Kamikochi Revisited Twenty Years Later (Part 5/7) - 9th -12th Aug 2026: Myojin Bridge Sacred Gateway to Inner Kamikochi

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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 you to Hotaka Shrine Inner Shrine, the mystical Myojin Pond, and historic mountain lodges, allowing travelers to sense a rich history that has welcomed mountain ascetics and hikers for generations.

Surrounded by lush forests of conifers and broadleaf trees, it is an ideal setting for a tranquil stroll accompanied by the soothing sound of the flowing stream and the songs of wild birds.


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/160s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/500s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/500s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/500s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/640s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/500s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/160s / ISO400 / -0.3


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f7.1 / 1/1000s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f7.1 / 1/800s / ISO400 / 0.0


    Camera : Nikon D850 at DPREVIEW
    Lens      : AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR at DPREVIEW    


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Location: 日本、〒390-1520 長野県松本市安曇明神橋

Comments

  1. Anonymous20/8/26 22:23

    河童橋と明神橋、こんなにも人の賑わいが違うのにびっくりです。
    明神のこの雰囲気が好きです。

    I’m amazed at the stark difference in the crowds between Kappa Bridge and Myojin Bridge.
    I love the atmosphere here at Myojin.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dararin Darling21/8/26 10:03

      河童橋はすぐそこまで大型観光バスが来れるので、おおよそ登山とは思えないような恰好をした観光客も沢山いました。明神橋は河童橋から４０分ほど奥に歩かないといけないので、そういった格好の人は来ないのだと思います。私も明神橋の静かな雰囲気の方が好きです。

      Since large tour buses can reach very close to Kappa Bridge, there were many tourists whose clothing and footwear hardly seemed suitable for hiking. In contrast, Myojin Bridge is about a 40-minute walk farther into the valley from Kappa Bridge, so I suppose people dressed that way are less likely to go there. Personally, I prefer the quiet and peaceful atmosphere around Myojin Bridge as well.

      Delete

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