Kamikōchi is a remote mountainous highland in the western region of Nagano Prefecture, Japan, which has been preserved in its natural state. It has been designated as one of Japan’s National Cultural Assets. Lake Taishō received its name because it was formed by the eruption of Mt. Yake in 1915, during the Taishō period in Japan. The view of withered trees standing in the lake in the morning haze creates a mystical atmosphere. Lake Taishō is one of the most popular scenic places in Kamikōchi. Kamikouchi has been painted many times.

Katō Tomo has created many paintings of Kamikōchi. This is a colored painting of Kamikōchi. The snow-covered surface of the mountain is expressed splendidly with the “gofun” (white pigment). By subtly using gold paint on the background, the painter gives a mysterious atmosphere to the mountain. It allows for more depth to create a perspective for the withered trees standing in the foreground.