Yamanochi

Tours

Take in some of the highlights of Nagano on this engaging tour starting with a visit to Zenko-ji Temple – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan – followed by sake-tasting and lunch at a local restaurant. It’s then time to head to the world-renowned Snow Monkey Park! This troop of monkeys are the only monkeys in the world known to bathe in hot springs. Watching them live their best life in close proximity is a wonderful experience unlike any other. Led by a locally based English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to see the best that Nagano has to offer. Meet your tour guide at Nagano Station at 9:35 AM. For guests traveling from Hakuba, from December through March, your journey can begin with a shuttle from Hakuba Tokyu Hotel (Wadano area) at 7:40 AM OR Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal at 7:55 AM. Please be at your chosen pickup point in advance of the meetup time as the tour must depart on-time. (WINTER ONLY) Once the 09:35 timeslot is fully booked out for the standard Nagano Station pickup option at 09:35, we will potentially open an additional timeslot to join the tour from Nagano Station at 09:00 so please double check your booking timeslot when joining from Nagano Station, as it may be this earlier 09:00 start. This tour is scheduled to conclude at Nagano Station by 17:30 (and by 18:45 for guests joining from Hakuba in winter).

Explore the Nagano Prefecture on a tour of the Snow Monkey Park with pickup and drop-off in Tokyo. See the snow monkeys bathing in a natural spring, enjoy lunch at a local Japanese restaurant. Take the coach from central Tokyo to arrive in the Nagano Prefecture in time for lunch. Savor a delicious meal of Japanese food, featuring a beef sukiyaki dish. After lunch, head to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, admire the Japanese Macaques up close as they bathe in hot thermal springs. The tour will finish with drop-off back in central Tokyo.

Experience a luxurious private day tour to Nagano's famous Snow Monkeys, spending 1 hour at each location. Travel in comfort with an expert English-speaking driver, customizing your itinerary to suit your preferences. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus air-conditioned transport, complimentary Wi-Fi, highway fees, fuel, and refreshments such as water, tea, or coffee. Visit the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, famous for the wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) that soak in natural hot springs, especially in winter. Observe these monkeys in their natural habitat, with the dramatic backdrop of a snow-covered landscape. Explore the grand architecture and tranquil gardens of the Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most important and ancient Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. The temple also houses the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan, making it a significant spiritual site. Stroll through the charming traditional hot spring town of Shibu Onsen, with over 1,300 years of history. Soak in one of the many public hot springs for a relaxing cultural experience. Relax in a hot spring or enjoy a walk through the peaceful, authentic Japanese town of Yudanaka Onsen, known for its traditional baths and proximity to Jigokudani. Stop for lunch and soak in the local atmosphere. Visit the small, picturesque town of Obuse, famous for chestnuts, art galleries, and traditional Japanese architecture. Visit the Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, or try local delicacies such as chestnut sweets. Explore the Togakushi Shrine, a series of ancient Shinto shrines located in the lush Togakushi mountains. Explore the peaceful shrine complex surrounded by towering cedar trees. Togakushi is also known for its soba (buckwheat noodles), so it's an excellent place to stop for a meal. Wander through traditional samurai residences and explore Matsushiro Castle in the preserved historical area of the Matsushiro Samurai District, once home to a powerful samurai clan. Visit Lake Nojiri, a serene lake surrounded by mountains, offering stunning views and seasonal activities. Perfect for a quiet retreat or for enjoying outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and nature walks.

Embark on a soul-stirring journey with our Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple Tour, an enchanting blend of natural wonders and spiritual serenity. Begin your adventure by venturing into the heart of Nagano's wilderness, where the captivating Snow Monkey Park awaits. Marvel at the playful antics of the Japanese macaques as they frolic in the soothing hot springs amidst a backdrop of snow-laden forests. After immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, delve into the spiritual realm with a visit to Zenkoji Temple, a revered Buddhist sanctuary dating back over 1,400 years. Explore the temple's hallowed halls, adorned with ancient artifacts and intricate architecture, as our knowledgeable guides illuminate the rich history and cultural significance of this sacred site. As you wander through the temple grounds, partake in traditional rituals and ceremonies, offering moments of reflection and introspection. Take in the serene atmosphere and embrace the profound sense of peace that permeates this sacred space. With a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual enlightenment, our Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple Tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and connected to the essence of Japan's cultural and natural heritage.

Glorious travels offers a luxurious Snow Monkey Day Tour in Nagano, traveling in comfort with premium vehicles like the Vellfire, Land Cruiser, and Crown. Your adventure begins with a visit to the historic Zenko-ji Temple, where you'll have an hour to explore its rich cultural heritage and serene surroundings. Next, delve into the past at Matsushiro Castle Ruins, spending an hour uncovering the remnants of this samurai stronghold. Continue your journey to the quaint and picturesque Shibu Onsen. Here, you'll have an hour to soak in the traditional atmosphere and perhaps even dip your toes into the onsen waters, famed for their healing properties. The highlight of your tour awaits at Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you’ll spend an hour observing the enchanting snow monkeys in their natural habitat, frolicking in the hot springs. Finally, you'll visit the charming town of Obuse. Spend an hour wandering its lovely streets, sampling local delicacies, and appreciating its artistic and historical treasures. This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical discovery, and natural beauty, all experienced in the utmost comfort of our luxurious vehicles

