Matsumoto and the surrounding area is nestled in the 'Japan Alps', which makes it a popular destination for skiing, mountain climbing, and soaking in natural hot springs baths. While we were there, Japan Rail was promoting travel to the 'Shinshu' area (the traditional name for Nagano) and created the 'arukuma' mascot with a variety of headgear, depending on his activity. Here you can see him wearing a snowy mountain helmet.
We went to Kamikochi with one of my friends, after some worry about whether it would rain or not. As it turned out, the weather was fine for the afternoon and the leaves were a patchwork of changing colors.
My friend had researched Kappabashi, the famous bridge, and discovered that there is a live webcam. He waved to his wife and daughters, who were both at home suffering from colds brought on by sports day at school.
Perhaps you have heard of the snow monkeys? In nearly five years of living in Nagano Prefecture, I never saw them. All of a sudden, one came down the path.
We had a great walk doing the loop to Myojin Lake and back. Afterward, we drove back and picked up my friend's family for dinner at the amusingly named steakhouse chain, 'Bikkuri Donkey' ('surprise!')
His youngest perked up at the prospect of an ice cream sundae for dessert - a girl after my own heart.
All in all, a wonderful day: fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, wild animals, and good company!
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