Forest Marshland around Taisho Pond

The path starting from Tashiro Pond, following the Azusa River to Kappa Bridge, and continuing to Myojin Pond at the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine is a walking course that encapsulates the charm of Kamikochi. Trees reflected in the tranquil pond’s surface, the Azusa River with its crystal-clear flow, and the majestic ridgeline of the Hotaka mountain range, changing its appearance with every step. Along the way, standing dead trees and wetlands dot the landscape, welcoming visitors with a scene etched with nature’s workings.

Quiet wetlands stretching along the Azusa River

Along the Azusa River from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge, small ponds and wetlands formed by the river’s flow are scattered about. The spot captured in this photo is one such place, its shallow surface reflecting both standing dead trees and young saplings, mirroring nature’s workings. In the distance, the Hotaka mountain range looms hazy and majestic, while the sky and forest are reflected on the near water surface, creating a fantastical atmosphere. Such scenes, appearing during a quiet stroll, convey the pristine, primordial essence unique to Kamikochi.

Moss-covered forests and water’s edge reflecting light

Walking along the Azusa River, small ponds and wetlands appear here and there. The waterside in the photo stands quietly, embraced by the forest, with clear water filled with water plants spreading across the surface. Sunlight filtering through the trees above reflects on the water, combining with moss-covered branches and rocks to create a fantastical atmosphere. In contrast to the grandeur of the great mountains, these delicate expressions of nature further deepen the charm of Kamikochi.

The peaks of Hotaka seen beyond the withered forest

In Kamikochi, trees that have died standing in the natural cycle become part of the forest landscape. In this photograph, the sharp ridgeline of Hotaka peaks peeks through the gap between trees stripped of trunks and branches. The sight of a forest where life and death coexist evokes both the harshness of nature and the cycle of new life. The mountains glimpsed through the deep forest exude an aura of mystery and solemn grandeur.