With the rainy season now nearing its end, Kamikochi is seeing a mixture of sunny and rainy weather with the latter still being a bit more frequent than most people would like. Those ink wash-like landscapes described in our last blog entry are still a frequent sight around the park and seasonal flowers continue to enjoy the benefits of plentiful rainfall.
Now that July is here, we’re all looking forward to more seasonable summer weather and that pitch perfect mix of radiant sunshine and cool breezes that Kamikochi is famous for. In the meantime, we still have a few more days of moody spring mists ahead, so we might as well make the most of it.
Two views of Taisho Pond, as the fog rolls out to reveal a familiar vista.
The flowers blossoming around Kamikochi these days include the cornus canadensis (variously called “Canadian bunchberry,” “crackerberry,” and “creeping dogwood in English), and the colorfully named “snake berry”:
One spot that is sure to seem more and more welcoming as the temperatures rise is Dakesawa’s famed “natural cooler,” a cave known for the usually cool breeze which blows out of it even during the hottest days of summer. For a more detailed description, see this entry from last year: https://www.kamikochi.org/blogs/159-experiencing-nature-s-cooler.html
Lastly, while rain, clouds, and atmospheric mists have been the order of the day around here, the sun still often appears to highlight inspiring views like these ones of Nishi Hotaka and Roppyaku-san seen here:
If you’re anything like me, you are even now planning your next adventure in the Kita Alps. With this weekend’s forecast calling for occasional showers, however, short-distance hikes may be preferable to soggy treks (but that’s really up to you!) If you are planning a visit, you will find up to date weather reports to be a valuable resourse. Many websites offer long term forecasts, including this one: http://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Hotakadake/forecasts/3190
Remember, July is a prime time to visit Kamikochi, with the weather promising to warm up soon and the peak period of August still a month away. So, check the weather and pay us a visit in the near future. We will gladly questions or concerns you might have on our facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/kamikochi).
Sources of Information:
Shirakabaso Hotel website: http://shirakabaso.com/
Taishoike Hotel website: http://www.taisyoike.co.jp