[Travel conditions]
[Travel planning/execution]
Company Name: Orion Tour Co., Ltd.
Address: 3rd Floor, Daiwa Higashi-Nihonbashi Building, 3-10-6 Higashi-Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku
Registration Number: Tourism Commissioner Registered Travel Agency No. 692
Affiliated travel industry association: JATA
A minimum of 15 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 7 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 17:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Bus seats are assigned. Please note that we do not accept advance seat reservations.
On this tour, you may be seated with other passengers on the bus.
The estimated length of stay in each location is approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
Arrival and departure times may be delayed due to road conditions, weather, or other unavoidable circumstances. In the event that your arrival in Shinjuku is delayed and you need to use a taxi or stay overnight, we will not be able to reimburse you for these expenses.
Please be aware that delays may occur due to congestion at the meeting point, traffic congestion or accidents along the way, or other unavoidable circumstances. We cannot be held responsible for any reduction in your time at the destination as a result. (We will not provide any compensation.)
The ideal time to observe the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park is generally from December to March, during the winter months, when the monkeys are most likely to be seen soaking in the hot springs amidst snowy landscapes. However, visitors can enjoy seeing the monkeys year-round; in warmer seasons, they can be observed in a lush green environment, engaging in various natural behaviors.
Visitors can expect to observe the wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) soaking in the outdoor hot spring, especially when the weather is cold. You'll see their natural behaviors such as grooming, playing, and relaxing in the warm water. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness these nearly wild animals in their natural habitat, making it a distinctive experience.
To reach the main viewing area of Jigokudani Monkey Park, there is an approximate 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) walk one way from the trail entrance. This walk typically takes about 25 to 40 minutes, depending on your pace and the path conditions, which can be snowy or icy in winter. The path is unpaved and includes some uphill sections.
A comprehensive visit to Togakushi Shrine and its surrounding areas, including the various sub-shrines and natural paths, typically requires around 2.5 to 3 hours. This allows sufficient time to experience the main shrines like Chusha (Middle Shrine) and explore parts of the scenic cedar avenue leading to Okusha (Upper Shrine), soaking in the historical and natural beauty.
Exploring Togakushi Shrine involves a significant amount of walking, especially if you plan to visit multiple sub-shrines. The path to Okusha (Upper Shrine) is particularly notable, featuring a long, historic cedar avenue. Some sections are uphill and unpaved, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended for navigating the natural terrain.
For visitors arriving by bus, such as on a day tour, stops are usually conveniently located near key areas of Togakushi Shrine. Common drop-off points are often close to the Chusha (Middle Shrine) or at the entrance to the impressive cedar avenue that leads to the Okusha (Upper Shrine). From these points, you can easily begin your exploration of the specific shrines and surrounding nature.
No, direct interactive experiences such as feeding or touching the monkeys are not permitted at Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park's policy is to protect both the visitors and the wild monkeys, ensuring they maintain their natural behaviors and a safe environment for all. Visitors are encouraged to observe the monkeys from designated viewing areas without direct interference.
Jigokudani Monkey Park is situated in the mountainous Yamanouchi area of Nagano Prefecture, deep in the Japanese Alps. It is typically accessed via local transportation or specialized bus tours that often depart from major transport hubs such as Nagano Station, making it a convenient day trip for those starting their journey from the city.