Colors of My Heart

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 ...

Rising on the left bank of the Azusa River (on the opposite side when viewed from Kappa Bridge), Mount Kasumizawa (2,646 meters), along with its outer peaks, Mount Roppyaku (2,470 meters) and Sanbon-yari, may often be overshadowed by the Hotaka Mountain Range, but they are essential peaks that form the southeastern backdrop of Kamikochi's scenery. Mount Roppyaku, which rises steeply right beside the Azusa River, and Sanbon-yari, with its sharp group of rocky crags protruding near the summit, present a highly dynamic profile that is easily visible from Kappa Bridge and Taisho Pond. However, due to the lack of maintained hiking trails and frequent rockfalls, this area remains a realm of silence and steep cliffs, off-limits to general hikers. Nestled behind them is Mount Kasumizawa, listed among Japan's 200 Famous Mountains. It is accessible via a trail through Tokugo Pass, offering a challenging day trip or overnight hike. Although the route is demanding with continuous ups and...

Mount Yakedake, standing at an elevation of 2,455 meters on the border between Nagano and Gifu prefectures, is an active volcano listed among the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. As the most active volcano in the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains), white plumes of steam still rise near its summit today, allowing visitors to closely feel the breath of the Earth alongside the scent of sulfur. The mountain has also played a significant role in the region's history. During its major eruption in 1915, a mudflow dammed the Azusa River, resulting in the creation of Taisho Pond—one of Kamikochi’s most iconic scenic spots. In a sense, Mount Yakedake can be seen as the creator of Kamikochi’s stunning natural landscape. It is also a popular destination among hikers, offering a relatively easy ascent within the Northern Alps that can be completed as a day trip. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view encompassing the Hotaka Mountain Range, Mount Yarigatake, and the spraw...

Myojin Pond (Myojin-ike) in Kamikochi is a sacred pond located within the grounds of Hotaka Shrine Okumiya. Formed by spring water collecting in an old riverbed of the Azusa River, its waters remain strikingly clear year-round and never freeze, even in winter. The site consists of two ponds, Ichino-ike (First Pond) and Nino-ike (Second Pond), with the rugged, rocky face of Mount Myojin towering above the shore. The mountains and vivid green virgin forest reflect on the mirror-like surface, creating a mystical scene that resembles a traditional painting. Filled with a serene and pure atmosphere, it is widely recognized as one of Kamikochi’s foremost spiritual power spots. Located about a one-hour walk from Kappa Bridge through a forest bathed in dappled sunlight, it is the perfect destination for a quiet stroll. Harmonizing seasonal nature with deep-rooted faith, Myojin Pond offers visitors profound healing and unforgettable inspiration. Nikon D850 /​ ​​AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm F4G ED VR ...