Zenko-ji Temple & Jigokudani Monkey Park Day Tour with Shinshu Soba Lunch
- Meet the world-famous Snow Monkeys! Observe wild Japanese macaques at the Jigokudani Monkey Park
- See monkeys bathing in hot springs up close! A popular winter sightseeing spot in Nagano
- Visit Zenko-ji Temple! Enjoy free time at one of Nagano's most iconic temples with 1,400 years of history
- Indulge in authentic Shinshu soba! Enjoy Nagano's specialty soba for lunch
- Experience the best of winter in Nagano! A magical landscape created by snow and Japanese macaques
- Convenient departure and arrival at Nagano Station! Efficiently visit both Zenko-ji Temple and Jigokudani Monkey Park in one day
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
- Soba-dokoro Yamashiroya
Located right in front of the Zenko-ji Temple gate, Soba-dokoro Yamashiroya is a long-established restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Shinshu soba while sightseeing in Nagano. You can savor delicate soba noodles handmade with care by the proprietress, as well as dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. It is a convenient stop to enjoy Nagano's unique food culture before or after visiting Zenko-ji Temple.
- Shinshu Zenko-ji Temple
Boasting a history of approximately 1,400 years, Shinshu Zenko-ji Temple is one of Nagano's most iconic and historic temples. As a non-denominational temple, it has long gathered the faith of many people. It is often said that one should visit Zenko-ji at least once in their lifetime, and it continues to attract numerous visitors from all over the country. With its magnificent main hall and the charming historic temple town, it is a must-visit destination in Nagano.
- Jigokudani Monkey Park 'Snow and Monkeys'
Located in the mountains of northern Nagano Prefecture, the Jigokudani Monkey Park is a world-famous spot where you can observe wild Japanese macaques up close. In winter, you may be able to see the 'Snow Monkeys' bathing in hot springs amidst the snowy landscape. This magical and unique scenery created by the snow and monkeys is very popular among international tourists. It is a special experience unique to Nagano, where you can observe monkeys living in the harsh winter nature. Please note that as these are wild animals, there is no guarantee that you will see them bathing in the hot springs or see the monkeys at all.
Shinshu soba
Shinshu Zenkoji Temple
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Snow, hot springs, and monkeys
Purchase Notice
[Travel conditions]
Departure point/Destination: Nagano
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation used: Chartered bus
Bus company: Chikuma Bus Co., Ltd. or equivalent class bus
Meal plan: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation used: None
Minimum number of participants: 5 (may vary depending on the plan.)
Tour guides: 0
Guide: 1
[Travel planning/execution]
Company Name: WILLER ACROSS Co., Ltd.
Address: 1-13-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Registration Number: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Registered Travel Agency No. 2-8278
Affiliated travel industry association: Japan Fair Trade Council for the Travel Industry
[Consignment Sales]
KKDAY JAPAN Co., Ltd.
2nd Floor, WESTALL Yotsuya Building, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004, Japan
Registered Travel Agency No. 2045, Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency
Member organization: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 5 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Touching, feeding, staring at, or startling monkeys is dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Pets are not allowed in the park as they can disturb the wild monkeys.
Monkeys only bathe in hot springs on cold days. They don't always bathe in the hot springs; on warm days or on a whim, they may not bathe at all.
FAQ
1. What unique experiences can visitors expect at Jigokudani Monkey Park?
Visitors to Jigokudani Monkey Park can observe wild Japanese macaques up close in their natural environment. The park is most famous for the "snow monkeys" seen bathing in hot springs, creating a unique and picturesque scene, especially during winter. This rare opportunity allows for an intimate look at their behaviors and social interactions in a stunning natural setting.
2. How much time is typically spent exploring Jigokudani Monkey Park?
While the walk from the parking lot to Jigokudani Monkey Park takes approximately 50 minutes each way, visitors typically spend a good amount of time inside the park observing the macaques. The overall visit, including the walk and observation, can comfortably be done within a few hours, allowing ample time to enjoy the monkeys and the scenic surroundings.
3. Can Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Monkey Park be thoroughly explored in a single day?
Yes, this day trip is specifically designed to allow thorough exploration of both Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Monkey Park within a single day. The itinerary provides free time to appreciate Zenkoji Temple's 1,400-year history and offers a dedicated visit to observe the snow monkeys. It efficiently condenses Nagano's historical, cultural, and natural highlights for a fulfilling one-day experience.
4. What are the main highlights of visiting Zenkoji Temple during the day trip?
During the day trip, a visit to Zenkoji Temple highlights its impressive 1,400-year history and significant cultural importance as a representative temple of Nagano. Visitors have free time to explore its grounds, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and experience traditional Japanese temple architecture. It offers a profound insight into Japan's spiritual heritage.
5. What is the departure and return point for the day trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple?
The day trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple offers convenient departures and arrivals directly from Nagano Station. This centralized meeting point makes it easy for travelers to join and conclude the tour, ensuring a smooth and efficient way to explore these popular Nagano attractions without worrying about inter-site transportation.
6. Is it possible to see the snow monkeys bathing in hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park year-round?
While the monkeys are present year-round, the iconic sight of "snow monkeys" bathing in hot springs is predominantly observed during the winter months when the landscape is covered in snow. This creates the "fantastical scene" for which Jigokudani Monkey Park is world-famous. During warmer seasons, the monkeys can still be seen in the park but may not utilize the hot springs as frequently.
7. How challenging is the walk to reach Jigokudani Monkey Park?
Reaching Jigokudani Monkey Park involves a walk of approximately 50 minutes from the parking lot. The path can be unpaved, potentially snowy and icy in winter, requiring sturdy footwear. While not overly strenuous, it is a moderate walk through a natural setting, and visitors should be prepared for varying terrain and weather conditions.
8. What kind of lunch is provided during the day trip to Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Monkey Park?
During the day trip to Zenkoji Temple and Jigokudani Monkey Park, a delicious lunch of Shinshu soba is provided. This is a local specialty of Nagano, known for its unique flavor and quality. Enjoying authentic Shinshu soba is an integral part of experiencing Nagano's renowned local cuisine and culinary culture.
