The municipal government of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, is advancing plans to charge entry fees for visitors and hikers at the Kamikochi highland resort. This move aims to address growing pressure from increasing tourist numbers while raising funds for landscape conservation and disaster prevention measures.
According to local officials, the entry fee could be introduced as early as fiscal year 2028. Revenue will be used to preserve the natural beauty of Kamikochi, one of Japan’s most famous destinations known for its majestic mountain scenery and pristine river valleys.
Located within Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, especially during summer and autumn. The surge in tourism has created environmental challenges, including soil erosion, waste accumulation, and increased landslide risk. The fee is expected to alleviate these burdens and ensure the area’s sustainable development.
Currently, discussions are ongoing among local authorities, national park managers, and other stakeholders to determine the specific fee amount and collection method. The fee will likely apply to all visitors, including hikers and climbers, with the goal of raising necessary resources for long-term preservation efforts.
