1-Day Winter Tour From Nozawa Onsen: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake

Discover the enchantment of Nozawa Onsen’s winter wonderland on this captivating 1-day tour. Marvel at the playful snow monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park, explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and savor a delightful sake tasting experience. With transport and entry fees covered, this adventure promises unforgettable memories amidst stunning landscapes and cultural richness. But what secrets does this tour hold? Let’s uncover them together.

This experience made our article of Best Tours in Nagano: Our 20 Top Picks.

Key Points

• This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen includes visits to the Jigokudani Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple, as well as a sake tasting experience.
• Lunch at a local Japanese restaurant and round-trip transportation from Nozawa Onsen are included in the tour price of $154.67 per person.
• The tour requires moderate physical fitness, with a 1-mile walk on an unsealed forest trail, and is not wheelchair accessible.
• Strict regulations are in place at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors must maintain a distance of 1-2 meters from the monkeys.
• The tour concludes at Nozawa Onsen by 6:00 PM, with the exact end time subject to weather and road conditions.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen takes visitors to some of the top attractions in the region.

It includes stops at the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where guests can observe the snow monkeys bathing in the natural hot springs.

The tour also features a guided visit to the historic Zenko-ji Temple and a sake tasting.

Lunch at a local Japanese restaurant is provided.

With a maximum of 44 travelers, the tour has received 100% positive reviews from past participants.

The tour price starts at $154.67 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions and Costs

This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen includes transport from and to the town, along with entry to the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

The tour also provides a guided tour at Zenko-ji Temple and a guided sake tasting. Additional food, snacks, and drinks are included.

The optional entrance fee to the inner sanctuary of Zenko-ji Temple is also covered.

The tour price starts at $154.67 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

• Transport from/to Nozawa Onsen
• Jigokudani Monkey Park entry ticket
• Guided tour at Zenko-ji Temple and sake tasting
• Additional food, snacks, and drinks

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Moderate physical fitness is required for this tour, as it includes walking approximately 1.6km (1 mile) on an unsealed forest trail.

The tour may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. Guests should wear appropriate footwear and clothing for winter conditions, as temperatures can drop below 0°C.

While the tour doesn’t require intense physical exertion, participants should be prepared for the outdoor walking component.

It’s important to consider one’s fitness level and any accessibility needs before booking this 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen.

Monkey Park Regulations and Wildlife Observation

Guests must follow strict regulations when visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park. They can’t touch, hold, feed, or bathe with the monkeys.

Visitors must maintain a distance of 1 to 2 meters from the monkeys, as there are no barriers separating them from the wildlife.

• Observe the monkeys from a distance, avoiding any direct interaction.
• Be mindful of the monkeys’ natural behavior and habitat.
• Respect the park’s rules to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and the monkeys.

Sightings of the monkeys in the hot springs aren’t guaranteed, as they’re wild animals.

Tour Logistics and Timing

Once a booking is confirmed, typically within 48 hours depending on availability, the tour is scheduled to conclude at Nozawa Onsen by 6:00 PM.

However, the exact end time may vary due to weather and road conditions. Meeting points and end points are provided upon booking, and infant seats are available.

Guests can expect a full day of exploration, starting from the morning and returning in the early evening.

The tour’s timing allows for ample time to visit the key highlights, including the Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenko-ji Temple, and a guided sake tasting.

Exploring Jigokudani Monkey Park

One of the highlight attractions of the 1-Day Winter Tour from Nozawa Onsen is the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

This unique park is home to a population of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, who’ve adapted to the frigid winters by soaking in the park’s natural hot springs.

Visitors can observe the monkeys’ natural behaviors, such as:

• Bathing in the steaming hot springs to keep warm
• Grooming one another
• Huddling together for added body heat
• Playing and interacting with the other monkeys in the park

The tour includes the Jigokudani Monkey Park entry ticket, allowing guests to witness this fascinating wildlife spectacle firsthand.

Discovering Zenko-ji Temple

After exploring the unique winter wonderland of the Jigokudani Monkey Park, the 1-Day Winter Tour from Nozawa Onsen takes visitors to the historic Zenko-ji Temple. This centuries-old Buddhist temple is known for its grand architecture and rich cultural significance. Guests will enjoy a guided tour, learning about the temple’s history and traditions. The tour also includes a guided sake tasting, allowing visitors to sample local Japanese rice wine.

Zenko-ji Temple Highlights
Grand Architecture	✓
Cultural Significance	✓
Guided Tour	✓
Sake Tasting	✓

Indulging in Sake Tasting

The guided sake tasting offers visitors a chance to sample a variety of local Japanese rice wines.

Guests can expect to taste:

• Fragrant, junmai-style sakes with a rich, velvety texture
• Crisp, dry junmai-ginjo sakes with delicate floral aromas
• Bold, full-bodied honjozo sakes with notes of umami
• Smooth, premium daiginjo sakes that showcase the distiller’s craft

The tasting is led by a knowledgeable guide, who provides insights into the history, production, and flavor profiles of the featured sakes.

It’s an opportunity to expand one’s appreciation for this time-honored Japanese beverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Visit the Park Independently?

No, there doesn’t appear to be an option to visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park independently. The tour package seems to be the only way to access the park, which includes transport, entry tickets, and a guided experience.

What Language(S) Is the Tour Provided In?

The tour is provided in English. The tour description does not specify if other languages are available, but indicates it is suitable for English-speaking travelers.

Does the Tour Include Any Souvenir Shopping Opportunities?

The tour does not explicitly mention any scheduled souvenir shopping opportunities. However, visitors may have free time at the destinations where they can explore local shops and markets to purchase souvenirs at their own discretion.

Can Special Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated?

The tour operator can accommodate special dietary requirements with advance notice. Guests should contact the company to discuss any dietary needs, and the tour staff will work to provide appropriate meals or alternatives.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum participant requirement. The tour can accommodate a maximum of 44 travelers, so it runs even with a small group size. Specific dietary needs can likely be accommodated if requested in advance.

The Sum Up

This winter tour from Nozawa Onsen offers a captivating blend of natural wonder, culture, and local indulgence. Witness the enchanting snow monkeys, explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and savor the nuances of Japanese sake. With transport and entry fees included, this adventure promises an unforgettable day amidst stunning landscapes and rich traditions, making it a must-do for those seeking a truly authentic winter experience.