Begin your Kamikochi nature walk in front of Taishoike Hotel, where your guide will introduce the route and the highlights of the experience. From behind the hotel, step onto the walking trail and enjoy one of Kamikochi’s most iconic views: Taisho Pond with the active volcanic peak of Mt. Yakedake rising in the background. Your guide will explain how this dramatic landscape was shaped and help you take in the quiet beauty of the pond in the morning atmosphere.

Continue along the trail from Taisho Pond toward Tashiro Marsh. At Tashiro Pond and Tashiro Marsh, learn how sediment gradually flows into the pond and changes the wetland environment over time. Your guide will also introduce wetland plants found in the area, including seasonal azaleas and small marshland species such as sundews.

Follow the nature research trail toward Tashiro Bridge, walking through peaceful forest scenery and along clear mountain streams. Near the Weston Relief, hear about the shift from traditional religious mountain worship and pilgrimage to modern mountaineering in Japan. Your guide will introduce Walter Weston, who helped make the Japanese Alps known to the wider world.

From there, continue toward Kappa Bridge while enjoying the classic Kamikochi scenery of larch forests, the Azusa River, and the Hotaka mountain range. At Kappa Bridge, learn about the bridge and its name, and take time for memorable photos with the surrounding peaks. The tour ends at Kamikochi Bus Terminal, a convenient location for your onward journey.