Experience Nagano's natural and spiritual wonders on a private tour of the Snow Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple. Customize your itinerary, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Tokyo. Travel in comfort with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and complimentary water, tea, or coffee. Begin your day with pickup from your hotel and travel to Nagano in a luxury Car , Van and Suv,s (Prices of every Vehicles Mentioned in Product Options, please confirm prices before you book the tour). Customize your itinerary, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel. Travel in comfort with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and complimentary water, tea, or coffee. Visit the Zenko-ji Temple, a national treasure and the most important temple in Nagano. Explore the temple and its grounds, including the main hall, the Niomon Gate, and the Sanmon Gate. Next, head to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to the famous snow monkeys. See the monkeys bathing in the hot springs and playing in the snow. Afterward, visit the town of Obuse, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and chestnut trees. Stroll through the town and visit the Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the famous Japanese artist. Continue to the Shibu Onsen, a charming hot spring town with narrow streets and traditional ryokan inns. Take a walk around the town and see the 9 public baths, each with its own unique design. Next, visit the Matsushiro Castle Ruins, the former residence of the Sanada Clan. Explore the ruins and learn about the history of the castle. Finally, visit the town of Yamanochi, known for its beautiful natural scenery. Take a walk around the town and see the traditional wooden buildings.

Experience the cultural and natural wonders of Nagano Prefecture on a captivating day tour that showcases its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey at Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano City, an ancient Buddhist temple dating back over 1,400 years. Explore its revered halls and the hidden Amida Buddha statue, a symbol of spiritual devotion and pilgrimage. Next, venture into the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, delight visitors by bathing in natural hot springs amidst snow-covered mountains. Witness their playful antics and capture the serene beauty of this unique wildlife sanctuary. Continue to the picturesque town of Obuse, steeped in artistic heritage and renowned for its ties to the legendary artist Katsushika Hokusai. Visit the Hokusai Museum to admire his iconic works, including "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," and explore the town's traditional streets lined with sake breweries and shops offering local specialties like "kuri manju," sweet chestnut-filled buns. Delve into Nagano's feudal past at Matsushiro Castle Ruins, once a strategic stronghold of the Sanada clan during Japan's Warring States period. Wander through the remains of the castle complex, discovering stone walls and defensive structures that speak of centuries-old military history and samurai traditions. Conclude your day tour in Shibu Onsen, a serene village renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and traditional ryokan inns. Immerse yourself in the restorative waters at one of the many public bathhouses, each offering a unique bathing experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Japanese Alps. This day trip through Nagano Prefecture offers a harmonious blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, providing unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, historical intrigue, artistic inspiration, or simply relaxation in natural hot springs, Nagano promises to captivate and inspire with its diverse attractions and timeless charm.

This tour takes you from JR Nagano Station to the world-famous Jigokudani snow monkeys and to some of the most beloved cherry blossom viewing spots in Nagano. Seeing the blooming cherry blossoms (called hanami in Japanese) is one of the most Japanese things one can do whilst being in the land of the rising sun. Located in a chilly, mountainous region, northern Nagano’s blossoms start blooming later than those in cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. Every year, the blossoms normally come into bloom from the middle of April. Nagano is not as famous as an aforementioned city but has many lovely places where you can see the brightly colored flowers. If you wish to get off the beaten track and see the wild monkeys and cherry blossoms on the same day, this tour is perfect for you. First, you will be taken to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe the wild Japanese macaques at an incredibly close distance. April is generally the month when newborn babies arrive to the Jigokudani monkey troop. Usually there are 20 to 30 babies born every spring, and it’s endearing to see the newborns taking their first step and climb. After being filled by a Japanese lunch, the tour will take you to the hanami spots where cherry blossoms can be seen. The spots are selected depending on the degree of bloom of the blossoms on the tour date. Each spot has different types of cherry blossoms with overall more than 500 to 1000 sakura trees. Experience the yearly tradition to welcome spring in full. After enjoying the cherry blossoms, you will be taken to the train that takes you back to JR Nagano Station. The tour is scheduled to conclude at JR Nagano Station by 6:30 PM. Don’t miss this special opportunity to witness Japan’s beautiful spring.

## **Overview** Visit the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, one of the few places in the world where you can see wild monkeys bathing in hot springs. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, these adorable snow monkeys are a must-see. For lunch, your guide will recommend and assist with checking availability for local restaurants where you can enjoy Nagano's specialties, including soba noodles, tempura, wagyu beef, horse meat, and miso katsu. ### **Schedule (Example)** - **09:00** Meet at Nagano Station and depart - **10:00** Arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, explore and observe - **12:00** Lunch (local specialties) - **14:00** Return to places where guest wants and finish the tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks. This guided tour takes you to some of the most iconic and serene locations in and around Nikko. Ideal for groups of up to 6 people, this experience offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and adventure. Begin your day at the stunning Lake Chūzenji, surrounded by breathtaking mountains. Enjoy a peaceful walk by the lakeside, capture beautiful photos, and dive into the area’s history with your knowledgeable guide. Marvel at the magnificent Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. Take in the views from multiple angles and learn about its fascinating geological formation. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, home to one of Japan's most lavishly decorated shrines. Learn about its historical importance and admire the intricate architecture that dates back centuries. Ride the ropeway to an observation deck offering panoramic views of the region, including Kegon Falls and the mountains surrounding Lake Chūzenji. Capture the beauty of the sacred Shinkyo Bridge, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Japan. Its vivid red color creates a striking contrast with the surrounding nature. Step back in time and experience the Edo period through live performances, samurai shows, and historical reenactments at Edo Wonderland. Perfect for history lovers and families. Conclude your tour with a visit to Ashikaga Flower Park, known for its mesmerizing wisteria gardens. Stroll through the park’s vibrant displays of seasonal flowers, and soak in the beauty of one of Japan’s most stunning horticultural sites.