Is it possible to swim in Myojin Pond?

Swimming is not allowed in Myojin Pond as it is considered sacred.

Can I bring my pet to Myojin Pond?

Pets are prohibited in the pond area, but you can walk with them on designated trails nearby.

Are there any restaurants or food options near Myojin Pond?

Several restaurants and cafes are located near Kappa Bridge, about an hour's hike from Myojin Pond.

Is there a specific dress code for visiting the Hotaka Shrine at Myojin Pond?

While there is no strict dress code, visitors are asked to dress modestly and respectfully, as this site is sacred.

Are there any accommodations near Myojin Pond?

Several hotels and lodges are located near Kappa Bridge, which offers easy access to Myojin Pond. During peak seasons, it is recommended that you make reservations in advance.

A calm lake reflects autumn trees and forested hills under a clear blue sky, creating a mirror-like image of the landscape.

A wooden boardwalk runs alongside a clear, shallow pond surrounded by bare trees and dense green forest, with a hillside covered in trees in the background.

A serene mountain lake surrounded by lush green trees, rocky islands, and tall, leafless tree trunks under a partly cloudy sky, with mountains in the background.

A calm forest scene with clear water, green trees, and a small grassy island in the foreground, surrounded by lush vegetation and dense woods in the background.

Clear water with rocks and sparse vegetation in the foreground, tall thin dead trees, dense green forest, and a mountain peak under a partly cloudy blue sky in the background.

Kamikochi

Myojin Pond (Myojin Ike)

4.6 (143)LakeNatural FeatureEstablishment

Myojin Pond, a serene jewel in the heart of Kamikochi, offers an escape into the tranquil beauty of nature. Situated about an hour's hike from Kappa Bridge, this pond is steeped in spiritual significance, with its crystal-clear waters revered in Shinto tradition.

The area is home to the Hotaka Shrine, where the annual Omizugaeshi ceremony is held, underscoring the sacred atmosphere of this idyllic spot. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, Myojin Pond provides a picturesque setting that changes with the seasons, from vibrant autumn leaves to the fresh green hues of spring.

Visitors can explore two main trails, each offering unique perspectives and the chance to encounter local wildlife. The pond consists of two parts, known for their reflective beauty and serene ambiance.

The best time to visit is early morning, when the light creates mesmerizing reflections on the pond's surface. Whether you're there for a peaceful stroll or to participate in the annual Boat Festival in October, Myojin Pond promises a memorable experience.

Take advantage of this tranquil haven; plan your visit to Myojin Pond and immerse yourself in its natural splendor.

Hours

6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed

November 16 to April 16

*Closed during winter and always open during the season

Available

All year (except November 16 to April 16)

Minimum Age

All ages are welcome.

Admission Fee

500 yen (Adults)

200 yen (Elementary school children)

The area

Address

Myojin Pond, Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1516, Japan

Top ways to experience Myojin Pond (Myojin Ike)

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What other travelers are saying about Myojin Pond (Myojin Ike)

Beautifully located around 1,5 hours easy walk from Kappa bridge. Calm green lake in the middle of the forest. We need to pay 500 JPY to enter this lake area. Took a 10 minutes queue to be able to take a picture in the lake side where there is small tori.

agtifa primadani

Sep 29, 2025

If you visit Kamikochi in the first time and love basic hike, this place would be good for you. From Kappa bridge, it takes more than 6-7 km to reach here. Try to plan for morning or late afternoon. It gets dark around 4.30pm in autumn time. Paid entrance fee to visit this place.

Sumol

Nov 10, 2024

Gorgeous at 9am, definitely even more beautiful earlier in the morning with the morning light and mist! There is a cafe and a restaurant nearby to grab breakfast too. JPY500 entrance fee

Rimmel Choong

Jul 28, 2024

I would think Myojin Pond 明神池 is at it's prettiest at early morning with the soft and warm sunlight and calm weather. If you are lucky enough like me you will see perfect reflection on both ponds, plus there are very few tourist. I Visted at 6-7am, 28/4/23. But to be there so early one has to stay in one of the nearby lodge (e.g. 明神館, or like me in Tokusawa-en and set off at 5am to catch the first sunlight at Myojin bridge and pond) (Also attached are some photos of Myojin Bridge at early morning)

Wei Chong Pang

May 23, 2023

The lake was beautiful but the entrance fee is too expensive and the ticket salesman is unkind. It was the first time that I felt someone is unkind in Japan and I feel bad :(

김민정

Oct 13, 2025

Nearby attractions to see

Sunlight shines through tall trees over a clear, shallow stream in a forest. The sky is bright blue with a single white cloud, and green foliage surrounds the peaceful natural scene.

Dakesawa Marshland

A sunlit path winds through a forest of tall trees with golden autumn leaves, surrounded by green bushes and fallen foliage, beneath a clear blue sky.

Konashidaira Camp Site

The sun sets behind snow-capped mountain peaks, casting golden light and rays across the sky and illuminating the clouds with warm shades of orange and yellow.

Mount Yari

A scenic mountain landscape with a suspension bridge stretching over a clear river. The area is surrounded by colorful autumn trees and towering snow-capped peaks under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. Many people are walking on the bridge.

Kamikochi Nature Observation Events