Wild monkeys in Kamikochi

Kamikochi is a beautiful mountain resort at the base of Mt. Hotaka with a limpid stream of the Azusa River in the Chubu Sangaku (Central Mountains) National Park.  These days, with beautiful fresh green leaves, many people visit there, including those from overseas.  You can enjoy Kamikochi by walking and trekking if you take a one-day trip.

Several groups of wild monkeys live here. They often come around the paths along the Azusa River, making the observers enjoy themselves.  Lovely baby monkeys were born in Spring and are now clinging to their mothers.

Private cars are prohibited; only buses and taxis can enter.
For your convenience, Lampya offers direct private transportation from your accommodation in Matsumoto, Nagano, and other locations to Kamikochi.  This service ensures a hassle-free journey, allowing you to focus on the beauty of your surroundings

Cedar Tree Path to Togakushi Okusha

Togakushi is located north of Nagano City and takes about an hour by bus from Nagano Station.

The approach to the shrine is approximately two kilometers long, having a red gate with thatched roof named Zuishinmon (随神門) in the middle of the path. This is followed by giant cedar trees over 400 years old along the road on both sides, which are a part of a forest reserve designated as a natural monument.

Okusha Shrine is popular not only in summer but also in winter,  many people visit there between skiing trips. However, if you visit in winter, we recommend you bring warm shoes instead of sneakers.

 

 

 

 

There are four other attractive shrines in Togakushi, and some people make it a goal to visit all of them, known as the “Five Shrine Tour.” (五社巡り Gosya Meguri)

 

Nakasendo walking

On sunny day of May, I walked Nakasendo trail from Yabuhara-jyuku to Narai-jyuku. I just wanted to walk along Torii Pass, which is popular with foreigners.

The Nakasendo trail is the old mountain route that connects Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period (1603-1867).

The Torii Pass that I walked this time was one of the most challenging places for travelers now and then. Moreover, in the past people used to cross this  mountain pass in straw sandals instead of sneakers.

In fact, it was difficult for my body,  usually lacks exercise to cross the mountain pass. However, all the foreigners passing us were smiling and walking lightly and  the clothes are light.

After 2hours walking,  tourists were happily eating soba and buying souvenirs.

At Narai-jyuku and Yabuhara-jyuku ,you can rent Hinoki-hat(Cypress hat).If you walk around wearing a Hinoki  hat, you might understand the feelings of people in the past.

Nakasendo

Nakasendo