Kamikochi

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Tucked in the Japan Alps is the picturesque area of Kamikochi which is inaccessible in the winter. The bus trip from Takayama to Kamikochi necessitated a change at Hirayu Onsen. The views from the bus from Hirayu Onsen to Kamikochi are really beautiful. At this time of the year the leaves are just about to turn autumnal gold but still mainly green so it was not the picture postcard view I was hoping for - but pretty nevertheless. If you are really lucky (and I was) you might just come across the famous snow monkeys in the wild. More of these primates tomorrow. I just spent a day here and then took the bus to Matsumoto. Along the descent there were several large dams could be seen. No time was spent at Matsumoto - which was a pity but there's only so much that can be done in one day. Alas I'm not the super-hero type to hike several days in the region. Onwards to Nagano.

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Photos

Bus station at Hirayu Onsen
Had to change buses at Hirayu Onsen. The surrounding views give an indication of what to expect.

Kamikochi 2
The Kappa bashi bridge.

Kamokochi 3
Nakagawa river

Kamikochi 5
Myojinbashi bridge

Kamikochi 6
View from Myojinbashi bridge.

Kamikochi 7
Myojinike Pond. Close to Myojinbashi bridge is Myojinke pond. The views are very beautiful.

Kamikochi 8
Another one from Myojinike Pond.

Kamikochi 9
Myojinike Pond again. Yes I spent a long time here.

Kamikochi 11
Snow monkeys in the wild.

Kamikochi 12
Snow monkeys crossing Nakagawa river.

Any ideas???
I saw this on the way to Matsumoto. If it is in any way divine I'll need it to arrest my hair loss.