In the Japanese Alps

Takayama is located west of the Japanese Alps. About a 90-minute bus ride away is Kamikochi, a valley in the middle of the northern Alps. This area is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and is closed to public transportation. The famous Kappa Bridge crosses the Azusa River. Kappas are Japanese water spirits and are known throughout Japan. The souvenir shops were full of them and I couldn't resist buying some :)

And the scenery: breathtaking! And cold :D There are black bears in the area, so many hikers had bear bells with them. At first, I wondered why so many people were ringing their bells :) While hiking, I encountered two monkey families who were jumping from branch to branch and sometimes in front of hikers. The hiking trail always follows the river or goes through the forest. It's always flat. However, most Japanese and Chinese people were dressed as if they were going to climb Mount Everest :D They take it way too seriously.

But definitely one of the most beautiful places in Japan!