Colors of My Heart

Kappa Bridge, located in the heart of Kamikochi, is a wooden suspension bridge spanning the Azusa River and stands as one of the area's most iconic scenic spots. The warmth of its timber beautifully complements the surrounding trees and crystal-clear river, enchanting countless visitors from home and abroad. The true highlight of Kappa Bridge is the 360-degree panoramic view from atop the bridge. Looking upstream along the Azusa River, the rugged, 3,000-meter-class peaks of the Hotaka Mountain Range rise majestically like a folding screen. Turning downstream, you can behold Mount Yakedake, an active volcano listed among Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, with white plumes of steam still rising from its peak. Across the emerald-green flow of the pristine Azusa River, enjoying both the dynamic rock faces of Hotaka and the wild, breathing presence of Mount Yakedake at the same time is a luxury unique to Kappa Bridge. The landscape changes remarkably with the seasons and time of day, of...

Located at the entrance to Kamikochi, Taisho Pond (Taisho-ike) is an iconic, mystical scenic spot that reflects the majestic surrounding Alps on its tranquil water surface. It is a relatively young pond, formed overnight in 1915 when a major eruption of Mount Yakedake—an active volcano—sent mudflows that dammed the Azusa River. The greatest charm of Taisho Pond lies in its stunning location and the beauty of its waters. During calm, still hours, the emerald-green surface reflects upside-down views of the majestic Hotaka Mountain Range and the still-steaming Mount Yakedake, creating a scenery that resembles a fine painting. Additionally, the standing, withered larch trees rising from the water craft a mystical atmosphere unique to Taisho Pond. The pond exhibits dramatic transformations depending on the time of day, with ethereal mist rising off the river in the early morning and the water being painted in warm hues as the sun sets over the mountains in the evening. Because the bus and t...

Located about a one-hour walk (approximately 3 kilometers) upstream along the Azusa River from Kappa Bridge, Myojin Bridge is a suspension bridge set in the peaceful Myojin area. Offering a striking contrast to the bustling atmosphere around Kappa Bridge, it is renowned as the gateway to Inner Kamikochi (Oku-Kamikochi), where a serene and sacred atmosphere fills the air. The current bridge is a warm, wooden suspension structure designed to complement the surrounding landscape. Soaring directly before it is Mount Myojin (2,931 meters), a sacred peak revered by Hotaka Shrine Inner Shrine. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panorama that combines the rugged, majestic face of Mount Myojin with the crystal-clear waters of the Azusa River, making it one of the premier photography spots in Kamikochi. In the past, the Myojin area served as the true center of Kamikochi, and a bridge known as the "First Kappa Bridge" once stood here. Crossing the bridge brings ...