Mount Fuji and the temples of Kyoto are beautiful, but what if you could experience breathtakingly beautiful autumn scenery in a sacred natural place, untouched by human hands and believed to be home to the gods?

That place is Kamikochi, nestled in the Central Alps of Japan.

In this article, we will introduce the magnificent views of Kamikochi's golden autumn leaves, which purify the souls of visitors, and the "Autumn Bounty of Shinshu," a gift from this pure land. Experience the power of nature and the profound depths of Japanese culture that has cherished its blessings on this journey.

The Land Where the Gods Descend: Kamikochi's Golden Autumn

Kamikochi is a scenic mountain area in Nagano Prefecture, located at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters. Private cars are restricted throughout the year, and the natural environment is strictly protected, preserving the natural beauty of Japan's mountains. As the name "Kamikochi" (place where the gods descend) suggests, it was once said to be a place where the gods descended.

Best season: The golden glow of the larch trees

The peak of autumn foliage in Kamikochi is usually from early to mid-October. During this time, the main attraction is a special tree that is different from those seen in other famous autumn foliage spots in Japan.

It's larch.

• Deciduous conifer: Larch is the only Japanese conifer that loses its leaves in autumn, making it a deciduous conifer.

• A stunning golden landscape: In October, the needle-like leaves of the larch trees turn a brilliant golden color. With the blue sky and the gray of the majestic mountains as a backdrop, the entire mountain slopes sparkle in the sunlight, creating a truly "golden carpet"-like scene.

The golden autumn leaves of these larch trees are the unique autumn scenery that most impresses visitors to Kamikochi.

The view from Kappa Bridge, the symbol of Kamikochi

Kappa Bridge is the gateway to Kamikochi and its most famous photo spot.

• A crossroads with a spectacular view: From the top of this wooden suspension bridge, you can enjoy a panoramic view that symbolizes all of Kamikochi: the clear Azusa River that flows through Kamikochi, the Hotaka mountain range, a symbol of the Japanese Alps, towering across the bridge, and the golden larch forests that stretch out on both banks.

• The blue of the Azusa River: The Azusa River, which originates from the melting snow of the Hotaka mountain range, is extremely clear and has a color close to cobalt blue. The contrast between the pure blue of the water and the fiery gold of the larch trees is so fantastically beautiful that it seems unreal.

Hike along the Azusa River and discover the wonders of nature

Kamikochi is beautiful enough just by arriving by bus and seeing the Kappa Bridge, but to truly experience its charm, we recommend hiking along the Azusa River. Most of the trails are flat, so even if you don't have hiking boots, you can easily explore the area as long as you're wearing comfortable walking shoes.

1. Mysterious Lake "Taisho Pond"

Taisho Pond is about an hour's walk from Kappa Bridge, or a short bus ride back.

• A product of history: Taisho Pond is a natural pond formed when mudflows blocked the Azusa River after the nearby Mount Yake erupted in 1915.

• Dead trees: The unique sight of the dead, white trees standing in the water of the pond creates a mystical atmosphere. In particular, the early morning mist that rolls in creates a fantastical scene that resembles a sumi-e painting, captivating many photographers. Autumn mornings, when the golden color of the larch trees is reflected on the lake's surface, offer a quiet, moving experience that is perfect for starting the day.

2. The source of clear water, Myojin Pond

After walking upstream from Kappa Bridge for about an hour, you will arrive at the tranquil Myojin Pond.

• Myojin Pond, a sacred place at Hotaka Shrine , is a pond located within the grounds of the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine and has been considered a sacred place in the area. The water's surface is as calm as a mirror, clearly reflecting the surrounding trees and mountains.

• Power spot: On the shore of the pond, there is a solemn shrine that makes use of natural formations, where you can feel the spirit of nature worship in Japanese Shinto. If you take a deep breath here, you will feel as if the pure air of Kamikochi permeates your entire body and your mind is cleansed.

Blessings of the Mountains and Culture: Savoring the Autumn Bounty of Shinshu

After enjoying the pure nature, try the rich autumn flavors of Nagano Prefecture, where Kamikochi is located, or Shinshu. Shinshu is surrounded by mountains and has a unique food culture.

1. "Shinshu Soba" with its mellow aroma

When you think of Shinshu, the first thing that comes to mind is "Shinshu soba."

• Buckwheat flavor: The climate of Shinshu, with its large temperature difference between day and night, is ideal for growing buckwheat. "Shin soba," harvested in autumn, is particularly fragrant and flavorful.

• Eating culture: Soba is eaten cold as "zaru soba" or hot as "kake soba." In particular, the simple "zaru soba" can be enjoyed with flavorful broth and condiments such as wasabi and green onions, allowing you to fully enjoy the original flavor of soba. This is part of Japan's delicate food culture.

Please also check out "Tasting Shinshu Soba in Nagano: A Journey Through the Aroma and History of Soba " ▼▼

2. The kings of autumn flavors: mushrooms and wild vegetables

In the areas surrounding Kamikochi, especially Matsumoto and Azumino, there is an abundance of noko in autumn.

• The taste of wild mushrooms: Wild mushrooms such as maitake, shimeji, and nameko have a deep aroma and flavor that cannot be found in cultivated mushrooms. Dishes made by simmering these mushrooms in local soy sauce and dashi stock offer the ultimate taste of the bounty of the mountains.

• Combination with Shinshu beef: Enjoy sukiyaki or steak with locally produced high-quality Shinshu beef, along with mushrooms and local autumn vegetables, for an exceptionally luxurious experience.

3. The warmth of sake and oyaki

On cold autumn nights, a glass of sake from Shinshu will warm you up. Nagano Prefecture is known for producing high-quality sake thanks to its pure water and cool climate.

Another recommended local dish is oyaki.

• Oyaki: Oyaki is a type of dough made from wheat or buckwheat flour, wrapped around a filling of vegetables such as Nozawana (green mustard greens), mushrooms, or eggplant, and then baked or steamed. The crispy outside and chewy inside, along with the simple flavor of the vegetables, give you a sense of the wisdom of traditional Japanese life.

Please also check out "What is Nagano's local B-class gourmet food, Oyaki? Introducing its characteristics and history! " ▼▼

Location of Nagano

summary

A trip to Kamikochi is not just about seeing spectacular views, but also about feeling respect for Japan's nature, which has been carefully protected as the "place where the gods descend."

Shining golden larch forests, the crystal clear Azusa River, and Shinshu soba noodles and mushrooms grown in the pure water and air.

This special autumn experience will leave you feeling deeply at peace and deeply moved. Come and visit this sacred place of beautiful autumn in Japan.