Program Overview
- Hike the iconic route from Kamikochi to Karasawa, one of Japan’s most celebrated alpine trails
- Extended stay in Kamikochi, with accommodation in a scenic mountain hotel near Kappa Bridge
- Four days of leisurely trekking to fully immerse yourself in nature
A 4-Day Journey from Kamikochi to Karasawa ― Walking the Treasure of the Japanese Alps
This special mountain trip takes you from Kamikochi to Karasawa, a route acclaimed as one of Japan’s most beautiful alpine areas. Over four days, accompanied by a certified Japan Mountaineering Association guide, you will enjoy a safe and fulfilling adventure.
Day 1: Arrive in Kamikochi and warm up with a gentle hike. Stroll along the Azusa River to Tokusawa campsite, surrounded by lush green meadows.
Day 2: Begin the real ascent, climbing through pristine forests toward Karasawa. The stunning cirque and towering peaks are the highlight of the trip.
Day 3: Descend from Karasawa back to Kamikochi. Stay at a popular hotel by Kappa Bridge, relax in the hot spring, and enjoy a French full-course dinner.
Day 4: Leisurely explore Kamikochi before departure, savoring the clear streams and alpine scenery.
Tour Highlights
Experience both Kamikochi and Karasawa, two of Japan’s most iconic alpine destinations
Guided by certified Japan Mountaineering Association professionals
Ample time to enjoy Kamikochi and the Kappa Bridge area
Relax with French cuisine and hot springs at the end of the trek
Itinerary
Schedule
| Day 1 | Meet at Matsumoto Station 8:00 → Kamikochi 9:30 → Tokusawa 12:00 (overnight at Tokusawa campsite) |
| Day2 | Depart Tokusawa 6:00 → Arrive at Karasawa Cirque 12:00 (overnight at Karasawa) |
| Day3 | Depart Karasawa 8:00 → Tokusawa 11:00 → Kappa Bridge 14:00 → Hotel Shirakabaso (overnight) |
| Day4 | Free time exploring Kamikochi area → Depart Kamikochi Bus Terminal 12:00 → Matsumoto Station 13:30 (tour ends) |
Access map
course map
Gallery
Special Advisor to This Tour
Kazuya Nakajima ― Nickname: Kazubō
Watercolor painter and photographer. Former travel industry professional. Featured on NHK’s popular program Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, he has long been deeply connected with nature and mountaineering.
For more than 10 years, he has embarked on annual expeditions to Alaska, captivated by its untouched wilderness. His adventures include canoe journeys across the Arctic Ocean and the glacial seas of Southeast Alaska. These experiences are reflected in his artwork and photography, sharing the beauty of nature with many.
He is also a skilled chainsaw artist, able to create wooden works on the spot in the forest. Humble and unpretentious, his skill and creativity captivate those around him.
Together with his wife Kumiko, who runs the nature-based kindergarten Mori no Yōchien Piccolo, they continue activities that connect people with nature and community.
Tour overview
| Tour Duration | 3 nights, 4 day |
| Participation Requirements | Participants must have proper equipment (gear check before departure; those who do not meet standards cannot join). Participants must have sufficient fitness and mountaineering experience (pre-tour interviews will be conducted; applications may be declined based on responses). Must respect the severity of nature and approach with humility. Must have a cooperative and positive attitude. Must be in good health. Pre-departure medical disclosure required. Please check if applicable: ◆ Cardiovascular disease ◆ Respiratory disease ◆ Hypertension ◆ Diabetes ◆ Digestive disorders ◆ Other chronic illnesses Applications will only be accepted if your physician has not prohibited mountaineering or strenuous activities. A separate PDF link or webpage will be provided for detailed climbing level information. |
| Eligible Age Range | Ages 16 to 70 (children must be accompanied by a parent) |
| Minimum / Maximum Participants | Bookings accepted from 1 person. For larger groups, please contact us. |
| Accommodation | Hotel Shirakabaso (plus camping) |
| Meals | Meals included at campsites; breakfast and dinner included at Hotel Shirakabaso |
| Tour Escort / Guide | Certified guide(s) from the Japan Mountaineering Association |
| Application Deadline & Confirmation | At least 30 days prior to departure |
| Included in the Tour Price | Guide fee, meals, accommodation, campsite usage fees, camping equipment, round-trip transportation to/from Matsumoto Station |
| Not Included in the Tour Price | Personal expenses, travel insurance |
| Cancellation Policy | 30 to 20 days prior: 30% 19 to 14 days prior: 40% 13 to 3 days prior: 50% 2 days prior to departure / same day: 100% No contact: 100% |
| Important Booking Information | Physical Fitness Level Char |
Tour Price
Adult (18 years and above): ¥250,000
Child (7–12 years): ¥110,000
Please read the following before applying:
For participation in this event, our company will not send pamphlets or printed documents (such as explanatory sheets or contract documents). All information regarding the event will be provided on this website.
Before submitting your application, you are required to print out or download this page and the “Travel Terms and Conditions.”
Have you confirmed item (1) and printed out or downloaded item (2)?
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