Private Snow Monkey Zenkoji Temple Sightseeing Day Tour

Nagano’s natural wonders and cultural treasures await on this private sightseeing tour. Guests will marvel at the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani, observe the centuries-old traditions at Zenkoji Temple, and explore the historic Matsushiro Castle Ruins. With a customizable itinerary and an English-speaking guide, travelers can enjoy the region’s beauty and uncover its rich heritage. Whether seeking an intimate encounter with wildlife or a deeper appreciation for Japan’s timeless customs, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that leaves one eager to discover more.

Key Points

• The tour offers a fully customizable one-day guided experience to visit the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano.
• The tour includes private transportation and an English-speaking guide, with optional visits to the Matsushiro Castle Ruins and the Shibu Onsen hot spring town.
• Guests can observe the Japanese macaques bathing in the natural hot springs and explore the impressive architecture and cultural richness of Zenkoji Temple.
• The tour is available for groups of up to 5 people, with flexible pickup and drop-off options from Tokyo or Yokohama.
• The tour price starts from £17,410 with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

This private day tour offers a full-day guided experience in the Nagano area, and it’s fully customizable to suit your preferences.

The tour lasts one day and provides pickup and drop-off options from Tokyo or Yokohama.

Key highlights include a visit to the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you’ll have the chance to take photos, explore the park, and enjoy a guided tour and scenic drive.

The tour also takes you to Zenkoji Temple for sightseeing, food tasting, and a visit to the local food market.

Plus, you’ll explore the Matsushiro Castle Ruins with a guided tour.

An optional stop at Shibu Onsen is also available.

Private transportation and an English-speaking guide are included.

Highlights of the Tour

What truly makes this tour a highlight is the opportunity to visit the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where guests can observe the captivating snow monkeys in their natural habitat. The tour includes a photo stop, guided tour, and scenic walk through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy the monkeys’ world.

Plus, the tour explores the historic Zenkoji Temple, offering a chance to explore the temple grounds, participate in a food tasting, and visit the local food market.

Lastly, guests can opt to visit the picturesque Matsushiro Castle Ruins, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing. With a fully customizable itinerary, this Nagano tour promises an unforgettable Japanese cultural experience.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Visitors can explore the iconic Jigokudani Monkey Park, renowned for its population of Japanese macaques, also known as the ‘snow monkeys,’ that bathe in the natural hot springs during the colder months.

The park offers a guided tour, allowing guests to witness the monkeys up close and snap memorable photos.

During the scenic drive and walk to the park, visitors can enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes.

The tour also includes ample time for sightseeing and exploring the park’s trails, providing a unique opportunity to observe the snow monkeys in their natural habitat.

This immersive experience is a highlight of the Nagano tour, offering a glimpse into the captivating world of these fascinating primates.

Zenkoji Temple

The Zenkoji Temple, a revered Buddhist temple located in the heart of Nagano, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual heritage.

This historic site, dating back to the 7th century, is renowned for its impressive architecture, intricate artwork, and deep-rooted traditions.

Visitors can explore the temple’s main hall, which houses a hidden, iconic image of Buddha, and witness the intricate rituals and ceremonies that take place throughout the day.

The temple’s surrounding area also features a vibrant food market, where visitors can savor delicious local delicacies and enjoy the bustling energy of the community.

With its blend of spiritual serenity and cultural richness, Zenkoji Temple is a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand the essence of Japanese tradition.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Matsushiro Castle Ruins

Although less renowned than the famous Zenkoji Temple, the Matsushiro Castle Ruins offer visitors a captivating glimpse into Nagano’s storied past. Once the seat of the powerful Sanada clan, these historic ruins feature a range of architectural elements, including stone walls, gates, and foundation stones. Visitors can explore the site under the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide, learning about the castle’s strategic importance and the intriguing history of the Sanada family.

Highlight	Duration
Photo Stop	10 mins
Castle Ruins Visit	30 mins
Guided Tour	20 mins
Sightseeing & Walking	20 mins

The Matsushiro Castle Ruins provide a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Nagano, complementing the other highlights of this comprehensive day tour.

Optional Activity: Shibu Onsen

One optional activity that can be included in the day tour is a visit to the historic Shibu Onsen, a centuries-old hot spring town nestled in the mountains of Nagano.

Shibu Onsen is renowned for its natural hot springs and traditional ryokans, where guests can relax and unwind. Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, explore the quaint shops, and indulge in the thermal waters that are believed to have healing properties.

The onsen experience is a quintessential part of Japanese culture, and a visit to Shibu Onsen allows travelers to enjoy this time-honored tradition.

With its stunning natural setting and rich cultural heritage, Shibu Onsen is the perfect addition to a day of exploring Nagano’s highlights.

Inclusions

The tour package includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide to accompany travelers throughout the day.

Plus, the admission fee for the Jigokudani Monkey Park is covered as part of the tour. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for guests, allowing them to focus on exploring the highlights without having to worry about logistics or additional costs.

The private nature of the tour also allows for a more personalized experience, as the guide can tailor the itinerary to the interests and preferences of the group.

With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the Nagano region during this comprehensive day tour.

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can book the Private Snow Monkey Zenkoji Temple Sightseeing Day Tour from ¥17,410 per group of up to 5 people, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

The full-day tour includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide. Admission to the Jigokudani Monkey Park is also covered.

Travelers have the flexibility to customize their itinerary and enjoy the highlights, including photo stops, visits, guided tours, and sightseeing at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple, and Matsushiro Castle Ruins.

For added convenience, the tour offers pickup and drop-off options in Tokyo and Yokohama. Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary Further?

Yes, the tour can be further customized. The full-day private Nagano tour is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences and interests within the provided highlights and duration.

Is There a Discount for Larger Groups?

Yes, there is a group discount for larger groups. The tour price is 17,410 JPY per group of up to 5 people, so larger groups would pay less per person.

Can I Request a Different Departure Time?

Yes, you can request a different departure time for the full-day private guided Nagano tour. The tour is fully customizable, allowing you to adjust the schedule to suit your preferences.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

For this tour, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing for the snow monkey park, camera, snacks, and any necessary medications. The guide can provide recommendations for what to bring based on the day’s weather and activities.

Is Photography Allowed at the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the tour sites. Visitors can take photos at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple, and Matsushiro Castle Ruins. However, there may be some restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide or local authorities.

Recap

This private tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in Nagano.

Guests can observe the famous snow monkeys, explore the historic Zenkoji Temple, and visit the Matsushiro Castle Ruins.

With a customizable itinerary, private transportation, and an English-speaking guide, the tour provides a personalized and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the beauty and traditions of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: