Kappabashi Bridge is a wooden suspension bridge spanning the Azusa River in Kamikochi, one of the most celebrated mountain landscapes in the Japanese Alps.
With magnificent views of the Hotaka Mountain Range, Mount Yakedake, and the clear waters of the Azusa River, the bridge has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Kamikochi.
The present bridge is made of Japanese larch and measures approximately 37 meters in length and 3.1 meters in width. A bridge was first constructed at this location in 1891. Kappabashi stands at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters within Chubu-Sangaku National Park.
Kappabashi is also known as a place associated with modern Japanese literature. The famous novelist Ryunosuke Akutagawa featured Kappabashi in his novel Kappa, published in 1927.
For this reason, the bridge is not only a scenic attraction but also a destination connected with one of Japan’s best-known literary works.
Kappabashi is located approximately five minutes on foot from the Kamikochi Bus Terminal, making it one of the most accessible sightseeing spots in the valley.
Because of its convenient location and spectacular scenery, visitors continue to arrive throughout the sightseeing season. The bridge and its surroundings are particularly popular for photography, sightseeing, and leisurely walks along the Azusa River.
The riverbanks around Kappabashi are also home to groups of large keshoyanagi willow trees, adding another distinctive element to the natural landscape.
There are several theories about how the bridge received its unusual name.
One traditional explanation is that a deep pool once existed in this area, a place where kappa—legendary water creatures from Japanese folklore—were thought likely to live. Other theories have also been passed down, and the exact origin of the name remains uncertain.
The area surrounding Kappabashi offers a variety of facilities for visitors, including hotels and other accommodations, shops, campgrounds, and visitor information facilities.
It is an ideal starting point for exploring Kamikochi, whether you are planning a short walk or a longer journey into the surrounding mountains.
After crossing Kappabashi, walk a short distance along the left bank of the Azusa River and you will encounter Shimizugawa River, one of the tributaries of the Azusa River.
Shimizugawa is a relatively short stream, measuring approximately 300 meters in length. Its exceptionally clear water is clean enough to be used as drinking water.
The stream provides drinking water for facilities throughout Kamikochi. The water fountain on the south side of the Kamikochi Information Center, for example, uses water from Shimizugawa.
Snow and rain that fall on Mount Muroyama seep underground and eventually emerge as springs at the foot of the mountain. The water gathers into the clear stream of Shimizugawa.
The water temperature remains at approximately 6°C throughout the year, giving the stream its remarkably cool and refreshing character.
Kappabashi offers a spectacular introduction to the natural beauty of Kamikochi. From the bridge, visitors can look upstream and see the rugged peaks of the Hotaka Mountain Range rising dramatically above the valley.
The contrast between the mountains, forests, and crystal-clear Azusa River changes beautifully with the seasons. Fresh greenery dominates in spring and early summer, while autumn brings colorful foliage and crisp mountain air.
Even during a short visit to Kamikochi, taking time to stand on Kappabashi and appreciate the surrounding landscape is an essential experience.
All facilities in Kamikochi are closed from mid-November to mid-April
Free of charge
1 hour and 10 minutes by bus bound for Kamikochi from Niijima Station on the Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line. 10 minutes walk from the last stop.
By Car
For entry by car, park at Sawatari Parking Lot (2,000 spaces) or Hirayu Parking Lot (850 spaces) and use the shuttle bus (Nobi Bus 0578-89-2351) or cab (Kamikochi Taxi Joint Dispatch Management Center 0263-95-2350) for pick-up and drop-off.