Kamikawa, Mountain town in Kanzaki district, Japan.
Kamikawa is a town in Kanzaki district within Hyogo Prefecture, situated across mountainous terrain with forested slopes rising above 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) in elevation. Settlements developed along four river valleys that create natural corridors through the landscape.
The region once belonged to ancient Harima Province and was later divided between Himeji Domain and Tokugawa territories before taking its present form in 2005. This administrative reorganization shaped the boundaries of the area in modern times.
The town maintains agricultural roots that shape daily life, with local producers selling seasonal vegetables and regional products at community markets. These gatherings reflect how farming traditions remain central to the identity of those who live here.
The town is well served by public transportation, including the Bantan Line with several stations and National Route 312 for through travel. Visitors should account for the mountainous terrain when planning hikes or drives.
The area owes its character to four distinct river valleys - Odawara, Ichi, Ochi, and Inumi - that cut through the terrain and determined where settlements took root. These valleys continue to shape the character of the landscape and how people navigate it.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.