Hiking at Myojin Pond in Kamikochi

Our route starts from Konashidaira Campground in Kamikochi, passing through Myojinkan, Myojin Bridge, Myojin Pond, and Hotaka Shrine Okumiya, then returning (one way 3.4km). We started hiking around 6:30 in the morning from the campground. The trail mainly goes through the forest, which made us worry about bears, but there were many hikers along the way. We took photos while walking and rested at Myojinkan (a mountain hut and shop) to eat. Most people also rest here. There are free public restrooms (recommended to use them here as the ones at Myojin Pond require a fee). It took us about 45 minutes to walk from the campground to Myojinkan. Myojinkan is a fork point; one path leads to Myojin Pond, and the other continues up the mountain to Tokusawa and further to Kurasawa. From Myojinkan to Tokusawa is another 3.4km, and Kurasawa is even farther. Tokusawa is a large meadow that used to be a grazing area and is now open for camping. We saw many hikers with camping gear heading there. Interestingly, many people had helmets on their backpacks, making us curious about how dangerous the trail is. We also saw many groups of Japanese children and teenagers carrying their own gear, some with their favorite stuffed toys attached. From Myojinkan to Myojin Pond is only 0.6km, so we continued to our final destination. Soon, we saw Myojin Bridge. After crossing the bridge, there are occasional cafes along the road. Not long after, we saw a torii gate, followed by shops. Kamonjiya Hut, famous for its grilled fish, was still closed when we arrived early in the morning. Following the road to the end, we reached Hotaka Shrine Okumiya. There is a ticket booth to enter Myojin Pond, and there are paid rest areas and restrooms nearby. The ticket booth also sells omamori (charms). Inside, the scenery is stunning. We first saw Myojin Pond One, with a wooden bridge extending into the pond and small boats docked nearby. Myojin Pond has two sections, and there are wooden walkways around the pond, perfect for taking photos. At the end of the walk, there is a small stream and waterfall, where we turned back. We were lucky to have clear blue skies and reflections on the lake, making it look like a fairyland. We spent about 40 minutes taking photos and enjoying the view. The return trip from Hotaka Shrine Okumiya was downhill and very easy, with the trail shaded by the forest, making it very comfortable. Remember!!!! When hiking in Kamikochi, be sure to bring a "bear bell" (available at shops in Kamikochi if you forget). Kamikochi is a bear habitat, and there are frequent signs warning visitors of bear sightings. Although bears generally avoid noisy areas with many people, it's still important to be cautious, especially on less crowded sections of the trail. Avoid staying outdoors alone at night or early morning when bear activity is more likely. Kamikochi and the surrounding peaks are part of Chubu Sangaku National Park. The hiking season is from mid-April to mid-November, after which the area is closed, shops are shut, and buses stop running. Winter hiking with snowshoes is possible but extremely challenging. So, make the most of the open season for an enjoyable experience.