The world famous Jigokudani wild monkey park is home to about 200 wild monkeys who spend their days soaking in the natural hot springs, keeping warm from the harsh winter. The park was opened in 1964 and is considered to be the only place in the world to see snow monkeys bathing in the wild. The hike to the hot-springs takes approx. 30 minutes each way. Departing from the monkey park we then make our way to the historic town of Obuse, home to the famous Japanese artist Hokusai and Masuichi Sake Brewery. Lunch is a delicious set course traditional Japanese meal with a choice of main courses including dessert and glass of Sake. The next stop is Nagano City home to Zenkoji Temple, designated a national treasure and has a history of over 1400 years. It is one of Japan's most revered temples and houses the first image of Buddha brought to Japan in the 7th century. The streets surrounding the temple are lined with lantern lit shops and tiered roofed stalls, souvenir shops and galleries.
The world famous Jigokudani wild monkey park is home to about 200 wild monkeys who spend their days soaking in the natural hot springs, keeping warm from the harsh winter. The park was opened in 1964 and is considered to be the only place in the world to see snow monkeys bathing in the wild. The hike to the hot-springs takes approx. 30 minutes each way. Departing from the monkey park we then make our way to the historic town of Obuse, home to the famous Japanese artist Hokusai and Masuichi Sake Brewery. Lunch is a delicious set course traditional Japanese meal with a choice of main courses including dessert and glass of Sake. The next stop is Nagano City home to Zenkoji Temple, designated a national treasure and has a history of over 1400 years. It is one of Japan's most revered temples and houses the first image of Buddha brought to Japan in the 7th century. The streets surrounding the temple are lined with lantern lit shops and tiered roofed stalls, souvenir shops and galleries.
The tour begins with check-in at Nozawaonsen Kotsu's office between 12:30 and 13:00. At 13:10, the bus departs from Nozawa Onsen, heading toward the Monkey Park. By 14:00, you will arrive at the Monkey Park’s parking lot, followed by a 30-minute walk to the park itself. From 14:30 to 15:30, you'll have an hour to enjoy observing the monkeys in their natural habitat. Afterward, there will be a 30-minute walk back to the parking lot, with the bus departing at 16:00. The tour concludes with the bus returning to Nozawa Onsen by 17:00.
The tour begins with check-in at Nozawaonsen Kotsu's office between 12:30 and 13:00. At 13:10, the bus departs from Nozawa Onsen, heading toward the Monkey Park. By 14:00, you will arrive at the Monkey Park’s parking lot, followed by a 30-minute walk to the park itself. From 14:30 to 15:30, you'll have an hour to enjoy observing the monkeys in their natural habitat. Afterward, there will be a 30-minute walk back to the parking lot, with the bus departing at 16:00. The tour concludes with the bus returning to Nozawa Onsen by 17:00.