Discover Nagano: Private Snow Monkeys & Zenkoji Temple Day Excursion

Join us on a delightful day trip to explore the wonders of Nagano, where you'll get up close with the enchanting snow monkeys and delve into the rich history of Zenko-ji Temple. Your adventure starts with a convenient pickup in a private vehicle, either from Nagano Station or your hotel in Nagano City, setting the stage for a day filled with unique experiences and discoveries. Our first destination is the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can witness the fascinating behaviour of the wild Japanese macaques as they bask in the natural hot springs, offering a rare and unforgettable wildlife encounter.

After enjoying the playful antics of the snow monkeys, we'll indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of Nagano's culinary delights. The journey continues as we meander through the quaint streets of Obuse, a town that captivates with its Edo-period charm and historical ambiance. We'll then immerse ourselves in the spiritual atmosphere of Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most significant Buddhist temples, rich in history and cultural significance. 

To round off your Nagano experience, we'll introduce you to the world of Japanese sake with a guided tasting session, where you'll learn about this traditional beverage's intricacies, with non-alcoholic options ensuring everyone can join in the fun. This tour is your gateway to experiencing the cultural and natural beauty of Nagano, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tour Highlights:

• Private transportation from Nagano Station or any local hotel

• Visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park to see the snow monkeys

• Lunch at a traditional local restaurant

• Exploration of Obuse's Edo-period architecture

• Tour of the historic Zenko-ji Temple

• Sake tasting experience with options for all preferences

What’s Covered

• Private transportation with a driver

• Entry to Snow Monkey Park

• Lunch with vegetarian choices

• Guided tours of Zenko-ji, sake tasting, Obuse, and Monkey Park

• Service of an English-speaking guide

What’s Extra

• Extra meals, snacks, and beverages

• Entrance to Zenko-ji Temple's inner sanctuary

• Bullet train fares

• Overnight stay arrangements

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Substantial walking involved (1.6 km each way) on an unsealed trail; appropriate footwear required.

• Tour is not wheelchair accessible; may not suit those with mobility impairments.

• Transportation varies (microbus, coach, or train) based on season and group size.

• Winter conditions (mid-December to early-April) necessitate warm clothing and suitable footwear; rental options available.

• Monkey sightings in hot springs are common in winter but not guaranteed year-round.

• Occasional days may occur without monkey appearances in the park.

• Lunch venue is Monzen Terrace Enya or similar; subject to change with menu variations.

• Sake tasting included; must be 20+ years for alcohol consumption.

• Infants (0-5 years) join free but without a dedicated lunch or seat; may need to sit on a guardian's lap, especially in winter.

• Tour pricing varies by chosen pickup and drop-off locations, reflecting travel distances.

Meeting Points

Guests can be picked up at any designated location within Nagano City. Please specify your preferred pickup point when booking.

Note: We also provide the flexibility of starting this one-day private tour from any of Nagano's 5 main ski resorts - Nozawa Onsen, Madarao, Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, and Myoko Kogen. The tour can then conclude at your choice of either Nagano City or any of these 5 ski resorts.

Related Read: Nagano's Alpine Adventures: Skiing, Snow Monkeys, and Beyond