Nagano Nature & adventure

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).

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.

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

The tour begins at JR Nagano Station at 8:15 AM. Your guide will greet all guests and quickly have you on your way toward the historic city of Matsumoto. Arriving around 09:45 AM, your guide will lead you to Matsumoto Castle one of Nagano’s most impressive cultural sites, known for its structural beauty set against a splendid mountain backdrop. Before making your way to the castle. Explore the famous "Frog Street" Nawate-Dori. Home to more than 50 shops, restaurants, and cafes most famous for selling all things frog-related. At the castle you will be guided into the castle grounds as your guide reveals the history and features which make it so lauded, before giving you time to explore for yourself. It’s then time to head high into the mountains, as you are transported into the Northern Alps and onto Kamikochi. Situated 1500 meters above sea level deep within the Chubu Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is famous for its pristine natural state, beautiful rivers and ponds, lush forests, and dramatic mountain peaks rising to over 3000 meters. The next few hours are yours to enjoy as choose. You can choose to stroll further along the river or sit at a café or restaurant, and simply take in the view. At 5:30 PM the tour bus will depart and begin the journey back toward Nagano.

Meet your guide at JR Nagano Station and board the tour bus to begin your journey to the fabled Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Arriving at Ogisawa Station around 10:15, prepare for your ascent before boarding the Kanden Tunnel trolley bus at 11:00, the first of a variety of mountain transports you will utilize to reach the summit. Your first stop is the Kurobe Dam. Constructed between 1956 and 1963, this immense structure required the labor of up to 10 million people and is Japan's highest dam. A source of national pride and emblematic of man's attempts to conquer nature, enjoy some time to admire the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains before starting the next leg of your journey toward the summit. Next, head to the Tateyama Ropeway. Spanning 1700 meters, you will be transported upward to the final stop of Daikanbo, before taking the final trolley bus to Murodo. At 2450 meters, this is Japan's highest station – an isolated outpost in an inhospitable, dramatic landscape. Stroll through the iconic snow corridor which rises up 20 meters above you. Enjoy 1.5 to 2 hours of free time to stroll around the area, with enough time to visit the museums before beginning the journey back to Nagano.

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.

❑ A Fun, Uniquely Japanese Experience Meet Japan’s famous snow monkeys in their natural habitat — soaking in hot springs in the mountains of Nagano. It’s a rare and fascinating glimpse into an animal society that feels both human and eccentric. ❑ Why Keep It Private? Public transportation to the Snow Monkey Park requires hours and multiple transfers. Nearby eateries are often crowded or serve pre-made meals. With your own private car and guide, travel and dining are relaxed, smooth, and on your schedule. ❑ Make the Most of Your Visit While you’re there, take advantage of nearby hidden gems: ・Seasonal specialties like Nagano Wagyu and handmade soba ・A local market with fresh fruits and produce ・Sushi lunch with a local chef and sake tasting ・Same-day visit to Togakushi Shrine or a historic hot spring town said to have inspired a Studio Ghibli film ❑ Travel at Your Own Pace Skip the crowds and rigid schedules. With an English-speaking guide and private vehicle, you’ll enjoy insider knowledge, flexibility, and a more memorable experience — tailored just for you.

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.

Experience the essence of Nagano Prefecture with our exclusive full-day private tour, designed to immerse you in the cultural and natural wonders of this region. Our itinerary ensures you spend one hour at each captivating destination or you can Customized itineraries maximize enjoyment and ensure a personalized journey. Zenko-ji Temple: Begin your day with a visit to Zenko-ji Temple, a spiritual haven and one of Japan's most important pilgrimage sites. Jigokudani Monkey Park: Journey to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs—a unique and unforgettable sight. Obuse: Explore the charming town of Obuse, renowned for its traditional miso production and historical significance. Nagano Prefecture: Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Nagano Prefecture as you travel through its picturesque landscapes. Matsushiro Castle Ruins: Step back in time at Matsushiro Castle Ruins, a testament to Nagano's feudal past and a site of historical intrigue. Shibu Onsen: Conclude your journey at Shibu Onsen, a historic hot spring village known for its relaxing waters and traditional architecture. This meticulously planned tour ensures you experience the best of Nagano's cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical landmarks, all in the comfort of a private setting with expert guidance throughout your exploration.