Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen Maruike Park Day Tour
Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen Maruike Park Day Tour
Odaberite svoje iskustvo
Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen Maruike Park Day Tour
This day trip from Nagano combines two of Japan's most distinctive winter experiences. You'll start at Shiga Kogen Maruike Park, one of Japan's highest-altitude ski resorts, where gentle snow activities like snowscooting, tubing and sledding await visitors of all ages. The highlight comes in the afternoon at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where you'll observe wild Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs against a snowy mountain backdrop.
Your English-speaking guide handles all logistics, from pickup at Nagano Station to the 1.6-kilometre forest walk through beech and cedar trees to reach the snow monkeys. Between activities, you'll enjoy lunch at a mountain-view restaurant serving local favourites like katsu curry and sansai soba. This tour accommodates families and provides a rare chance to see behaviour found nowhere else on Earth.
What's Included
- All entry and activity fees at Shiga Kogen Maruike Park
- Entry tickets to Snow Monkey Park
- Guided services by an English-speaking expert
- Round-trip transport from Nagano Station and attractions
- Lunch at a mountain-view restaurant
Good to Know
The tour runs from approximately 8:45am to 6:00pm, starting with pickup from Nagano Station or select hotels including Hotel Kokusai 21. You'll need moderate fitness for the 30-40 minute forest walk to Snow Monkey Park, covering 1.6 kilometres each way on potentially snowy paths. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking boots.
Snow activities at Shiga Kogen are designed for all ages and skill levels. While monkey sightings are highly likely, they're not guaranteed as these are wild animals. Return times may vary due to winter road conditions. The tour operates year-round but is particularly spectacular during snow season from December through March.
If you're exploring more of Japan's natural wonders, consider pairing this with other regional experiences. For those staying longer in the area, you'll find plenty of day trips from Tokyo that showcase Japan's diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters beyond the capital.
Good to know
- Prikladnost dobi
- Suitable for all ages
- Što znati prije polaska
Highlights
Visit Shiga Kogen Maruike Park for fun snow activities
Experience the famous Snow Monkey Park and observe Japanese macaques in hot springs
Guided forest walk with mountain and winter scenery
Enjoy lunch with local flavors and great views
Perfect for families and all age groups
What’s Included
All entry and activity fees at Shiga Kogen Maruike Park
Entry tickets to Snow Monkey Park
Guided services by an English-speaking expert
Round-trip transport to and from Nagano Station and attractions
Lunch at a mountain-view restaurant
- Upute za posjetitelje
Your Experience
Start Your Day of Adventure
Your journey starts with a convenient pick-up from several locations in Nagano, including Hotel Kokusai 21, Nagano Station and nearby onsens. Your knowledgeable guide ensures that every step of your day is comfortable and engaging.
Winter Fun at Shiga Kogen Maruike Park
The tour’s first highlight is Shiga Kogen Maruike Park, home to one of the largest and highest-altitude ski resorts in Japan. Here, families and travelers can immerse themselves in a variety of gentle snow activities. Enjoy snowscoots, snowdrives and sleds, perfect for guests both young and old. Feel free to glide over powdery slopes, try tubing for a thrilling ride or simply appreciate the mountain scenery from the comfort of the ski lift. The park’s welcoming atmosphere accommodates both energetic kids and adults seeking to relax in a winter wonderland.
When it’s time for lunch, gather at a restaurant offering generous portions of katsu curry, hamburger steak or a warming bowl of noodles such as sansai soba or udon. The vast windows offer impressive views of the snow-draped terrain while you dine and recharge for the afternoon.
Guided Forest Hike to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Afterwards, journey onward toward the world-famous Snow Monkey Park, or Jigokudani. Disembark at Kanbayashi Onsen and follow your guide along a peaceful 1.6 km (1 mile) forest trail lined by beech and cedar trees. The snowy landscape transforms this hike into a scenic treat, with the anticipation building as you approach your unique destination.
Upon reaching the park, a rare spectacle awaits: Japanese macaques living in their natural environment, soaking comfortably in the park’s hot spring pools. These snow monkeys are famous for their playful behavior and tranquil soak sessions, creating outstanding photo opportunities and lasting memories. Watch them groom one another, play in the snow and lounge in the steaming waters—an encounter possible nowhere else in the world.
Return to Nagano
Your memorable outing concludes as you follow your guide back along the forest trail. Reflect on your day as you travel by bus or private vehicle back to Nagano Station. Depending on your accommodation, you can be dropped off at the station or other selected stops. Due to winter road conditions, arrival times can vary but are generally before 6pm.
Sample Itinerary
8:45 am: Meet your guide at Nagano Station or enjoy pickup at your designated hotel
10:30 am: Arrive and enjoy snow activities at Shiga Kogen Maruike Park; scenic lunch included
12:45 pm: Depart for Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
1:20 pm: Trek the forest trail to the park entrance
2:10 pm: Watch the snow monkeys in their natural onsen habitat
3:10 pm: Return walk along the scenic trail
4:00 pm: Head back to Nagano Station
5:30–6:00 pm: Tour ends at Nagano Station, with drop-offs as requested
*Times subject to change due to weather and road conditions
With expert guidance, curated activities and local insights, this day tour offers both action and relaxation in Nagano’s winter beauty.
Book your Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen Maruike Park Day Tour tickets now!
Često postavljana
Where does the tour begin?
The tour starts at Nagano Station, with additional pick-ups at select hotels and onsens.
Are the snow activities suitable for children?
Yes, snowscoots, tubing and sled activities are designed for families and all ages.
Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, lunch at a restaurant with several options is included in your ticket.
How long is the walk to the Snow Monkey Park?
The forest hike to the park is about 1.6 km each way, taking around 30–40 minutes.
What if the monkeys aren’t present at the park?
While rare, monkeys may leave the park early; sightings are not guaranteed.
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