Myojin Pond and Hotaka Shrine Inner Shrine
A sacred spot enveloped in silence
Myojin Pond is about a one-hour walk upstream from Kappa Bridge. Nestled within primeval forest on the grounds of Hotaka Shrine's inner sanctuary, it is a sacred spot filled with a solemn atmosphere. It is divided into three ponds: First Pond, backed by Mount Myojin; Second Pond, where large rocks stand in the water, reminiscent of a Japanese garden; and Third Pond, along the walking path.
Walking through the primeval forest to stand by the pond's edge, a profound silence permeates your being. The reflection of trees on the water's surface creates a beauty that seems frozen in time. At the Okumiya of Hotaka Shrine, enshrined by the pond's shore, faith and gratitude toward the mountains live on.Every October 8th, the annual O-fune Festival is held. Priests dressed in ancient ceremonial robes board a boat and cruise around the ponds to the sound of classical Japanese court music, giving thanks to the gods for the safety of the mountains. It's like stepping into a Heian-period scroll painting.At Kamonji Hut near the pond's entrance, you can sense the legacy of Kamonji Kamijo, the renowned guide who led Weston. The irori hearth room and the monument in the front garden tell its history. A mountaintop
shrine also stands atop Mount Okuhotaka, making this a sacred place where faith and nature converge. Experience the sacredness of Kamikochi at this pond.
Information
- Address
- Azumino Kamikochi Matsumoto City
- Access (Car)
- Approximately 50 minutes by car from Matsumoto IC to Sawando Bus Terminal Transfer to shuttle bus or taxi for about 30 minutes Get off at "Kamikochi Bus Terminal" and walk for about 60 minutes
- Access (Public Transportation)
- From Matsumoto Station, take the Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line to Shinshima Station (approx. 30 min ride). From Shinshima Station, transfer to the shuttle bus (reservation required) or taxi to Kamikochi Bus Terminal (approx. 60 min ride). After disembarking, walk for 60 minutes.
*Note: Business hours and closures are subject to change.
