[From Shinjuku | 2D1N] Winter Kamikochi Snowshoe Trek: Venture into a Silent Silver World Inaccessible by Car | Majestic Mt. Hotaka & Taisho Pond (Free 14-Piece Pro Alpine Gear Rental Included)

Tour Highlights

Highlight 1: [Winter Only & Inaccessible by Car] Beyond the Gate Lies Another World! Reach a Silent, Pure-White Sanctuary on Foot

Kamikochi is one of Japan's premier alpine destinations, welcoming over 1.2 million visitors each year. However, during the winter season from mid-November to late April, the gates at Kama Tunnel are completely closed, barring all standard vehicles, tour buses, and taxis.

This tour is a special winter-only adventure that begins on foot right from those closed gates. Leave behind conventional bus tours and step into a peaceful sanctuary untouched by crowds. Wrapped in crisp cold and profound stillness, winter Kamikochi reveals its true beauty only to travelers willing to journey inside on foot.

Highlight 2: [Breathtaking Winter Alpine Vistas] Snow-Covered Taisho Pond, Frozen Azusa River, and the Towering Mt. Hotaka

Exiting Kama Tunnel and emerging from the deep, snow-laden forest opens up to a majestic and breathtaking panorama.

Under crystal-clear winter skies, the towering peaks of Mt. Hotaka rise dramatically, draped in pure white snow. Experience the Azusa River partially frozen in the crisp winter air, alongside the serene, snow-blanketed Tashiro Wetland and Taisho Pond. Quite different from its lively summer season, this is the true, dignified heart of the Japan Alps. The breathtaking view from Kappa Bridge after completing the trek on foot will become a treasured memory of a lifetime.

Highlight 3: [Explore Pure-White Powder on Snowshoes] Crisp Steps on Fresh Snow! Encounter Wildlife Tracks and Ethereal Rime Frost

When winter buries the trails in deep snow, we strap on snowshoes—traditional alpine gear—to traverse the untouched snowfields.

Even without prior experience, anyone can walk effortlessly across soft powder without sinking from the very first step. In the quiet forest, where only the satisfying crunch of fresh snow beneath your feet echoes, you might spot tracks left by wild animals, encounter ethereal rime frost born of chilly mornings, or even witness glittering diamond dust in the air if you're lucky. It is a luxurious outdoor activity that engages all five senses with nature.

Highlight 4: [Day 1 Free Time in Matsumoto] Explore National Treasure Matsumoto Castle and Historic Merchant Streets at Your Own Pace! Relax and Prepare for Day 2

Depart Shinjuku on a direct coach to the historic castle town of Matsumoto. After checking in around 15:30, enjoy ample free leisure time until the next morning.

From touring the keep of National Treasure Matsumoto Castle to strolling through the historic merchant architecture of Nakamachi Street and quirky shops along Nawate Street, or savoring local Shinshu soba and regional delicacies, you can immerse yourself in Matsumoto's culture at your leisure. An overnight hotel stay ensures you are well-rested and fully prepared for Day 2's alpine snowshoe trek.

Highlight 5: [Complimentary 14-Piece Pro Alpine Gear Rental] In Partnership with "Yama Dōgu Rental-ya"! Tackle a Real Snow Mountain Trek Hands-Free

Sitting at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters, winter Kamikochi is a genuine alpine environment requiring proper winter mountain equipment (supportive mountaineering boots, windproof/thermal apparel, snowshoes, crampons, etc.).

While typical tours require participants to bring all their own gear—forcing overseas travelers to spend over ¥100,000 on costly winter equipment and haul heavy bags—we have eliminated that burden.

Through an exclusive partnership with Yama Dōgu Rental-ya, one of Japan's leading mountaineering gear specialists, we provide 14 carefully selected pieces of professional alpine gear completely free of charge, including snowshoes, trekking poles, waterproof/breathable rainwear, rigid hiking boots, thermal fleece, inner down, and goggles.

Simply board our direct bus from Shinjuku and embark on a genuine snow mountain adventure virtually hands-free.