Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 50 travelers
Overview
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.
What's included
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
What to expect
Day 1: Zenkoji Temple - Snow Monkey Park
Zenko-ji Temple
2h · Admission ticket included
Explore Zenko-ji - a National Treasure and one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
2h · Admission ticket included
Visit the world-famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani and learn all about what makes them so unique
Day 2: Matsumoto Castle - Narai-juku - Takayama
Matsumoto Castle
2h · Admission ticket included
Visit iconic Matsumoto Castle – a National Treasure and one the last remaining original castles in Japan
Nawate Shopping District
1h
One of Matsumoto's most charming streets, Nawate Street (also known as Frog Street) is home to numerous shops selling handmade crafts, delicious food, ice cream, and more! Your guide will allow some time here to enjoy the options for yourself, as well as check out Yohashira Shrine which borders the street.
Naraijuku
2h
Japan's longest post town, and one of its best preserved, Narai-juku is a step into the past, when samurai and merchants walked the Nakasendo Trail.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
The meeting point is across from the Shinkansen exit/entrance under the Information Board. Our guide will be there by 9:20.
End point
Additional information
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.
Please note, there may be possible changes in the itinerary/included experiences due to local events, weather, restaurant availability, or other unforeseeable factors.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
