As the final month of the season, November brings both beauty and closure to Kamikochi. The vivid colors of October fade into a quieter landscape throughout the month, where bare trees stand against snow-dusted peaks and morning frost shimmers along the riverbanks. Fewer visitors make their way into the valley during these early weeks, lending a sense of solitude and stillness that contrasts sharply with the lively energy of spring and summer. By mid-November, Kamikochi closes for the winter, making the first half of the month a great chance to witness the valley while you still can.
This page brings together all of our best tips and ideas on how to enjoy Kamikochi in November, whether that be at Kappabashi bridge, by the Myojin Pond, or elsewhere! For visitors looking to make the most of their day, consider one of our many guided tours in the area, and if you do join you will have a great day with a friendly and knowledgeable guide to look forward to.
Weather in November
November marks the closing chapter of Kamikochi’s yearly cycle. By early November, daytime temperatures hover between 0°C and 8°C (32–46°F), with frosty mornings and occasional light snow at higher elevations. The vibrant autumn colors that filled the valley in October give way to bare branches and a more subdued, quiet landscape as the month progresses. The crisp air and stillness make this a very different but equally beautiful time to visit.
Kamikochi closes to the public from November 15 until late April, meaning visitors only have the first two weeks of the month to experience the valley before winter sets in fully. Travelers should dress warmly in layers, wear sturdy footwear for icy paths, and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.
What to Expect
- Clear, crisp air with excellent visibility for photography.
- Freezing mornings and evenings—dress warmly.
- Light rain is possible; pack a rain jacket.
- Fall colors still visible early in the month, but past peak.
Seasonal Highlights in November
Quiet Trails in the Early Winter Air
By November, most of the vivid autumn colors have passed, leaving behind a quieter, more subdued landscape. The riverside paths between Taisho Pond, Kappabashi Bridge, and Myojin Bridge remain open until mid-month and offer a chance to enjoy the crisp alpine air in relative solitude. Trails are less crowded than in October, and while sections may be icy in the morning, they are still accessible for careful walkers. For seasoned hikers, the routes toward Mt. Yake or Myojin Pond take on a stark, almost winterlike atmosphere, rewarding those who don’t mind the chill with serene mountain views.
Kappa Bridge in the Stillness of November
Kappa Bridge remains the symbolic heart of Kamikochi, and in November it takes on a different character. The brilliant foliage of October has given way to bare trees and snow-capped peaks rising sharply above the valley. The lack of crowds makes it an especially good time for photography—capturing the contrast of the clear Azusa River with the looming, frosted Hotaka Mountains. Expect frosty mornings and occasional snow along the valley floor, lending an almost otherworldly calm to the scene.
Frost and Reflections at Taisho Pond
Although the colorful reflections of October have faded, Taisho Pond in November offers an entirely new beauty. Early mornings often bring a layer of mist over the water, while frost along the banks glitters in the first sunlight. The pond’s still surface mirrors the surrounding peaks, often dusted with snow by this time of year. The 3.6 km walk from Taisho Pond to Kappabashi Bridge remains one of the most rewarding routes in early November, though visitors should be prepared for cold conditions and possible icy patches along the way.
Featured Tours in November
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
The perfect tour to enjoy fall colors in November, this tour brings you both to Matsumoto Castle and the gorgeous alpine valley of Kamikochi. Aim for early-November onwards to enjoy the last of the fall colors in Kamikochi and the for the best chance of peak fall colors around Matsumoto Castle.
Highlights
- Enjoy fall colors around Matsumoto Castle and good mountain views from the top floor
- Hike in Kamikochi, one of Japan's most beautiful natural areas during the quiet season
- Learn about the cultural and natural history of the Matsumoto area
Popular
1-Day Tour from Nagano and Matsumoto: Kamikochi & Matsumoto Castle
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Seasonal 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Alpine Splendor – Shinhotaka Ropeway & Kamikochi
November brings snow and the last hurrah of fall colors to Kamikochi and the Shinhotaka Ropeway. Wander Kamikochi’s frosty riverside while looking up at fresh snow on the mountains, and ascend the ropeway for amazing views of the Northern Japanese Alps from on high.
Highlights
- Stroll through Kamikochi in the stillness of early winter.
- Ride Japan’s only double-decker gondola at Shinhotaka Ropeway.
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Northern Alps.
[START FROM NAGANO/MATSUMOTO] Private Kamikochi Tour
On this private tour, guests will be able to visit the over 400 year old Matsumoto Castle, followed by a trip high into the Japanese Alps to enjoy a hike in the fresh mountain air of Kamikochi, a secluded valley that is considered the gem of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park. Guests on this tour are free to mix and match their starting and end points from the following locations: Nagano City or Matsumoto City. You may also choose any location within a 5km radius of these stations as your pick up or drop off location. For example, you may start at Nagano City and end in Matsumoto City, or start in Matsumoto City and end in Nagano City, or start and end in the same city.
Highlights
- Start and end your tour at or near any of the following points: Nagano Station or Matsumoto Station.
- Store your luggage on our tour bus during the tour, removing the hassle of sending your luggage to the next destination.
- Visit historic and vibrant Matsumoto, home of Matsumoto Castle.
- Take a 3 kilometer hike in Kamikochi, a breathtaking alpine valley.
New Tour
[START FROM NAGANO/MATSUMOTO] Private Kamikochi Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoMatsumotoKamikochi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityMatsumoto
Local News & Travel Updates
- Transport Updates - During the fall color season, buses and trains to Matsumoto will book out faster than in other times of the year. Kamikochi however will see less crowds as the fall color season tapers off.
- Expect Cold and Rapidly Changing Weather Conditions - The weather forecast for the late autumn period this year is showing the possibility of colder than averages temperatures - this may mean early snowfall, so be careful in the mountains and make sure to use studless winter tires if driving.
- Trail Conditions - Paths are well-maintained but can be slippery with ice and fallen leaves. Proper footwear is advised. Trails like the riverside loop are beginner-friendly, while routes to Mt. Yake or Tokusawa are moderate in difficulty. Early starts are recommended to make the most of daylight.
- Kamikochi Closure - Kamikochi is closed to public transport from the middle of November onwards, and it is not recommended to attempt visiting after that time unless you are an experienced winter hiker.
Where to Stay in November
Kamikochi – Traditional ryokan and minshuku are nestled cozily amongst the last of the autumn foliage. Some lodgings include onsen baths with mountain views, providing a relaxing end to a day of hiking. Please note that hotel prices are high and availability may be scarce.
Matsumoto or Nagoya City – Matsumoto offers a charming base with castle-town ambiance and convenient transport to Kamikochi. Nagoya provides a major transport hub with abundant hotels, restaurants, and direct bus/train links to trailheads. Staying in one of these cities is ideal for combining Kamikochi with other central Japan sightseeing. Alternatively, visitors may stay in Nagano City, as our group tour also offers pickup from that area.
Takayama - On the other side of Kamikochi from Matsumoto is Takayama, a small city that is home to many well preserved historic streets. Popular with visitors in autumn for its famous town festival, access to Kamikochi from Takayama by bus is simple. However, on weekends large crowds may mean extra wait time, so plan ahead.
Plan Your November Visit
November is your last chance in the year to enjoy Kamikochi. With crisp mountain air, brilliant autumn colors, and peaceful alpine scenery, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and casual hikers alike. Whether joining a guided tour or exploring independently, planning ahead for accommodations and transport ensures a smooth and memorable visit.
If you’re visiting this November, explore our seasonal tours and let us help you experience the highlights of Kamikochi with ease and comfort.