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Tour Availability:
- Dates: May 1st to November 4th, 2024 (Snow Monkey winter version also available).
- Frequency: Available every day. 48-hour advance booking required.
- Group Size: Minimum 4 people – Maximum 8 people.
1. Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park:
- Witness the world-famous snow monkeys, the only monkeys known to bathe in hot springs.
- Learn about the behavior and habitat of these unique primates.
2. Explore Shibu Onsen:
- Wander through the charming alleyways of Shibu Onsen, a town known for its traditional ryokan (inns) and public baths.
- Discover the history and cultural importance of onsen in Japan.
- Enjoy the photogenic scenery and historic architecture of the town.
3. Hot Springs (Onsen) Experience:
- Delve into the cultural practice of bathing in onsen, understanding its significance in Japanese life and the monkeys' story.
- Option to experience an onsen bath (subject to time and personal preference).
4. Sora Terrace:
- Take one of the world's biggest ropeways (166 people capacity) to reach Sora Terrace, a café situated at the top of the ski resort of Ryuoo.
- Experience breathtaking views, a beautiful sunset, and if the conditions are right, the phenomenon of the sea of clouds, in which being above the clouds gives the impression of watching the ocean.
5. Local Cuisine:
- Savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing regional dishes and flavors, and end the day enjoying a café or craft beer above the clouds.
Ideal For:
- Photographers seeking unique and captivating subjects.
- Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Individuals interested in Japanese culture, especially onsen traditions.
- Anyone looking to enjoy a one-day rural experience and escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
- Morning:
- 10:00am Meet your guide at Nagano station.
- Private transfer to Shibu Onsen and explore the town.
- Visit several historic public baths and learn about their significance.
- Midday:
- 13:00 Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon:
- 14:00 Walk the scenic forest road to Jigokudani Monkey Park.
- Spend time observing and photographing the snow monkeys.
- Late Afternoon:
- 17:00 Private transfer to Ryuoo Ski Park to take the ropeway to Sora Terrace.
- Enjoy the views and the sunset at the top of the mountain (1,770m)
- 19:00 Return to Nagano station
- Van transfers and pick-up and drop-off from/to Nagano station.
- Full-day english or spanish speaking guide.
- Ropeway round-trip ticket (¥2,400～) and Jigokudani Monkey Park ticket (¥800).
- Lunch, drinks, snacks etc not included.
- Onsen entry fee / towel rental
• Pick-up and drop-off points can be changed for those staying in Nagano city area.
• Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially during early spring/autumn months.
• The onsen experience may require additional entry fees and adherence to onsen etiquette.
• While commonly called “snow monkeys”, they also gather in the park and bath in the hot springs all year round. The monkeys are wild. As such, they come and go from the park as they please and I cannot guarantee they will be there at any given time. Their behaviour is however very reliable and it is unusual for them not to come to the park. The middle of the day is the most reliable time and for that reason, that is when I take my guests to the park. As a private tour, we have the flexibility to change the itinerary including heading to the park earlier, later or for a longer period based on the behaviour of the monkeys.
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