(Spring Only) 1-Day Snow Walls of Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route Tour

Nagano , Japan

(Spring Only) 1-Day Snow Walls of Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route Tour

Active

(75 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

With two pickup points in both Nagano City, this tour takes you to the 'Roof of Japan' and the fabled Snow Walls of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Situated in the dramatic alpine landscape of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, this is one of Japan’s most iconic and unique sights, accessible only in spring and early summer and via a series of different mountain transports. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will be accompanied on every leg of your journey to the 'Roof of Japan' and back down again – the perfect way to experience one of Japan’s more remote and stunning landscapes.

Available options

From Nagano Station

What's included

Tateyama Kurrobe Alpine Route return ticket to / from Ogizawa

Transportation to / from all listed destinations

English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Starting and ending in Nagano City, this tour takes you to the “Roof of Japan” and the fabled Snow Walls of the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route. Situated in the dramatic alpine landscape of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, this is one of Japan’s most iconic and unique sights, accessible only in spring and early summer and via a series of different mountain transports. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will be accompanied on every leg of your journey to the Roof of Japan and back down again - the perfect way to experience one of Japan`s more remote and stunning landscapes.

What's not included

Lunch & other snacks or drinks

Shinkansen/ 'Bullet Train' tickets to & from Nagano

Accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

67 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please wear suitable shoes for walking through snow and cold conditions (with the possibility of temperatures below 0°C).

Please bring sunglasses as the snow in combination with sunlight can produce intense glare. We also recommend wearing snowboots or good quality walking boots, if you wish to walk on the snowfields.

This tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for mobility-impaired travellers. Should you have any concerns about your ability to join the tour, please contact us to discuss prior to booking.

This tour does not include lunch. Food can be purchased at different mountain stations with different restaurants to choose from at the summit.

In case of extreme weather conditions, routes to the snow corridor might close. In such a case, the tour will be cancelled with full refund.

The itinerary is based on the traffic conditions being optimal. We will adjust the schedule according to traffic conditions and pace of the group on the day of the tour.

Infants (aged 0-5) are free of charge. As a result, we cannot guarantee that a seat on the tour transport will be available for infants and they may be required to sit in the lap of an adult.

Given the popularity of the Alpine Route and the need to wait for transports on busy days, we cannot guarantee the end time of the tour however it should be no later than 19:00. We ask that all guests cooperate with the instructions of the guide, including meetup times for transports, to avoid any chance of delay.

All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Meeting point

The meetup point is inside the station, in front of the Information Board directly across from the Shinkansen ticket gates. Be sure to look for the guide wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag. Please ensure you are there prior to the meetup time as the tour will need to depart by 08:20.

Important notes

• The itinerary is based on the traffic conditions being optimal. We will adjust the schedule according to traffic conditions and pace of the group on the day of the tour.
• In case of extreme weather conditions, routes to the snow corridor might close. In such a case, the tour will be cancelled with full refund.
•

The start and finish of the tour are arranged according to the bullet train (called Hokuriku Shinkansen) timetable. See below for specific timetables on the bullet train departure and arrival times to/from Nagano Station.

Departing Tokyo Station – Arriving Nagano Station:

Tokyo: 06:28 – Nagano: 08:06 – Hakutaka

Tokyo: 06:52 – Nagano: 08:40 – Asama

Tokyo: 07:20 – Nagano: 08:43 – Kagayaki (reserved seats only) *
*You can still take 07:20 – 08:43 train since JR Nagano Station isn’t big at all and there is only one Shinkansen ticket exit. The tour meet-up is just after the Shinkansen ticket exit so please come straight up to there.

Departing Nagano Station – Arriving Tokyo Station:

Nagano: 19:08 – Tokyo: 20:52 – Asama

Nagano: 19:38 – Tokyo: 21:16 – Hakutaka

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.