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  • 2025.10.07

Tokyo to Hakuba Travel Options 2025-2026

The ski season in Hakuba this year is from Dec 2025 ~ April 2026. There are three ways to reach Hakuba from Tokyo this winter season: express train, shinkansen, and highway bus. Most transportation requires you to make a transfer and take a shuttle bus to the ski grounds around Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. In the winter (around December), these shuttle buses will require a reservation especially during busy seasons, so please plan ahead.

1. Train (using the Shinkansen or Azusa Express)
2. Direct bus
3. Bus (with a transfer)

Comparison Chart

The closest station to the ski slopes is Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. If you get off at Hakuba Station, you can either walk 35~40 minutes or take the shuttle bus to the slopes. The following times include getting to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal.

Means of TransportationTime RequiredNumber of TransfersTotal CostLuggage StorageBoarding Area
Shinkansen

Online Reservation		3hrs 1 times11,640 yenLimitedTokyo Station
Platform 20 & 23 (headed for Nagano Station)
Azusa Limited Express
(once a day)
Online Reservation		3hrs 35mins 1 time8,410 yenLimited Shinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(direct train to Hakuba St. is at 8AM only)
Azusa Express
Online Reservation		4hrs ~ 4hrs 20mins3 times8,150 yenLimitedShinjuku Station
Platform 9 & 10
(headed for Matsumoto Station)
Direct Highway Bus

Online Reservation		5hrs 13mins0 times5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
Highway bus
Online Reservation		5 hours1 times7,700 yen ~ 8,600 yenGuaranteedShinjuku Bus Terminal (4th floor)
or
Ikebukuro Station East Exit

Boarding points for the shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal:
• Nagano Station → Hakuba Happo Station: boarding area (Bus stop #26 at the East Exit)
• Matsumoto Station → Hakuba Happo Station: TBA Mid-November

Different Transportation from Tokyo to Hakuba

■Shinkansen

The fastest way to reach Hakuba is by boarding the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station and transferring at Nagano Station. Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal is the closest station to the slopes, so a transfer from Nagano Station via a shuttle bus is necessary. Please note that the shuttle bus will require reservations in the winter which can be made: here

① Tokyo Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8140 yen + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs
Transfers: 1

Hakuba Shinkansen Reservation

■Train

The Azusa Limited Express (which departs only once a day) and the Azusa Express depart at Shinjuku Station and stops at Matsumoto Station. From Matsumoto Station, take the JR Oito Line to Hakuba Station and then a local bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal. The JR Oita Line runs once an hour. Alternatively there is a shuttle bus run by Alpico Group from the slopes, but times are TBD until mid November.


①Shinjuku Station (Azusa Express) → Matsumoto Station → (JR Oito Line) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 7790 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 4hrs ~ 4hrs 20 mins
Transfers: 3

Azusa Express Online Reservation

②Shinjuku Station (Limited Express Azusa | One departure a day) → Hakuba Station → (Local Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 8050 yen + 360 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 3hrs 35mins
Transfers: 1

*The Limited Express Azusa departs at 8AM daily and arrives at Hakuba Station at 11:40AM.

Limited Azusa Express Online Reservation

■Direct Bus

The direct highway bus is a cheaper and more convenient option compared to the Azusa train and Shinkansen. Since it’s a direct bus, there are no transfers making the total arrival time potentially faster than the Azusa train if you factor in transferring times. It is also 1,000~3,000 yen cheaper and includes spacious luggage storage for your ski gear.
.
① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Shimano Omachi Station / Hakuba Goryu / Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 5,800 yen ~ 7,000 yen (depending on high season)
Total time: 5hrs 13mins
Transfers: 0

Bus Reservations

■Highway Bus

The regular highway bus requires one transfer (for the shuttle bus to the slopes) and is 40 minutes slower than taking the Azusa Express train, but requires two less transfers. It can also be up to 1,000 yen cheaper depending on the season. You can board from either the Shinjuku Bus Terminal or Ikebukuro Station.

① Shinjuku Bus Terminal → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) → Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

②Ikebukuro Station → (Highway bus) → Nagano Station → (Shuttle Bus) →Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal
Total: 4,200 yen ~ 5,100 yen (depending on high season) + 3500 yen (shuttle bus to Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal)
Total time: 5 hours
Transfers: 1

Bus Reservations

Where to board the highway bus:

Highway buses depart from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku), located directly across Shinjuku Station’s South Exit on the 4th floor. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or online in advance. However, we highly recommend buying the tickets in advance online.

Address: 5 Chome 24-55 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0051, Japan
Opening hours: 6:30 AM ~ 11PM
Waiting room opening hours: 3:30 AM ~ 1 AM (the next day)
Official Website

Direct Bus Reservation
Highway Bus Reservations

Azusa Express Train Additional Information

  • The Limited Express Azusa direct train runs once a day at 8 AM
  • The storage on the Azusa is similar to the shinkansen, and is not always guaranteed
  • Luggage storage is on cars: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12
  • Car 9 is a Green car and requires a special ticket, so do not place your luggage here unless you have a reserved seat
  • Compared to the shinkansen, the Azusa Express train can be a bit shaky, so we recommend the shinkansen or bus for motion sick passengers.


Official website

Direct Night Bus Services

Starting early December, all types of buses increase their frequency during high season. Amongst them is the direct night bus which departs at Shinjuku Bus Terminal around 11PM and arrives in Hakuba around 5AM.

Official website

Other Tips/Advice

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Hakuba is via direct bus due to its guaranteed storage and direct drop-off by the slopes. When it comes to transfers, there may be long lines, so budget to spend extra time waiting. If you are transferring to Hakuba from Nagano or Matsumoto Station, around December shuttle buses to Happo Hakuba Station are necessary and will require a reservation.

Shuttle buses from Hakuba Station to Happo Hakuba Station runs once or twice an hour. If you hold the Hakuba Valley Day Pass, you can ride the shuttle bus an unlimited amount of times between different slopes.

Hakuba Happo Station Shuttle Timetables
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Nagano Station.
-Check here for the official shuttle times between Happo Hakuba Station and Matsumoto Station.


  • 2025.08.13

From Hida Takayama to Matsumoto! A Spectacular Autumn Route – Enjoy the Autumn Foliage at Shin Hotaka Ropeway!

A special experience to enjoy the Japanese Alps in autumn by air!

If you are planning a trip from Hida Takayama to Matsumoto, Shinshu in October, there is one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss– the Shin Hotaka Ropeway. The Shin Hotaka Ropeway is the most popular ropeway in Japan.

The second half of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in all of Japan. It’s a special experience where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Japanese Alps from the air.


The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
Autumn offers the most beautiful scenery of the year. Located at an elevation of 2,156 meters, the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform offers a panoramic view of the Japanese Alps in the brilliant red and golden colors of the autumn leaves.

As the trail rises more than 1,000 meters in elevation from the foot of the mountain to the summit, visitors can enjoy the changes in autumn foliage at different elevation zones. This is a must-visit spot in autumn, where you can enjoy both a breathtaking photo-worthy view and Japanese autumn foliage viewing at the same time.

A trip with a spectacular view starting at the morning market in Takayama

Takayama Morning Market, one of the three major morning markets in Japan

Start your trip with the Takayama morning market. Known as one of the three major morning markets in Japan, the Takayama morning market is a great place to enjoy fresh local finger foods, crafts, and local produce. Taking in the crisp morning air and leisurely browsing the stalls makes for a wonderful start to experiencing traditional Hida life.

Access to Shin Hotaka Ropeway from Takayama

After enjoying the morning market, head to the Shin Hotaka Ropeway from the Takayama Bus Center.
A direct bus service runs to the Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of the first Shin Hotaka Ropeway, arriving at the site in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Traffic information:

Important Note: Due to the extremely crowded fall foliage season, it is strongly recommended to arrive early at the Alpine Bus Center to get in line.

