13. Azusagawa (Nagano)

Photographer’s comments: In winter, the mountain resort of Kami-Kōchi is a place of seclusion and quiet, dominated by deep piles of snow and the pure waters of the Azusagawa. During that season, all traffic to the area is cut off, and it is hard to believe that this is the same place that is so crowded and lively in the summer.

River data: From its source in Mt. Yari in the Hida mountain range, the river flows through Kami-Kōchi before entering the city of Matsumoto and merging with the Chikumagawa and becoming the Saigawa. The name reflects the fact that this region was once renowned as a famous center for fine-quality azusa (Japanese cherry birch) wood. Length (Azusagawa and Saigawa combined): 152 km.