Encountering Snow and Wild Monkeys in Kamikochi's April Opening

April in Japan is the season of cherry blossoms, but in Kamikochi, located in Nagano Prefecture, it is still covered in a layer of pristine snow, welcoming the annual mountain opening season. This hidden highland paradise in the Northern Alps awakens from its winter closure, showcasing its breathtaking purity. As I stepped onto the trails of Kamikochi, the thin snow underfoot and the distant snow-capped mountains created a picturesque scene. The Azusa River meandered like an emerald ribbon along the way. The most special part was encountering Japanese macaques, leisurely foraging in the snow and coexisting harmoniously with visitors. Watching the monkeys play in the snow made me stop and take photos, a rare and pure experience of being one with nature. 📍 Address: Kamikochi, Azumi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture 🕒 Opening Time: Mid-April every year (subject to official announcements) 💴 Transportation: It is recommended to take a dedicated bus or taxi to enter, as private cars are restricted.