Aerial views on the Shin Hotaka Ropeway

The second part of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in Japan, offering a special experience to enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Northern Alps from the air. The view from the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform at the summit station is breathtaking.
The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.

Ropeway information:

Shinhotaka Ropeway Digital Ticket

You can purchase digital tickets for the Shinhotaka Ropeway, as well as digital tickets combining the Shinhotaka Ropeway with the route bus (free pass) between Takayama/Hirayu Onsen and Shinhotaka Ropeway Station, on your smartphone.

KLOOK, KKDAY

[Attention]
If you come by bus, please leave your large luggage in the coin locker at Shin Hotaka Onsen Station.
The ropeway requires an extra charge for luggage over 6 kg. Luggage tickets are 1,000 yen/piece for round trip.

Shinhotaka Ropeway Coin Locker Information

Since the capacity of the ropeway No. 1 is small (45 passengers), it may take some time to get on the ropeway when it is crowded.
We recommend that you drive to the Shirakabadaira parking lot at the second ropeway stop.
If you use the local bus, only Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of Daiichi Ropeway is available.

Route to Matsumoto

After enjoying the spectacular autumn scenery of the Japanese Alps, head to Matsumoto, a city of history and culture. For transportation, you will need to change buses at the Hirayu Bus Terminal.

Travel Routes and Fees

  1. Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal
    • Fare: 910 yen
  2. Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Bus Terminal

Total cost of taking public transportation on your own

  • Takayama Bus Center → Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station): 2,200 yen
  • Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Ropeway 1 + Ropeway 2) round trip: 3,800 yen
  • Shin Hotaka Ropeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal: 910 yen
  • Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Bus Terminal: 2,800 yen * Reservations required

Total travel expenses: 9,710 yen

If you bring luggage weighing 6 kg or more onto the ropeway, you will be charged a luggage ticket (1,000 yen per piece) or a coin locker fee.

The base of Shinhotaka Ropeway

Around early October, the lines for Shinhotaka ropeway were not long at all, and almost everyone who lined up could board without waiting for the next shuttle.

Although the foliage at the bottom of the ropeway was still green, as you step out to the 1st station ropeway, suddenly the season completely changes from summer to fall! Though not fully developed, the vibrant fall leaves along with the crystal clear skies looked like a postcard and almost unreal.

Shirakabadaira Station (Ropeway 1)

Just one year ago, Shirakabadaira Station was renovated to include a new and stylish gift shop, bakery, and dining area. At the bread store, they sell a variety of freshly baked breads, craft drinks (including an amusing curry and melon bread cider), gelato, and other local specialties.

After walking around and doing some light souvenir shopping, you can leisurely relax or take a stroll around the grounds in time for the gondola which arrives twice an hour. Depending on high winds or other weather aliments, the gondola usage may be postponed.

Alpscape Observation Deck and Itadaki no Mori

Finally making it to the second ropeway exit, you will have to walk a few flights of stairs until reaching the observation deck. The scenery of the mountains from the second ropeway is completely different from the base of the ropeway and was completely colorful. The view especially from Itadaki no Mori is the best as you can get a very clear view of the autumn foliage.


Around the station are also several hiking trails along with trendy restaurants, cafes, and places to sit and rest. Its a perfect place to just relax and stare into the distance. The temperature is not too cold (around 15C) and is very comfortable around this time.

Matsumoto Castle at Night (Fall)

While Matsumoto Castle is stunning during the day due to the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, the night time view is arguably even more breathtaking. Every night from sundown until 10PM, Matsumoto Castle is lit up creating a mesmerizing glowing image. During special holidays they also display more colorful light shows on the castle walls.

Matsumoto Light Up Hours: ~6PM to 10PM

How to Enjoy Matsumoto

Matsumoto has many attractions and gorgeous scenic spots located beyond Matsumoto Castle. Areas such as Happo Pond, Hakuba, and Narai-juku are all breathtaking view points enjoyed by locals and travelers alike.

