Oct 20, 2014 - 1 min read

Kamikochi Taisho-ike Pond Hike

Azusa River & the Japanese Alps with morning mist

Community writer

Explore nearby

Kamikochi is a fascinating scenic spot on the upper reaches of the Azusa River. It commands a great view of the northern Japanese Alps. The flat land here has a well-maintained wooden path through the forest and along the river for hikers to enjoy. A British missionary, Walter Weston (1861-1940), made a successful ascent of the Japanese Alps in 1893 guided by a local hunter, Kamijo Kamonji. They remained lifelong friends. Later, in 1896, Weston published a book “Mountaineering and Exploration in the Japanese Alps” in the U.K., and introduced the charms of Kamikochi to Europe. The wooden path connects Kamikochi Bus Terminal and Taisho-ike Pond, which was formed by a volcanic eruption in 1915. As I walked above the Azusa River, I also enjoyed the view of the beautiful mountains covered in morning mist. One hour later, I reached the shore of this large pond which rippled on its surface, reflecting the mountain scenery behind it. I took a deep breath and gained energy and vigor from these beautiful natural surroundings.