A spectacular view that looks just like a painting! How to enjoy Kamikochi to the fullest

I had no idea there was such a beautiful place in Japan!

Kamikochi in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, is a place that makes you think so.

This mountain resort, located at an altitude of approximately 1,500m, is an attractive spot with magnificent views of the Northern Alps and crystal clear streams.

Particularly popular are the hiking trails that even beginners can enjoy and the picturesque scenery that looks like a painting. Photogenic scenery spreads out everywhere, including the Kappa Bridge and Taisho Pond, which are representative of Kamikochi.

Changes with the Seasons

Kamikochi shows a completely different side to you depending on the season you visit.

In spring, the contrast between the snow-capped mountains of the Northern Alps and the fresh greenery is refreshing, and the air is crisp and clean.

Because of its high altitude, it is cool even in summer, and its crystal clear, blue stream makes it an ideal summer getaway.

In autumn, the mountains are painted golden with larch trees, and morning frost creates a fantastical landscape.

The best thing about Kamikochi is that no matter how many times you visit, you can always discover new attractions.

The most recommended season is from mid-May to June. In Japan, Golden Week is a long holiday that runs from the end of April to the first week of May, so this is a time when there are a lot of tourists.

However, once the long weekend is over, fewer people will visit and you will be able to enjoy the tranquil Kamikochi. You are in the middle of nature, so we recommend that you make the most of the quiet and beautiful nature.

A special Kamikochi experience that you can only experience if you stay overnight!

Recently, Kamikochi has become increasingly popular both in Japan and abroad, with the number of visitors increasing dramatically.

Day trippers tend to be in high numbers between 10am and 4pm, so to enjoy Kamikochi's unique tranquility and mystical atmosphere, it's best to stay overnight.

There are three benefits to staying here:

It's hard to experience these views on a day trip.

Another great attraction is that by staying overnight you are not tied down by time and can enjoy sightseeing at your own pace .

You can start your hike early in the morning and if the weather is bad, you can always try again the next day.

Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel: Surrounded by silence and spectacular views

A recommended place to stay in Kamikochi is the Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel, which was renovated in June 2024.

The charm of this hotel is that it has a special feeling that only a small inn can offer, which is different from large-scale resort hotels.

There are only 23 rooms. Because it is a small hotel, you can enjoy attentive hospitality in a quiet and calm atmosphere. The rooms have an exquisite balance of natural wood warmth and modern design. From the large windows, you can see the Azusa River and the ridge of Mt. Rohyaku, just like a landscape painting.

It's just the right distance to be a base for sightseeing.

It was recently renovated and reopened in 2023, and the guest rooms are now larger than before, allowing you to relax in a more spacious environment.

The hotel is also in a great location. The Azusa River is right in front of you, the Hotaka mountain range is to the left, and Mount Yakedake is to the right.

It is a 20-25 minute walk from Kappa Bridge, the symbol of Kamikochi, and a 10 minute walk from the nearest bus stop.

Casual luxury and comfortable relaxation space

Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel is different from formal luxury hotels, and is characterized by a casual, warm, and luxurious atmosphere. The staff are friendly, and the hotel has a homey atmosphere, like a hideaway in the mountains.

Lobby : An open space where you can relax and read or chat. A variety of beverages are available at the corner after check-in and check-out.

Bar : Enjoy local wines and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.

Relax your body and mind in natural hot springs

There are only two accommodations in Kamikochi where you can enjoy natural hot springs, one of which is the Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel.

The hotel also features an open-air bath with 100% natural hot spring water, giving you a sense of openness.

With this latest renovation, you can now enjoy the view of the majestic mountains while soaking in the bathtub in your room. You can forget the fatigue of everyday life and enjoy a truly relaxing and soothing time.

Enjoy authentic French cuisine and the flavors of Shinshu

Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel's accommodation plan includes two meals.

For dinner, you can enjoy authentic French cuisine made with plenty of local ingredients. Among the dishes are the consommé soup, which has been simmered for 36 hours, and the juicy roast beef, which is exquisite. "It's French, but it's full of Shinshu flavor!", attracting many visitors.

Breakfast is a Japanese and Western buffet style.

They have a wide range of menu items, including local Shinshu dishes such as "Touji Soba" and "Oyaki," healthy smoothies, and freshly baked bread. "Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel" is not just a place to stay, but a place to spend special time.

Surrounded by beautiful nature, you can enjoy a luxurious time in a comfortable and relaxing space, with the finest hot springs and delicious food. Why not escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time "treating yourself"?

Accommodation

• Accommodation fee: 1 night with 2 meals from 42,000 yen (varies depending on the season)

• Check-in/Check-out: 15:00/10:00

• Access: 10 minutes walk from Imperial Hotel bus stop

Click here to make a reservation at Kamikochi Lemeiesta Hotel

Click here for access information to Kamikochi