More info

Takayama to Matsumoto Timetable

If you are traveling on your own from Takayama to Matsumoto, up to two transfers by highway bus may be necessary. Since there are no trains connecting the two areas, your only options other than renting a car is by taking the bus. The direct bus to Matsumoto departs from Hirayu Bus Terminal, a bus terminal 1 hour from Takayama City proper.

Takayama Nohi Bus Center → Hirayu Bus Terminal [times]: 6:00, 7:00, 7;40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40
Total price: 1600 yen
*For the Takayama to Hirayu bus, you will need to buy a ticket in person at Takayama Nohi Bus Center (open from 6:10 AM).



Hirayu Bus Terminal → Matsumoto Station [times]: 7:50, 11:50, 1:50, 2:50, 4:50
Total price: 2,800 yen
*Buses from Hirayu Bus Terminal to Matsumoto Station all require a reservation in advance.

Hirayu ⇄ Matsumoto Bus

Summary

A trip from Takayama to Matsumoto is a special route that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of autumn in Japan. The aerial walk on the Shin Hotaka ropeway is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether it be going on your own or going via a convenient bus tour, take time to enjoy this wonderful autumn scenic route according to your travel style.

Google Map (Takayama – Shin Hotaka Ropeway – Matsumoto) Location


Google Map (Takayama Station→Shin Hotaka Ropeway)


Google Map (Shin Hotaka Lowway→Hirayu Bus Terminal)

Google Map (Hirayu Bus Terminal→Matsumoto Bus Terminal)

  • 2025.08.13

If you come to Japan in October, don’t miss this area! Autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the Autumn Takayama Festival

Why is the Nagano and Gifu area the best place to travel to Japan in October?　

October is the most beautiful season in Japan for autumn foliage. The Kamikochi area in Nagano Prefecture and the Takayama area in Gifu Prefecture in particular are ideal destinations for foreign travelers who want to both enjoy jaw dropping autumn scenery and authentic traditional Japanese culture at the Takayama Autumn Festival.

Down below, we’ll introduce a 3-day model plan that starts with historical exploration in Matsumoto City, followed by breathtaking autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the traditional autumn Takayama Festival (held on Thursday and Friday, October 9th and 10th, 2025).

A Model Plan for Enjoying Spectacular Autumn Scenery and Cultural Experiences in 3 Days

Matsumoto, Kamikochi and the Takayama Festival in Autumn Foliage!

Day 1: October 7th (Tuesday) – Enjoy history and art in Matsumoto

Morning: Explore Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure

Experience firsthand the history of Japan from the Warring States Period to the present day.

Visit the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of the 12 existing castle towers in Japan, designated as a National Treasure.

Google Map

Afternoon: Visit the World of Yayoi Kusama at Matsumoto City Museum of Art

The exterior of the museum also features polka dots designed by Yayoi Kusama and is a popular photo spot.

Immerse yourself in the world of world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama in her hometown of Matsumoto, Japan.

Google Map

Evening: Enjoy Matsumoto’s local delicacies

  • Taste Nagano’s local cuisine such as Shinshu soba noodles and Sanzokuyaki
  • Stay at a hotel in Matsumoto City

Day 2: October 8th (Wed) – Spectacular view of autumn leaves in Kamikochi and transfer to Takayama

Early morning: Departure from Matsumoto to Kamikochi

There are two ways to access Kamikochi: by public transportation or on your own

(1) Railroad + local bus
Feature: High frequency, access by train and local buses , Matsumoto Station→Shinshimashima Station: Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line
(about 30 minutes, 710 yen)
From Shinnimashima Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus
(about 1 hour, 3,000 yen)
Buses are available by reservation only.
＞ Details & Reservations

or

Direct route bus
Feature: Easy, direct route bus access
Matsumoto Bus Terminal→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus
(5:30 and 10:15 departures, 4,450 yen)
　＞ Details & Reservations

Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line (CAUTION)
Caution (1)
The Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line cannot be boarded with IC cards. Please purchase a ticket at Matsumoto Station.

Caution (2)
The location of the ticket vending machines at Matsumoto Station is the same as for the JR line. Tickets for the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line can be purchased at the two ticket vending machines on the left. Please pay with cash or a transportation system IC card.
Credit cards are not accepted.

