Jigokudani Snow Monkey and Togakushi Shrine Private Tour

4.6 (16 reviews) Nagano, Japan
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Duration8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

A full-day trip to Nagano’s snow monkeys and Togakushi Shrine. With a private car and guide, avoid crowds and enjoy local insights. Photos are captured and delivered after the tour.

❑ A Special Experience
Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where in winter monkeys soak in hot springs and in summer play in forests and rivers. Then continue to Togakushi, a spiritual retreat with cedar-lined paths and centuries-old shrines. You’ll avoid crowds, discover local spots, and have moments photographed as lasting gifts.

❑ Why Private?
Public transport requires hours and many transfers, while dining options are limited. With a private car and guide, travel is smooth and flexible. The day adapts to your pace, from exploring shrine trails to enjoying a relaxed lunch.

❑ A Personalized Journey
Explore with an English-speaking guide, free from crowds or fixed schedules. Local insights enrich the journey, and each special moment is captured for you to keep.

What's included

  • Private transportation
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Fuel surcharge
  • Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
  • Parking Fees
  • Admission is paid on-site, so you get the best price without extra online fees.

What to expect

  1. Snow Monkey Park (jigokudani Yaen Koen)
    2h · Admission ticket not included
    Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park offers a rare opportunity to observe wild Japanese macaques up close in their natural habitat. To reach the viewing area, visitors enjoy a scenic 30–40-minute walk through the peaceful forest.

    As the monkeys are wild, their behavior changes naturally with the seasons:

    Winter (Dec–Mar): The Iconic Snowy Baths
    During freezing temperatures, the troop gathers around steaming hot springs to stay warm, creating the world-famous "snow monkey" scene.

    Spring (Apr–May): Fresh Greenery & Newborns
    Bathing becomes less frequent as weather warms, but adorable newborn babies appear from late April through May.

    Summer (Jun–Aug): Active Troop Life
    Young monkeys splash into the water to play and hunt for treats, while adults groom in the lush shade.

    Autumn (Sep–Nov): Harvest & Mating Season
    Monkeys forage deep in the mountains, so park appearances can be unpredictable and bathing is rare.
    *Admission fee required: Adults: 800 yen, Children (6–17): 400 yen. (Under 6: free)
  2. Togakushi Shrine
    2h
    Togakushi Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in the mountains northwest of Nagano City. It is famous for its sacred cedar tree-lined path and consists of three main shrine areas: the Lower Shrine (Hokosha), the Middle Shrine (Chusha), and the Upper Shrine (Okusha), each offering different experiences. The area is also known for its connection to ninja history and traditional soba noodles.
    Experience: Visitors can walk through the ancient cedar avenue leading to the Upper Shrine, offering a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. The shrine is also a great place to learn about Japanese mythology and Shinto practices, and the surrounding area is perfect for hiking.
    *At Togakushi Shrine, visitors can enjoy a 30-40 minute walk through a beautiful cedar-lined path to reach the Upper Shrine.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Hotel / Station pick-up is available in the following areas:

- Nagano City
- Yamanouchi (Snow Monkey area)
- Myoko
- Iiyama

*Please provide your exact hotel name or preferred pick-up location at the time of booking or no later than the day before the tour.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.6 (16)
From
30,100.00 JPY per person
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Operated by Omotenashi Travel Nagano · Booked through Viator
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