Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Afternoon Group Tour From Myoko Kogen

The Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Afternoon Group Tour from Myoko Kogen offers a unique opportunity to witness Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs. This 4 to 5-hour tour includes guided walks through the historic Shibu Onsen and entry to the Monkey Park. Travelers can enjoy a scenic journey in an air-conditioned vehicle, savor a delicious lunch, and capture unforgettable memories in Japan’s beautiful Niigata region. But what makes this tour truly special? Delve deeper to find out.

This experience made our article of 20 of Our Favorite Tours in Niigata Prefecture.

Key Points

• This guided group tour explores the Snow Monkey Park and historic Shibu Onsen in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, lasting 4-5 hours.
• Participants can witness Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs, with the tour including entry tickets, a spring water stop, and lunch.
• The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, but luggage is not allowed, and travelers must arrange their own umbrellas or rainwear.
• The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or difficulty walking, and is not suitable for pregnant travelers or families with infants/small children during winter.
• The tour has an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on positive reviews highlighting the excellent guide, captivating snow monkey viewing, and memorable experience at Shibu Onsen.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a chance to explore the enchanting Snow Monkey Park and the historic Shibu Onsen in Niigata Prefecture, Japan.

Departing from Myoko Kogen, the 4 to 5-hour group tour takes visitors to see the famous Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs.

After the Monkey Park, the tour includes a guided walk through the charming Shibu Onsen.

The air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi accommodates up to 60 travelers.

Priced from $73.23 per person, the tour includes entry tickets, a stop at a spring water spot, and lunch, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions

The tour includes guided walks through the charming Shibu Onsen as well as entry tickets to the Monkey Park.

Participants will also get to stop at a spring water spot during the green season.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi.

However, luggage space isn’t available, and no luggage is allowed on the bus.

Travelers must arrange their own umbrella or rainwear.

Lunch is provided.

Certain health and safety guidelines apply, including a potential fee for damages requiring the vehicle to be taken out of service.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Although confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or difficulty walking the 2 km (30 mins) to/from the Monkey Park.

The tour is also not suitable for pregnant travelers or families with infants/small children during winter. Infants must sit on laps, and strollers aren’t allowed on the bus. A moderate physical fitness level is required.

Potential fees up to ¥30,000 may apply for damages requiring the vehicle to be taken out of service.

The tour meeting and pickup information notes:

1. Participants can select a meeting point, and the tour ends at the same location.
2. Pickup delays may occur if participants are late at Nozawa Onsen.
3. The tour is located near public transportation but isn’t wheelchair accessible.
4. Umbrella/rainwear must be arranged by participants.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Participants can select a meeting point for the Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Tour, with the tour ending at the same location.

Pickup may be delayed if travelers are late at Nozawa Onsen. The tour is located near public transportation but isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Travelers must arrange their own umbrellas or rainwear, as the tour company doesn’t provide these items. Luggage space is unavailable, and no luggage is allowed on the bus.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as there’s a 30-minute walk to and from the Monkey Park.

Reviews and Feedback

How does the Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Tour fare in terms of reviews and feedback?

According to the information provided, the tour has an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. The sole review highlights the excellent guide, Tommy, and the amazing experience of witnessing the snow monkeys playing.

The reviewer, Amanda_B, thoroughly enjoyed the tour, particularly the visit to Shibu Onsen.

Some key aspects that contribute to the positive feedback include:

1. Knowledgeable and friendly guide
2. Captivating snow monkey viewing
3. Memorable experience at Shibu Onsen
4. Overall satisfaction with the tour

Highlights of the Tour

The Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Tour offers visitors a chance to witness the captivating sight of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, bathing in natural hot springs.

The tour includes guided walks through the charming Shibu Onsen, where you’ll explore the quaint streets and traditional ryokans. Visitors also receive entry tickets to the Monkey Park, allowing them to observe the monkeys in their natural habitat.

The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and stops at a spring water spot during the green season, making it a well-rounded and immersive experience.

This tour showcases the beauty and unique cultural aspects of Japan’s central Niigata region.

Getting There and Getting Around

Travelers have two convenient meeting points to choose from for the Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Tour – the Visitor Center or the Akakura Bus Ginza.

The tour departs and returns to the same location, allowing for a seamless experience. Although luggage space isn’t available, participants can comfortably explore the tour’s highlights without the hassle of carrying extra belongings.

The air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi ensures a comfortable ride, while the inability to accommodate strollers and the potential for pickup delays at Nozawa Onsen are important considerations.

The tour includes the following:

1. Guided walks in Shibu Onsen
2. Monkey Park entry tickets
3. Stop at a spring water spot (during the green season)
4. An air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography Tripods Allowed on the Tour?

Photography tripods are not allowed on the tour. The tour overview indicates luggage space is limited, and participants must not bring any luggage. Visitors should plan to bring cameras and take photos without the use of a tripod.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The tour provides a lunch, and outside food and drinks are not allowed on the air-conditioned vehicle. Bringing your own sustenance is not permitted.

Do I Need to Book Tickets for the Monkey Park in Advance?

Tickets for the Monkey Park are included in the tour package, so there’s no need to book them separately. The tour guides will handle all the entrance arrangements, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Is There an Option to Visit the Onsen Baths?

The tour does not include visiting the onsen baths. However, participants can explore the Shibu Onsen town and its historic hot spring bathhouses during the guided walks. Visitors can choose to use the baths independently if they wish.

Can I Extend My Stay in Shibu Onsen After the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour does not allow participants to extend their stay in Shibu Onsen after the guided portion. The tour’s itinerary is fixed, and there’s no option to linger in the town beyond the scheduled activities.

The Sum Up

This enchanting Snow Monkey and Shibu Onsen Afternoon Group Tour from Myoko Kogen offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers can witness Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs, explore the historic Shibu Onsen, and enjoy a scenic journey with delicious lunch. The tour is perfect for those seeking a unique cultural adventure in Japan’s stunning Niigata region. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture memories of this incredible tour.