Caution (3)
The ticket gates at Matsumoto Station are the same as for the JR line. After passing through the ticket gate, please go to “Line 7” on the right side. Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line is on platform 7.

Kamikochi Luggage Information
　Approximate fees (one day): small 350 yen, medium 400 yen, large 500 yen, extra large 600 yen
　*Small: about 10 liters, extra large: about 60 liters

Morning – Afternoon: Enjoy the spectacular autumn scenery at Kamikochi

  • Spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range from Kappa Bridge
  • Take a walk to Taisho Pond and enjoy the autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake.
  • Enjoy the clean air and beautiful nature in a highland resort at an altitude of 1,500 meters

Kamikochi Experience on Oct.8th

The temperature in Matsumoto City on Oct.8th was 20°C (Kōtōchi felt a bit chilly, with a perceived temperature of around 15°C to 20°C), and the weather was cloudy turning to clear. Since it had rained the day before, the weather was perfect for exploring.

There are no restrooms from Taisho Pond to the next area, Tashiro Bridge, so I recommend using the facilities here first. The restroom here operates on a tip system. The tips are used for restroom maintenance and preserving Kamikochi’s natural environment, so the bathrooms were very clean!

Some pictures of Taisho Pond in early October.

Stepping off the bus, a breathtaking view immediately unfolded before my eyes. Though it is still slightly too early for peak autumn colors, the mirror like lake reflecting the green trees felt truly magical. Many tourists were taking pictures and videos around the area making me realize how truly international Kamikochi has become.

After taking a lot of pictures, I headed to the next destination: Tashiro Pond!

From Taisho Pond, I began my hike along a well-maintained wooden path following the Azusa River. The path is relatively flat and easy to walk, so even beginners can feel at ease. Looking down at the beautiful spring water at my feet, I spotted Iwana (Char) swimming!

Iwana are said to inhabit only areas with excellent water quality, which speaking volumes about Kamikochi’s water. Some were so large I mistook them for carp at first!

Also, while walking along the forest road, you’ll find areas where fallen trees remain untouched.
This is to preserve the natural landscape; apparently, they deliberately avoid human intervention unless the trees pose a hazard, such as blocking the walking path.

On the pathway in the forest, you’ll find a lot of areas where fallen trees have remained untouched. Apparently this is to preserve the natural landscape. The workers at Kamikochi seem to deliberately avoid intervening with the surrounding nature unless it poses as a hazard.

After about a 25 minute walk from Taisho Pond, you arrive at Tashiro Pond. (Unfortunately, I couldn’t get very good photos this time…) It’s a quiet, mystical place where water bubbles up from the bottom of the shallow pond.

Another 15-minute walk brings you to Tashiro Bridge, where a bench provided the perfect spot to rest.
The view of the Hotaka Range from Tashiro Bridge is absolutely stunning. It was just a little further until we reached todays goal, Kappa Bridge.


The path from Tashiro Bridge to Kappabashi is full of interesting things to see. The clear stream flows directly next you, so you can really feel the nature of the area. While walking, I spotted a mushroom that looked like it could come straight out of Super Mario! It was so cute, I just had to take a picture!

Along the way, I came across the monument to Walter Weston (the Weston Monument), the British missionary who introduced modern mountaineering to Japan and brought the name “Japanese Alps” to the world. It made me reflect on the history of the area.

After about a 30-minute walk, I finally reached Kamikochi’s iconic Kappa Bridge! The view of the Hotaka Mountain Range from Kappa Bridge was breathtakingly beautiful, and surpassed any scenery I’ve seen today by far!

There are shops around the bridge selling popular soft serve ice cream and beer, making it the perfect treat while enjoying the stunning views!

