2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
Situated between the popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, the mountainous region of Nagano is the literal heart of Japan and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This tour combines some of the region’s most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Narai-juku, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With an English-speaking guide on both days, and transport between locations included, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
Options
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
What's included in 2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Day 1 | Zenkoji Temple - Snow Monkey Park
Zenko-ji Temple
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Food and Drinks
Accommodation
Day 2 | Matsumoto Castle - Narai-juku - Takayama
Matsumoto Castle
Nawate Shopping District
Naraijuku
Food and Drinks
Inclusions
- Entry to Traditional House in Narai on Day 2
- Matsumoto Castle entrance fee on Day 2
- Accommodation at Hotel Kokusai 21 on Day 1 (inc. breakfast on Day 2)
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Snow Monkey Park entrance fee
- English-speaking guide & transport on Day 1 & 2
- Sake tasting
- Transportation from Nagano to all listed destinations, ending at Takayama
- Dinner on Day 1 & Day 2
- Accommodation in Takayama
- Shinkansen/bullet train tickets
- Lunch on Day 2
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please wear suitable shoes for the walking trail into the Snow Monkey Park.
- During the winter it is common to see the Snow Monkeys enjoying the hot spring bath, however from spring up to autumn there will be times where the monkeys play or eat in the water, however please note that the monkeys are wild animals and there is no guarantee that there will be monkeys in the bath.
- There are a few days in the year that the monkeys might not come down to the park. In such case we will provide an alternative activity.
- It is possible to extend your stay at Hotel Kokusai 21. Please send us your preferred length of stay if this is what you’re looking for.
- Guests are required to follow the Snow Monkey Park rules at all times. Guests are not permitted to touch, hold, feed or bathe with the monkeys at any time. There are no barriers separating the monkeys from visitors to the park. Please ensure you keep a minimum distance of 1 to 2 meters between yourself and the monkeys. Your guide will explain the rules prior to entering the park.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- The meeting point is across from the Shinkansen exit/entrance under the Information Board. Our guide will be there by 9:20.