1-Day Tateyama-Kurobe Tour: Walking on the 'Roof of Japan'
Active
8h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour takes you to the 'Roof of Japan' in summer and autumn to experience in the stunning and lush alpine landscape and one of Japan’s three sacred mountains, Mount Tate. 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.
Available options
Starting from Nagano Station
Nagano Station: Nagano Station at the Information Board, directly across from the shinkansen (bullet train) ticket gates at 08:30
What's included
Transport to/from all listed destinations
English-speaking guide
Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route ticket
Detailed itinerary
1
Situated in the dramatic alpine landscape of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route traverses Japan’s highest mountain range and in doing so carries visitors to the so-called ‘Roof of Japan’. Using mountain transports to and from the Nagano-side of the mountain range, you will ascend to around 2450 metres above sea level and Murodo Station using a series of tunnel buses, cable cars and ropeways.
The journey will take you from the base station to Kurobe Dam – an epic feat of engineering – before heading further above to the stop station of Murodo. Once at Murodo, your guide will accompany you on a guided walk of a leisurely trail in the shadow of the mountain summit above at 3000 metres. This is a stunning landscape of alpine flowers in summer – July to August – followed by some of Japan’s most stunning autumn colours – September to October.
What's not included
Lunch
Other food, snacks & drinks
Accommodation
Shinkansen/Bullet Train tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At its highest point, this tour transports guests to over 2500 metres above sea level and spends a considerable amount of time outside. The temperature is likely to be notably cooler than in the valley and cities below. Average day-time temperatures are as follows: Average day-time temperatures are as follows: July 11 to 16°C / August 12 to 18°C / September 9 to 15°C / October 3 to 10°C / November -5 to 2°C. Please dress appropriately for those temperatures and note that weather conditions can change quickly. Ensure you bring a waterproof jacket, hat and wear good quality shoes or boots.
The sun can be strong at the summit therefore please ensure you have a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Please also carry water or something to drink (noting there are chances to buy bottled drinks along the way).
This tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for mobility-impaired travels. 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. Snacks 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 (0-5) are free of charge.
If there are no guests joining for Hakuba, the tour will run approximately 1 hour faster with an estimated end time in Nagano of between 17:30 to 18:30. Guests wishing to book onward train tickets should do so for services after 19:30. If the tour returns early, it should be possible to change your train time at the ticket office.
The tour application deadline is 2 days before the tour date at 17:00.
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 meeting point is in front of the Information Board, directly opposite the shinkansen ticket gates at 8:15. Your guide will be wearing a 'Snow Monkey Resorts' tour tag.
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
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)