Afternoon: Transfer from Kamikochi to Hida Takayama

  1. Kamikochi→Hirayu Bus Terminal (20-30 min., 1,500 yen)
  2. Enjoy Hida beef croquettes and other local delicacies at Hirayu Bus Terminal
  3. Hirayu Bus Terminal→Takayama Bus Center (about 1 hour, 1,600 yen)

Evening: Taste the flavors of Hida in Takayama

  • Taste Hida beef steaks, Takayama ramen, and other specialties of the Hida region
  • The atmosphere of the old town raises expectations for tomorrow’s festivities.

Day 3: October 9 (Thursday) – The Autumn Takayama Festival has finally arrived!

All day: Experience the traditional Takayama Festival

The Takayama Festival is one of the “Three Great Beautiful Festivals of Japan” along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama. The October festival is called the “Hachiman Festival” and features the following attractions:

  • Gorgeous yatai (floats) being pulled around
  • Karakuri Dedication: Traditional performing arts featuring elaborate puppets dancing
  • Yoimatsuri: Fantastic night scenery with lanterns lit
  • Shopping for local products at morning markets

Takayama 2025 Autumn Festival Schedule

Spanning two days, the Takayama October Festival includes the display of festival floats around Sakurayama Shrine, the local’s procession to the local shrine, two marionette shows, and finally the grand finale at night time where all floats are lit and pulled throughout the town. The night time procession is held only on October 9th.

October 9th:
Festival Float Display: 9AM~5PM [Location: here]
Marionette Show: 12PM~12:20PM (1st show), 2PM~2:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here]
Shrine Procession: 1:30PM ~ 3:30PM
Night Time Float Procession: 6:15PM ~ 8:30PM

October 10th:
Festival Float Display: 9AM~4PM [Location: here]
Marionette Show: 11PM~11:20PM (1st show), 1PM~1:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here]
Shrine Procession: 8:30PM ~ 12:30PM , 1:30PM ~ 4PM

Marionette Locations:
Each float has a unique performance. For example, the Shakkyo marionette includes a lion dance and lion transformation while the Ryujin marionette includes a blast of confetti. On the 9th and 10th, the Hoteidai Float will put on the show two times a day in front of Sakurayama Shrine.

Post-Trip Options

After enjoying the Takayama Festival, you can continue your journey by following these routes:

  1. To Kyoto and Osaka area via Nagoya
  2. Kanazawa and Hokuriku area via Shirakawa-go: You can also enjoy the World Heritage Site of Gassho-Zukuri Village.

Fares for public transportation from Matsumoto to Takayama

For general methods:

  • Matsumoto→Shinshimashima→Kamikochi： 3,710 yen
  • Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen (transfer set ticket)
  • Total: 6,710 yen

When using the direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi:

  • Matsumoto→Kamikochi： 4,450 yen
  • Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen
  • Total: 7,450 yen

Points to note when making reservations

  • Reservations are required for buses to Kamikochi. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the fall foliage season when the buses are crowded!
  • Accommodations in Takayama are also crowded during the festival, so advance reservations are required!
  • Don’t forget to bring warm clothes as it gets cold in the mornings and evenings in Kamikochi in October.

Summary:


The Nagano and Gifu areas in October are the best destinations for foreign tourists to experience both the beauty of Japanese autumn and traditional culture. The spectacular view of Kamikochi with its autumn leaves and the solemnity of the Takayama Festival with a history of over 400 years, will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Please take this opportunity to experience the charm of autumn in Japan to your heart’s content!

Tour reservations and more information:

Location of Matsumoto – Kamikochi – Takayama
Google Map (Matsumoto Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal)

Google Map (Kamikochi Bus Terminal→Takayama Station)

Matsumoto/ Kamikochi/ Takayama Bus Tour

  • 2025.02.28

Kamikochi Opening Date: Spring 2025

Topic: Kamikochi Spring Forecast/ Kamikochi Reopening Date

How to get to Kamikochi by bus:

Boarding AreaTime Taken Price (one way/ adults)Reservation Site
Tokyo (Shinjuku Station)~5 hours8,000 yenDirect bus
Takayama (Nohi Bus Center)~1hr 25 mins3,000 yenDirect bus
Takayama (Hirayu Bus Terminal)~25 mins1,500 yenDirect bus
Matsumoto (Matsumoto Bus Terminal)~2 hours4,000 yenDirect bus
*Note: All bus services resume reservations when the park opens again. Some reservations cannot be made until March or April.
*If you are departing from Takayama, you must buy the ticket for the shuttle bus in person.
Bus Reservation Site/ Information

Money Hack from Tokyo

If you are planning to do a round trip journey from Tokyo, there is actually a cheaper way to get to Kamikochi if you make one transfer via bus. It can save you up to 10,000 yen.

