Kamikawa

Kamikawa is situated in a steep-sided valley carved through Taisetsu Highlands by the Ishikari River. The town fell into a steady decline after its heavy industries shuttered in the 1970s. However, Kamikawa is now enjoying a recovery thanks emerging small-scale industries and an influx of visitors to the neighbouring Daisetsuzan National Park. While not a major destination in itself, Kamikawa is a useful transit point and makes for a pleasant place to break up a journey and stock up on food or gas before heading to Sounkyo Onsen or destinations further east.

The town government's official site has a Japanese-only tourism section with integrated Google Translate.

By train:

Kamikawa Station is served by the Sekihoku Main Line with regular local trains to Asahikawa Station. There are also express services to Sapporo and Abashiri at least once daily. Kamikawa Station is the main point of access for rail passengers visiting Sounkyo Onsen and the northern section of Daisetsuzan National Park.

By bus:

All public buses running the route from Asahikawa to Sounkyo Onsen make a stop at Kamikawa Station. Some buses from Sapporo and Asahikawa to Monbetsu, Engaru, and Kitami in the Okhotsk region make scheduled stops in Kamikawa as well. These buses may only allow customers to board (and not disembark) at intermediary stops or vice-versa. Please confirm with the bus company before planning your itinerary.

By car:

Kamikawa is on a toll-free portion of the Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway. The town is also served by Japan National Route 39.

By bicycle:

The incomplete Asahikawa Sounkyo Bicycle Path passes through Kamikawa. In some sections it is merged with Japan National Route 39.