1
Kappa-bashi bridge

Kappa-bashi Bridge is located in Kamikochi, near the center of the Northern Alps.
It is located in a scenic mountainous area at an elevation of approximately 1,500 m. It was the first suspension bridge built across the Azusa River in 1910 (Meiji 43), and the current bridge is the fifth generation.

The bridge over the clear stream offers a spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range and other 3,000-meter mountains upstream, and Yake-dake (Mt. Yaki) downstream.
Located in the center of Kamikochi, which is crowded with tourists throughout the season, the view from the bridge is overwhelming with the splendor of nature.

Visitors can enjoy the spectacular seasonal views at any time of the year, but late May through June is the best time to visit, when the contrast between the white snow-capped peaks of the Hotaka mountain range and the fresh greenery is beautiful and the area is free.
The amount of precipitation is relatively low, and although the mountain weather is changeable, if the weather clears up in time, you will be able to see the impressive scenery reflected in the crystal-clear water.

If you want to spend a quiet time, early morning is recommended when there are few people around.
From the riverbank near the bus terminal on the left bank of the Azusa River, you can capture the Azusa River, Mt. Myojindake, and Kappa-bashi Bridge, known as the representative scenery of Kamikochi, on your camera at the same time.
Visitors can enter Kamikochi from late April to mid-November. Private vehicles are not allowed in Kamikochi from late April to mid-November.

2
Shiroyama Park

Shiroyama Park is located on a hill in the suburbs of Matsumoto City and is known as the viewing platform of the Northern Alps.
The history of the park dates back to the end of the Edo period, when the Toda clan, the feudal lord of the time, planted cherry trees, pine trees, and maple trees on the ruins of the Kamakura castle and opened the park to the public.

The most impressive view is from the observatory, which offers a panoramic view of approximately 300 degrees.
On a clear day, you can see the entire city, Mt. Yarigatake and Mt. Norikura in the west and the mountains of the Northern Alps in the east, as far as Utsukushi-ga-hara in the east.

Shiroyama Park is at its busiest when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Every year in mid-April, the cherry trees in the park bloom all around the beautiful green grass plaza. The park is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the once-a-year scenery, including a tunnel lined with cherry blossom trees.

The change from the evening view before sunset to the night view is also exceptional. The night view of the mountains' ridgelines and the sparkling city is also a spectacular point of interest. The cylindrical observation deck has a spiral staircase, so it is best to bring a flashlight just in case.

3
Alps Park

Located in the hills northwest of downtown Matsumoto, this urban park is rich in nature and stretches at an elevation of approximately 800 m. The park is also home to the Northern Alps and Azumi-no-Azumi-no-Matsumoto.

In the "Family Zone," there are various playgrounds and other properties that take advantage of the undulating terrain, such as the zoo "Forest of Birds and Small Animals" and the "Museum of Mountain and Nature" for interaction and learning.
In the "Zone of Learning, Health, and Sports," there is the "Shizen Kansatsu no Mori" where visitors can come into contact with satoyama creatures, and the "Old House Experience Property" where visitors can experience satoyama life through various purposes such as soba noodle making, making it a spacious park where families can enjoy themselves while getting close to nature.

The park also offers a spectacular view of the Northern Alps, Azumino Mountains, Utsukushi-ga-hara (Utsukushi-ga-hara), and Matsumoto City.
The observation room on the fifth floor of the Museum of Mountain and Nature can be used free of charge and offers a 360-degree view.
The view is spectacular in every season, including cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snow-capped leaves, and is a sight not to be missed.

Alps Park

• 2455-11 Arikazaki, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR Matsumoto
• Approx. 20 minutes from JR Matsumoto Station on the Alps Koen Line of the Alpico Kotsu Bus, and alight at the Alps Koen stop.
• 0263-34-5640
• Free of charge

4
Misuzu Lake

This man-made lake is located at an elevation of 1,000 m, 3.5 km up in the mountains from Asama hot spring in the northeast of Matsumoto City.
Formerly known as "Ashinoda Pond," its history dates back to the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), and it was renamed "Misuzu Lake" in 1953. It is also known as a mecca for spoonbill and wakasagi fishing, and can be enjoyed by beginners.

From mid-October to mid-November, larch and red pine trees turn red, and the reflections on the water are spectacular. If the weather is favorable, visitors can view the majestic Northern Alps against the backdrop of the lake and trees.
From late April to May, the snow-covered Alps contrast beautifully with the mountain cherry blossoms and double-flowered cherry trees that bloom later than those on the plains, making the area ideal for walking and trekking.