Snow Monkey and Cherry Blossom Illumination Tour (3rd ~19th Apr)
Active
8h - 9h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start the day off by visiting the Snow Monkey Park. As winter comes to an end and temperatures slowly rise, this is the last chance to see the Snow Monkeys bathe in the hot springs this year!
Following the Snow Monkey Park, we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. It is not uncommon to see locals and visitors walking the streets in traditional clothing such as kimono and geta (wooden sandals).
Finally, end the night at Takada Castle. Takada Castle is one of the top 3 places in Japan to view cherry blossoms at night, featuring 4,000 sakura trees with spectacular illumination. Visitors can immerse themselves in the pale pink full bloom across the entire grounds. The lighting creates a mirror-like reflection of the trees on the placid moat waters. Additionally, the site hosts many food stalls offering treats like curry bread, yakisoba, and dango.
Available options
Iiyama Station Pickup
Duration: 8 hours: The duration of the tour is slightly shorter as Iiyama Station is closer to the Snow Monkey Park. This only affects travel.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Iiyama Station, Japan, 389-2253 Nagano, Iiyama, 枡ノ浦
Nozawa Onsen Pickup
Duration: 9 hours<br/>Starting point:<br/>Chuo Terminal, 県道 38 号線, 豊郷 野沢温泉村 下高井郡 長野県 389-2502, Japan
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Monkey Park Entry Tickets
Guided walks in Shibu Onsen and Takada Castle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
(13:50~14:30)See the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Snow 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.
2
(15:40~16:55) [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
(15:55~16:10) [STORES are CLOSED on WEDENSDY] Shibu Onsen is a traditional Onsen town, full of rich culture, beautiful narrow backstreets, and of course 9 public onsen. Sometimes some more wild monkeys can even show up to cause trouble!
This section of the tour is a guided walking tour. If you would prefer to relax in an onsen you may do so for only ¥500!
4
Takada Castle is rated as being within the top 3 places in all of Japan to view cherry blossoms at night, owing to its 4,000 sakura trees and spectacular illumination.
Explore the grounds of Takada Castle in wonder as you immerse yourself in the cherry blossoms that fill the entire area. With over 4,000 Sakura trees, no matter where you look you’ll be met with the incredible pale pink of the trees’ fleeting full bloom, and the lighting that accompanies them. The waters of the moat are placid with a mirror-like reflection of the trees, lightly agitated only by the sprinklers dotted around the water.
At the castle, there are also many food stalls to choose from, ranging from curry bread to yakisoba to dango!
What's not included
Lunch
Dinner
Luggage Space
Umbrella/Rainwear
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is included to the total duration of the product.
Most shops in Shibu Onsen are closed on Wednesdays
Tamamura Honten (the brewery) is closed on Sundays
May have to change to a smaller vehicle at Iiyama station on the way to Garyu Park as this tour is additional tour for our regular snow monkey tour
Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking for 2km to/from the Monkey Park
Meeting point
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
![[Nagano Day Trip] Togakushi Shrine & Jigokudani Monkey Park: Snow Monkey Walk & Sake Culture Experience (From Nagano)](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/ukyhyhpy5wizkkwfpvyg.jpg)
