2-Day Japan Snow Fun Tour | Karuizawa Snow Fun, Iiyama Snow House Village, Snow Monkey Hot Springs, Karuzukyo Tunnel, All-You-Can-Eat Strawberry Picking, and Shiga Kogen Hot Spring Hotel Accommodation | Depart from Shinjuku

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- Itinerary Introduction -

・Iiyama "Snow House Village"

Iiyama City in Nagano Prefecture, located on the border of Nagano and Niigata Prefectures, is renowned for its heavy snowfall in Japan, with annual snowfall reaching as high as two meters. Iiyama's "Kidama no Sato" is open only from late January to late February. This village, nestled in a snowy region where snowfall can reach approximately two meters annually, has inspired locals to take advantage of the winter farming season to meticulously construct a spectacular cluster of igloos. The 15 to 20 towering igloos neatly arranged within the village create a fairytale-like experience.

Visitors to Yukino-sato will not only enjoy the beautiful scenery of the igloos, but also enjoy special Japanese snacks inside the igloos and experience a special tour of the igloos, a must-see. During the day, the igloos are enveloped in a silvery white landscape, with the distant mountains and snowy fields blending beautifully, creating a pristine beauty. Yukino-sato also offers many other activities, such as visiting miniature igloos, visiting the Yukino Shrine, and participating in the Yukino Festival held every February. The festival also features fireworks displays and snow sculptures, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the charm of the snowy land in this winter wonderland.

・Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park, also known as the "Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park," located in Nagano Prefecture, is a world-renowned attraction, attracting countless visitors to witness the extraordinary spectacle of wild Japanese macaques enjoying hot springs. These macaques, commonly known as snow monkeys, are renowned for their ability to relax in steaming hot springs during the harsh winter months. This behavior, a unique phenomenon seen worldwide, has attracted visitors from around the world since the park opened in 1964. The name Jigokudani comes from its unique geographical location: the area is dotted with natural hot springs and surrounded by steep mountains and towering cliffs. In winter, blanketed in snow, the area appears to be a truly infernal spectacle.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to approximately 150 monkeys, who often gather in large groups around the hot springs to play, swim, or simply enjoy the warmth. Visitors to the Jigokudani Monkey Park must hike along a mountain path for approximately 25 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the local natural scenery. As the path can be icy and slippery in winter, it is recommended to wear non-slip hiking shoes and exercise caution. The snow monkeys within the park are wild animals, so please be sure to follow the rules and refrain from feeding or touching them for your own safety and the monkeys'. Whether blanketed in snow in winter or filled with newborns in spring and summer, the scenery and behavior of the monkeys will captivate you with the wonder and charm of nature. This unique attraction is not only a symbol of Nagano but also a must-see destination in Japan.

・Togakushi Shrine

Deep in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture lies a mysterious, seemingly secluded sanctuary: Togakushi Shrine, boasting over 2,000 years of history. Surrounded by towering cedar trees, the air is refreshingly tranquil, and stepping into a place filled with spiritual energy feels like stepping back in time into a divine realm.

Nakasha Shrine is the heart of Togakushi Shrine. The approach is framed by magnificent cedar trees, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere upon entering. Three "Sanbonsugi" trees stand side by side in front of the shrine's main hall. These are said to be sacred trees with special auras, and many come to pray for inspiration and wisdom. The distance from the entrance to Okusha Shrine is approximately 2 kilometers, offering breathtaking scenery. The first half of the route to Zuishinmon Gate is a gentle slope, taking approximately 15 minutes to reach. Once inside the cedar forest, the slope becomes steeper, and the final section is an uphill climb made of natural stones and stone steps, taking another 20 to 25 minutes. While the route is long, the scenery along the way is truly spectacular, making it a favorite for photographers and those seeking to meditate.

※Please note that some roads in Ohno are closed due to snowfall in winter. Please be advised.

・Zenkoji Temple

Zenko-ji Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, boasts a history of over 1,400 years. Its main statue, the "Ichiko Sanson Amida Nyorai," is considered one of the oldest Buddhist statues in Japan. The most striking feature is the main hall, a national treasure. This wooden structure not only embodies the grandeur of traditional Japanese architecture but also serves as a center of religious faith. The temple's "Keidan Pilgrimage" is a must-see experience. Through a darkened passage beneath the main hall, worshippers, in complete darkness, grope for the "Key to Paradise" connected to the Gohonzon. It is said that those who find the key will establish a connection with the Gohonzon, making the Kaidan Pilgrimage a unique spiritual and mental journey.

Zenko-ji Temple is surrounded by numerous shops and restaurants offering a variety of Nagano specialties, such as soba and oyaki (grilled flatbreads), perfect for enjoying local delicacies after visiting the temple. Whether you're looking for history, religion, or culture, Zenko-ji Temple is a must-see destination.

Hotel Introduction

・Kidoike Hot Spring Hotel

The history of the Kidoike Onsen Hotel dates back to the early Showa era, when it was founded by the hotel's first owner as "Shiga Cottage," originally intended to provide a resting place for travelers passing through Kusatsu. Kidoike Onsen is renowned for its pure, natural hot spring water, supplied directly from two sources—a high-pressure spring and a low-pressure spring—without any heating or water additions. The water is mixed to create a comfortable temperature. The spring water is pure, smooth, and generous, with a slightly elevated temperature for a comfortable experience. All rooms at the Kidoike Onsen Hotel offer Wi-Fi, and some rooms offer stunning views of Kidoike Pond. From your window, you can enjoy the magnificent four-season views of Shiga Kogen, allowing you to relax in the embrace of nature. All rooms are equipped with a bathroom, toilet, television, telephone, and tea set for your convenience.

※Room: Japanese-style room (tatami), with bathroom facilities

※Hot spring bath: Yes

※Dinner: Japanese-style kaiseki cuisine

※Breakfast: Japanese-style kaiseki cuisine

※Wi-Fi: Yes