Norikura Kogen is just 20km from the famous Kamikochi area but is packed with pristine forests and waterfalls. Enjoy the quiet hiking with garuntee that there are no crowds. Below is more information on things to do here in Norikura and Kamikochi. You can easily enjoy 2-3 days of outdoor fun between Norikura and Kamikochi.
NORTHSTAR Mountain Bike/E-bike Tours in Norikura
Northstar offers a wide range of mountain biking tours from complete beginners to expert and even for families and groups.
Mountain Bike Fun Ride (90min): This is great for beginners and families and those who want to experience the vast nature of the Japan Alps on a biycle. Roughly 7km round trip with offroad sections and some of the best view in Norikura. You may even get to ride through the SPLASH river!
Beginner Mountain Bike Tour (3hours): This tour is for those looking for more adventure while also experiencing Norikura. Our experienced guides will teach basic techniques on how to descend on a mountain bike and how to ride the trails of Norikura. There is ups and downs of about 8-10km of riding depending on the groups riding ability. E-bike options are available for this tour!
Private Tours (90min to full day): This is for more experienced riders who want a more one on one lesson to improve their riding ability. Full day, half day, and 90 min options are available.
Click HERE for more information on Tours
Hiking in Norikura Kogen
There are many hiking options in Norikura for all hiking levels. The views of Norikura mountain along with the ponds, waterfalls, and grasslands are a sight to see.
CLICK HERE for information on hiking trails
Zengoro Waterfall ⇓
Ichinose Area ⇓
Sanbondaki Waterfall ⇓
Ushidome Pond ⇓
Bandokoro Waterfall ⇓
Kamikochi Hiking
Click HERE for more information on Kamikochi
Kamikochi is considered the entrance into the Northern Japan Alps and has a wonderful view of Mount Hotaka with the Azusagawa River flowing from the valley. The famous Kappa Bridge in the picture above is the heart of Kamikochi with many cafes and gifts shops around. There is all levels of hiking from beginner to advanced. Make sure to wear a bear bell and pack for all weather conditions.
Norikura Base Adventure Park
Challenge the zipline and elements at Norikura Base Adventure Park.
Access to Norikura
Car:
20 minutes from Sawando Bus Terminal near Kamikochi
60 minutes from Matsumoto area
80 minutes from Takayama area
Bus:
Kamikochi (35min)- Sawando Bus Terminal (transfer)- Norikura Kogen Tourist Information Center (25min)
Matsumoto (30min train)- Shinishimashima (transfer to bus)- Norikura Kogen Tourist Information Center (60min)
Taxi: Alpico Taxi
Links and Timetables:
Alpico Bus Norikura-Sawando-Matsumoto
Alpico Bus- Kamikochi-Sawando-Matsumoto
