【Private】[Snow Monkey + Togakushi Shrine] From Nagano/Myoko

Explore the natural wonders of Nagano with a private tour to the renowned Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine. This full-day adventure offers a chance to witness wild Japanese macaques soaking in steaming hot springs, followed by a serene hike to the historic Togakushi Shrine. Enjoy delectable local cuisine and gain insights from knowledgeable guides throughout the journey. With flexible pickup options, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of culture and nature, leaving you eager to uncover more.

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Key Points

This private tour offers a full-day experience exploring the Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine, catering to travelers departing from Nagano or Myoko.
The tour includes admission fees, a scenic hike to the snow monkey viewing area, and guided visits to the historic Togakushi Shrine and its culturally significant sites.
Guests can enjoy a set menu featuring regional Japanese cuisines, such as soba noodles and warming stews, as part of the tour’s dining experiences.
Flexible pickup and drop-off options are available, allowing for a convenient and personalized tour experience.
The tour is priced at $164.74 per person for an 8-hour duration, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day experience exploring the iconic Snow Monkey Park and the historic Togakushi Shrine. Priced from $164.74 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you to Nagano/Myoko to witness the famous wild Japanese macaques in their natural hot spring habitat.

The tour is likely to sell out, so customers are advised to check availability for start times. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence.

Convenient payment options let you reserve your spot without upfront costs, making this an accessible and hassle-free experience.

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Highlights of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is famous for its wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, that soak in the natural hot springs during the winter months.

To reach the viewing area, visitors must embark on a scenic 30-40 minute hike. The snow monkeys, known for their distinctive red faces, captivate onlookers as they unwind in the steaming pools, providing a unique and memorable wildlife experience.

Admission fees are 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for children, with free entry for children under 6. This popular attraction is likely to sell out, so advance reservations are recommended.

Exploring Togakushi Shrine

After exploring the captivating world of the snow monkeys, the tour continues to the historic Togakushi Shrine.

This sacred Shinto site is known for its serene cedar tree-lined paths and three main shrine areas. Visitors can take a 30-40 minute walk through the ancient cedar avenue to reach the Upper Shrine, which has a connection to ninja history and traditional soba noodles.

The shrine’s spiritual atmosphere and scenic beauty offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Knowledgeable guides provide insights that enhance the overall Togakushi Shrine experience.

Dining Experiences

Lunch is included in the tour, providing an opportunity to sample local cuisine and delicacies.

The tour operators coordinate a stop at a nearby restaurant, where guests can enjoy a set menu featuring regional specialties. This could include dishes like soba noodles, warming stews, or seasonal produce.

While a dinner reservation is also made, guests have the flexibility to make alternative arrangements if they prefer.

The dining experiences are designed to complement the cultural and natural highlights of the tour, allowing participants to fully enjoy the local flavors and traditions of the Nagano/Myoko region.

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Transportation and Logistics

The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off options, allowing participants to conveniently access the starting point of the excursion.

Travelers can choose from:

Private hotel/accommodation pickup
Meet at a designated central location in Nagano/Myoko
Arrange for drop-off at their preferred destination after the tour
Relax in the car with the availability of WiFi during the journey

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM, with the return time typically between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, depending on weather and road conditions.

This ensures an efficient and well-organized experience for all guests.

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Guide Expertise and Customer Feedback

The tour’s experienced and knowledgeable guides, such as Dai and Chris, have consistently received praise from travelers for their helpfulness and insightful local knowledge.

With their expertise, they enhance the overall experience, providing recommendations for authentic dining and sharing cultural insights that immerse guests in the rich heritage of the region.

Travelers consistently rate the tour 5/5, highlighting the unique wildlife encounter at the Snow Monkey Park and the serene, spiritual atmosphere at the Togakushi Shrine.

The guides’ exceptional service and attention to detail ensure a truly memorable and educational journey.

Booking and Availability

When is the best time to book this tour? Due to its popularity, booking early is recommended. This tour is likely to sell out, so checking availability for your preferred start time is advised.

Fortunately, the tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off options, and you can reserve your spot with no upfront cost.

Here are four reasons why this tour is worth booking:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Convenient payment option to reserve now and pay later.
Availability of various start times to fit your schedule.
Experienced guides praised for their expertise and local insights.

Cancellation Policy and Payment Options

Although the Snow Monkey + Togakushi Shrine tour is a popular choice, travelers can rest assured that it offers a flexible cancellation policy and convenient payment options.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can easily change your plans if needed. To book your spot, you can pay later and reserve your place at no upfront cost.

This allows you to secure your tour without any immediate financial commitment. Whether you need to adjust your schedule or simply prefer a more flexible booking process, this tour accommodates your needs for a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food to the Snow Monkey Park?

You can bring your own food to the Snow Monkey Park, but there aren’t many places to eat on-site. It’s best to check if the tour includes lunch or make other arrangements before your visit.

What Should I Wear to Stay Warm at the Snow Monkey Park?

To stay warm at the Snow Monkey Park, dress in warm, layered clothing. Wear insulated jackets, gloves, hats, and sturdy, waterproof boots. Bringing hand and toe warmers can also help keep you comfortable during the chilly outdoor experience.

Is the Hike to the Upper Shrine at Togakushi Difficult?

The hike to the Upper Shrine at Togakushi isn’t too difficult, but it does take around 30-40 minutes and involves walking through an ancient cedar avenue. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some incline, but the scenic beauty makes it worthwhile.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities at the Tour Locations?

There are restroom facilities available at both the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and Togakushi Shrine. Visitors can use the restrooms located near the entrance areas of these attractions during the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Tour Sites After the Tour Ends?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay at the tour sites after the tour ends. The tour allows flexible timing, and guests are free to explore the attractions further on their own schedule.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Nagano. Visitors can observe the captivating snow monkeys, explore the serene Togakushi Shrine, and savor delicious local cuisine – all with the convenience of flexible pickup options and knowledgeable guides. It’s a seamless blend of nature, culture, and culinary delight, making for an unforgettable day in this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here: