Kamikochi Valley is a breathtaking natural wonder in Japan’s Northern Alps. This private, customizable full-day tour takes visitors on an engaging adventure to explore the region’s top attractions. Under the guidance of an English-speaking professional, travelers can craft an itinerary tailored to their preferences, discovering iconic sites like Kappabashi Bridge and Taisho Pond while keeping an eye out for wildlife. With a flexible 8-hour timeframe, this tour promises a personalized experience that showcases the valley’s stunning beauty. What awaits those who embark on this journey?
This experience earned its place in our ranking of the 12 best Tours in Matsumoto.
Key Points
- Discover 4-5 top attractions in the scenic Kamikochi valley, including Kappabashi Bridge and Taisho Pond.
- Explore the region’s diverse wildlife, such as Japanese macaques and bird species, with a professional English-speaking guide.
- Customize the itinerary based on preferences provided after booking, with flexibility to focus on key sights or explore more.
- Adhere to a strict cancellation policy, with a non-refundable service fee for custom itineraries.
- Meet at the Kamikochi Activity Station and begin the tour at Kamikochi Station, with optional hotel pickup available.
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Tour Highlights
The tour highlights a diverse range of natural wonders found within the Kamikochi valley. Guests can discover 4-5 top attractions, including the serene Kappabashi Bridge, reflecting the dramatic peaks of the Northern Alps.
The Taisho Pond, formed from a landslide in 1915, offers stunning views of Mount Hotaka. Kamikochi’s lush forests and rivers provide ample opportunities for wildlife spotting, from the iconic Japanese macaque to the diverse bird species.
With the guidance of an English-speaking professional, guests can fully enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this renowned alpine resort.
Customization Options
Although the Kamikochi Private Customizable Tour offers a pre-designed itinerary, travelers can customize their experience to suit their preferences.
After booking, guests receive a form to provide information on their desired attractions, duration, and other specifics. This allows the tour guide to craft a personalized schedule within the 8-hour timeframe.
Guests can choose to focus on 4-5 key sights or spread their time across more attractions. The flexibility ensures an engaging and tailored tour.
Cancellation policies are clearly outlined, with varying fees depending on the notice period. Booking well in advance is recommended.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers complete the Kamikochi Form sent after booking to provide their itinerary preferences.
The tour has a strict cancellation policy. There’s a 100% fee for cancellations 14 days or less before the event, 50% for 21 days or less, and 25% for 30 days or less. A non-refundable 15% service fee applies if the custom itinerary has already been sent.
To avoid penalties, the tour company recommends booking at least 3 months in advance, with restaurant reservations made at least a month prior. Last-minute bookings are accepted but must be confirmed within 48 hours.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the Kamikochi Private Customizable Tour is the Kamikochi Activity Station, located at 4469-1 Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516, Japan. The tour typically starts at the Kamikochi Station, but guests can request pickup or head directly to the meeting point. If running late, guests should arrive at least 10 minutes early, as the guide waits only 30 minutes before cancellation.
| Meeting Point | Pickup Option | Start Time | Late Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kamikochi Activity Station | Available | Starts at Kamikochi Station | 10 mins early, 30 mins wait |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Kamikochi Private Customizable Tour includes a professional tour guide and hotel pickup and drop-off.
However, meals, food, and drinks are at the traveler’s own expense. Optional tour and activity fees are also not included. Guests can choose to provide gratuities, but this is optional.
The tour is private, with only the booked group participating. Japan Awaits, the licensed tour operator, has vetted the guides nationwide.
Confirmation is received at booking or within 48 hours for last-minute bookings. The tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and infants must sit on laps.
Additional Considerations
Booking the Kamikochi Private Customizable Tour well in advance is recommended, as the operator advises reserving at least 3 months prior, or 1 month for restaurant bookings.
Guests receive tour confirmation within 48 hours or for last-minute bookings. The tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps.
Passports may be required for age verification. This is a private tour, with only your group participating.
Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator with vetted guides nationwide, ensuring a quality experience.
About Japan Awaits
Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator that provides vetted guides nationwide, ensuring a quality experience for their guests.
They offer a range of private tours, including the Kamikochi Private Customizable Full Day Tour, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
Some key facts about Japan Awaits:
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Licensed and vetted: Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator with a nationwide network of professional guides, guaranteeing a safe and reliable experience.
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Customized experiences: They offer customizable tours, allowing guests to tailor the itinerary to their specific needs and interests.
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Quality assurance: By using vetted guides, Japan Awaits ensures their guests receive a high-quality and informative tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks during the tour. However, meals, food, and drinks are not included in the tour price and are at the guest’s own expense.
Is the Tour Wheelchair and Stroller Friendly Throughout?
The tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly throughout. According to the information provided, the tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and most travelers can participate, with infants allowed to sit on laps.
Do I Need to Purchase Any Special Permits or Tickets?
No special permits or tickets are required for this tour. The tour package includes transportation and a professional guide, so travelers just need to focus on enjoying the sights and experiences.
Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide or Change the Guide?
Yes, you can request a specific tour guide. However, the tour provider may not be able to accommodate the request, as guide availability can vary. Tour guides are assigned by the provider based on expertise and scheduling.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?
This is a private tour, so there’s no minimum or maximum group size – it’s just your group. The tour can be customized to your preferences, including the ability to request a specific guide if desired.
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The Sum Up
The Kamikochi Private Customizable Full Day Tour offers a personalized adventure through this stunning natural wonder. Visitors can explore iconic sites, spot wildlife, and enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to their preferences. With an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an engaging and memorable experience, allowing travelers to make the most of their visit to Kamikochi Valley.