Kamikochi Revisited Twenty Years Later (Part 6/7) - 9th -12th Aug 2026: The Emerald Mirror of Taisho Pond

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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 taxi stop (Taisho-ike Bus Stop) is located right nearby, it is very popular as a starting point for exploring Kamikochi. Walking along the wooden boardwalk that leads from here to Kappa Bridge allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in Kamikochi’s rich natural environment.

When I visited 20 years ago under cloudy skies, I was unable to fully appreciate its true charm. This time, however, I was fortunate to witness the emerald lake surface along with the striking reflections of Mount Yakedake and the Hotaka Mountain Range, allowing me to thoroughly enjoy its captivating beauty.

Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/250s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/200s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/320s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/250s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/250s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/125s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/400s / ISO400 / +0.3


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f10 / 1/320s / ISO400 / 0.0


Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR with CPL / ​​​​​f11 / 1/160s / ISO400 / -0.7


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


   English   Japanese

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Location: 日本、〒390-1520 長野県松本市安曇上高地 大正池

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