. You can park your car at Sawando for 500 yen a day, and catch a bus or taxi into the park. The parking outside of Kamikochi is about 50 minutes by car from Matsumoto Station.

OTHER

You could also opt to ride your bike into the park. Unfortunately, between the car and Kamikochi is a long, dark, steep, ascending tunnel where buses will rush by you. This can be a very unpleasant experience. However, once out of the tunnel you will be treated to some of the most amazing mountain views in Japan.