Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Afternoon Tour (Depart: Iiyama & Nozwa)
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, named after the plumes of steam shooting out of the ground. Not as scary as it sounds, however, it is a truly memorable experience safe for all ages.
After visiting the Monkeys we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. This village was frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsens in town.
As you stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, some hundreds of years old, you might just get to see some more wild monkeys as they try to scavenge food!
Our professional, experienced, English-speaking staff can offer a bilingual service that ensures peace of mind and an unforgettable day tour to your already memorable holiday in Japan!
Available options
Nozawa Onsen Pickup
Duration: 5 hours: Winter (Dec~Mar): Depart 13:00 / Return 17:30 (4.5 hours)
Green Season (Apr~Nov): Depart 13:00 / Return 18:00 (5 hours) <br/>Starting point:<br/>Nozawa Onsen (Chuo Terminal), Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Iiyama Station Pickup
Duration: 5 hours: Winter (Dec~Mar): Depart 13:20 / Return 17:10 (4 hours)
Green Season (Apr~Nov): Depart 13:20 / Return 17:40 (4.5 hours) <br/>Starting point:<br/>Iiyama Station, Japan, 389-2253 Nagano, Iiyama, 枡ノ浦
What's included
WiFi on board
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guided walks in Shibu Onsen
Monkey Park Entry Tickets
Stop over at the spring water spot (Green season only)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
See the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Monkey Park, named for the plumes of steam rising from the ground, as if from hell itself! Despite the name, this is a fun and unforgettable trip for the whole family. The driver guide will provide information about all points of interest during the bus trip, and will provide further information within the park itself! Please be aware that since the monkeys are wild, they may not appear in the park during the autumn season (late September to late November).
2
[CLOSED on SUNDAY]
Sake & Beer brewery. The ground floor is a shop area, 2nd floor is a traditional art gallery. During winter, you may freely visit it instead of the guided walk in Shibu Onsen.
3
[Most Stores are CLOSED on WEDNESDAYS] Shibu Onsen is a traditional Onsen town, full of rich culture, beautiful narrow backstreets, and of course, the 9 public onsen. Sometimes some wild monkeys can even show up to cause trouble!
This section of the tour is a guided walking tour. If you would prefer to take independent action rather than join the tour, you may do so to relax in an onsen or walk around by yourself.
4
[Mid-APR ~ NOV ONLY]
Kokugon-ji is a temple in the countryside of Nakano, originally built in the year 825. The temple is home to a well now recognised as one of Shinshu's famous waters. It is considered to be enmeisui, or water capable of extending your life! Despite the quiet and little-known location, the temple is surrounded by over 1000 cherry blossom trees, making it a stunning location during the spring.
What's not included
Luggage Space
Lunch
Umbrella / Rainwear
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
39 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.6
9 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is not allowed to bring Luggage (No luggage space in a vehcile). Please use coin lockers or storage service at the tourist information center in Iiyama Station..
Pickup time at Iiyama Station may be delayed if the participants are not coming on time at the first pickup point, Nozawa Onsen.
Return time at Iiyama Station will be 17:10~17:30 (Purchasing a train ticket before 17:30 is not recommended, the return time is subject to change depending on delays/weather conditions)
Return time at Nozawa Onsen will be 17:30~18:00 (subject to change depending on delays/condition of day)
Total duration depart/return from Iiyama: 3 hrs 50 mins ~ 4 hrs 20 mins
Total duration depart/return from Nozawa Onsen: 4 hrs 30 mins ~ 5 hrs
Rain gears are needed to be arranged by paricipants.
In the event of damages (vomiting etc.) which require the vehicle to be out of service for a duration and are caused by your party, a fee of up to ¥30,000 may be incurred.
Please be aware that a medium level of fitness is required for about 2 km walk (one-way) to/from the park.
Most shops in Shibu Onsen are closed on Wednesdays
Tamamura Honten (the brewery) is closed on Sundays
The type of vehicle for the tour depends on the number of participants and can not be confirmed until the tour date.
Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking for 2km (30 mins) to/from the Monkey Park (Total 4 km / 1 hr)
Not recommended for families with infants or small children during winter, due to the added difficulty of the walk up to the monkey park. We also are unable to take strollers onto the bus. For customers who have small children, we recommend the Private Tour.
Meeting point
Our tour bus/van will arrive in front of the Tourist Information Center. Pickup time may be delayed / early, depending on the time of the participants showing up at the first pickup point, Nozawa Onsen. Shinkansen arrive at 13:02 from Tokyo & Nagano / 12:13 from Kanazawa.
Important notes
For Chuo Terminal, 県道 38 号線, 豊郷 野沢温泉村 下高井郡 長野県 389-2502, Japan
This is the map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cfQyUvWsD54RBYXdA
For Iiyama Station, Japan, 389-2253 Nagano, Iiyama, 枡ノ浦
This is the map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/wHQE1GPSgkxWvoVv6
In front of the Tourist Information Center. Pickup time may be delayed if the participants are not coming on time at the first pickup point.
About Nagano
Nagano, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its role in the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, stunning mountain landscapes, and world-class ski resorts. The city is a gateway to some of Japan's most famous hot springs and ancient temples.
Top Attractions
Zenko-ji Temple
Zenko-ji is one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of Nagano's spiritual heritage.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani
The Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani are a famous attraction, known for their unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.
Nature
Half day to full day
¥800 (adults) or ¥400 (children)
Nagano Olympic Museum
This museum commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympics held in Nagano. It features exhibits on the history of the Olympics, the events held in Nagano, and the athletes who participated.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥500 (adults) or ¥200 (children)
Togakushi Shrine
Togakushi Shrine is a complex of three shrines dedicated to the Shinto goddess of archery. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.
Religious
Half day
Free (donations appreciated)
Shiga Kogen
Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, known for its extensive ski runs, modern facilities, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Adventure
Full day or overnight
¥4,000 - ¥6,000 (lift tickets)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Soba Noodles
Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are a staple of Nagano's cuisine. They can be served hot or cold, with various toppings and dipping sauces.
Dish
Vegetarian (if no meat or fish toppings are added)
Oyaki
Oyaki are dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular snack in Nagano and are often served with meals.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Sake
Nagano is known for its high-quality sake, made from locally grown rice. The region has numerous sake breweries, offering a variety of flavors and styles.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Onsen Ryori
Onsen Ryori is a type of cuisine served in hot spring resorts. It typically consists of dishes made with local ingredients, such as vegetables, fish, and tofu, cooked in the hot spring water.
Dish
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Hot air ballooning
Hot spring bathing
Temple visiting
Shopping
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The city hosts numerous winter festivals and events. Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
-2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
28°F to 41°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Nagano is a generally safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon. However, travelers should still take precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Use reputable taxis and tour services.
Getting there
By air
- Nagano Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center
- Chubu Centrair International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from the city center
By train
Nagano Station
By bus
Nagano Station Bus Terminal, Zenko-ji Temple Bus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
The city bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Nagano, covering most areas of the city and connecting to major attractions. Buses are frequent and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Nagano
Togakushi
Shiga Kogen
Day trips
Shiga Kogen
50 km (31 miles) from Nagano • Full day or overnight
Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, offering a wide range of winter and summer activities. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Togakushi
20 km (12 miles) from Nagano • Half day
Togakushi is a rural area known for its ancient shrines, soba noodles, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
60 km (37 miles) from Nagano • Half day to full day
Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular destination for observing wild Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, in their natural habitat. The park is especially famous for the monkeys' unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.
Festivals
Nagano Winter Festival • February
Nagano Summer Festival • August
Togakushi Fire Festival • February 3rd
Pro tips
- Visit Zenko-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
- Try Togakushi's famous soba noodles at a local restaurant, such as Soba Koenji or Soba Nagano.
- Take a day trip to Shiga Kogen for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, depending on the season.
- Experience the Nagano Winter Festival in February for a unique and memorable cultural event.
- Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani in winter to see the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