Read More

What to do in Kamikochi’s Green Season:

Kamikochi is one of the most popular national parks in all of Japan, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture. Annually, visitors flock to the area to enjoy the park’s pristine clear waters, fresh air, and hiking routes. Kamikochi can be reached in around 5 hours by bus from Tokyo and 1 hour by bus from central Takayama. Once a year the park closes during the winter season and reopens in spring due to the high amounts of snow. Spring in Kamikochi can still be a bit cool, but flowers and greenery start to take light again. Kamikochi is beautiful year-round, but spring offers unique sights that set it apart from other seasons.

Enjoy Nirinso Flowers Blooming

In Kamikochi there is a famous wildflower which blooms in Spring. The Nirinso is a small, delicate flower that blooms in fields around Kamikochi. You can spot these flowers by taking only a five minute walk from Kappa Bridge, the main photo spot in Kamikochi, or a 10 minute walk from the bus parking lot to Konashidaira Campground.

Nirinso

Nirinso is a wildflower that is part of the buttercup flower family, and is native to Japan and commonly found in the woodlands. The flowers can be spotted at Konashidaira Campground, located next to Kappa Bridge, the main bridge in Kamikochi and bloom starting May.

Field of Wild Nirinso in Kamikochi

Enjoy Wildlife Make Their Return

If you’re a fan of birdwatching, in spring, many birds wake from their hibernation and can be seen all around the park. Other wildlife such as monkeys, ducks and weasels can also be seen all around the park as they make their return for spring.

Wild Birds

The Kamikochi area has over 100 variety of birds. Some varieties include the Grey Wagtail, Brown Dipper, Bush Warbler, and Pygmy Woodpecker.

Tips for Spring in Kamikochi:


Cold Temperatures:
Although it is spring, temperatures in Kamikochi can still be quite cold especially during early April. It is advisable to wear thermals and prepare for some snow to still be on the ground. There also instances where you can still see snow on the mountains or on the paths during early spring.

Some Hiking Routes in Kamikochi:

Route
(from Parking Lot)		 Time Taken (one way/way up)
Taisho Pond Trail1 hour
Mt.Yakedake3 hours
Karasawa Hutte5 hours

Opening dates:

Kamikochi reopens April 17th, 2025.

Hotels on the premises will not be opened until later in the month. While day trips are possible, if you truly want to enjoy the Japanese Alps, we recommend booking a hotel on the premises or staying in the nearby onsen area, Okuhida or in Takayama City so you can take your time in Kamikochi. For those with more time on their hands, we recommend staying 2 or more days as the area has many breathtaking hiking routes spread throughout the Nagano and Gifu regions. Okuhida also offers many ryokan (Japanese Inn) and onsen (hot spring bathing) for nature lovers. Buses from Okuhida (Hirayu Bus Terminal) to Kamikochi have resumed on the 17th.

Nearby Attractions/ Hiking Routes


Mt.Norikura

Mt.Norikura is the highest mountain that can be reached by bus (and bicycle!). The mountain is only a 1 1/2 hours away by bus from Kamikochi. To get here, depart from Hirayu Bus Terminal for Honokidaira Bus Terminal. From Honokidaira Bus Terminal, there are buses once an hour that take you to Mt. Norikura.


Okuhida Onsengo

Okuhida Onsengo is a onsen resort area 20 minutes from Kamikochi. Some popular hiking routes include: Mt.Kasagatake, Mt.Yake, and Nishihotakadake.