The gateway to Kamikochi and the Northern Japan Alps

The Sawando National Park Gate is a hub for visitors traveling to Kamikochi for sightseeing or trekking in the Northern Japanese Alps. It is one of the last places to park for drivers before entering Kamikochi—private vehicles are restricted in this area of Chubusangaku National Park, and regular buses shuttle visitors from Sawando to Kamikochi in 30 minutes. You can hire a taxi here, too.

Learn more about Chubusangaku National Park and get updates on hiking trail conditions, weather updates, and information on plants in bloom at the information counter located at the main building entrance. Exhibits detail the history and natural environment of Kamikochi in both Japanese and English.

Inside, you can observe and touch many of the taxidermy mounts of local species of bears, foxes, deer, and other animals. In the waiting room, visitors can watch a video and listen to audio in five languages about the rules and regulations for visitors to Kamikochi while waiting for shuttle buses and taxis.

Sawando National Park Gate is equipped with a large parking area, public toilets and wooden benches, and there is a convenience store across from the tourist information counter.