November 23: Ebisu-ko Fireworks & Snow Monkey Tour

This guided day trip from Nagano promises a blend of incredible natural encounters and festive celebrations. We’re sharing a detailed look at what makes this experience worth considering — or skipping — for your Japan itinerary.

Three things we love about this tour: the chance to see Nagano’s famous snow monkeys up close, the opportunity to enjoy a traditional meal in a historic setting, and the breathtaking spectacle of Japan’s largest autumn fireworks display. It’s a well-rounded day that offers authentic moments and spectacular sights.

A possible downside? The tour involves a good amount of walking on uneven, unsealed paths, making it less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or very young children. Still, if you’re reasonably active and eager for a full day of adventure, this tour hits many high points.

This experience appeals most to those looking for a mix of wildlife, cultural cuisine, and seasonal festivities — perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out from Nagano.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounter: Get close to Nagano’s famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park.
• Traditional Lunch: Savor a meal in a historic merchant house, experiencing regional cuisine.
• Spectacular Fireworks: Witness Japan’s largest autumn fireworks display with reserved seating.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transport, entrance fees, lunch, and a knowledgeable English guide.
• Time-Structured Day: Well-planned stops with ample time to enjoy each experience.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a full-day adventure with a clear itinerary designed to maximize your experience of Nagano’s natural beauty and cultural festivities. Starting at Nagano Station at 11:00, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will lead you through a carefully curated day.

Visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park

Your first stop is the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to Nagano’s iconic snow monkeys. The journey begins with a short bus ride of about 80 minutes, followed by a scenic walk along a forest trail. The walk itself covers about 1.6 km each way, taking roughly 30 minutes. The trail is unsealed and can be muddy, so sturdy shoes are a must.

Once inside the park, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the wild monkeys bathing in hot springs, playing, grooming each other, and simply relaxing in their natural environment. The fact that there are no barriers between visitors and monkeys makes for a genuinely intimate experience, but it also means you need to keep your camera ready as the monkeys can be unpredictable.

Reviewers have appreciated the naturalness of this encounter. One noted, “The visit to the park is a little quick,” but others loved how close and authentic the experience felt. Remember to bring your camera — you’ll want to capture these adorable, candid moments.

Enjoying a Traditional Lunch at Hotaru-tei

After the monkey adventure, your guide will lead you to Hotaru-tei, a restaurant housed in a 160-year-old merchant mansion. This setting provides a beautiful backdrop for a well-deserved late lunch. The restaurant is renowned locally for its food, offering classic regional dishes. Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary preferences.

Guests have described the meal as “very typical and delicate,” and the ambiance adds to the experience by placing you in a piece of local history. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and appreciate Nagano’s culinary traditions before heading back out for the evening festivities.

Witnessing Japan’s Largest Autumn Fireworks

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival, held along the Sai River. This event has a history dating back to 1899 and has grown into Japan’s biggest autumn fireworks display, attracting over 400,000 spectators annually.

Your tour includes reserved seating, ensuring you won’t get lost in the crowds or stand uncomfortably far from the action. As darkness falls around 18:00, the sky alights with more than 15,000 individual pyrotechnics, culminating in a dazzling finale that lasts until around 20:00.

Reviewers consistently praise the fireworks for their scale and beauty. One noted, “Probably one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Japan,” mentioning how guides Joyce and Orlando went above and beyond to help the group secure optimal viewing spots amid the large crowds. The fireworks’ quick, vibrant bursts make for memorable photos and videos.

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Wrapping Up

After the fireworks, your guide will assist you in navigating the throngs of festival-goers back to Nagano Station, arriving around 21:00-21:15. The short drive back caps off a day filled with natural beauty, culture, and festive excitement.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

• Start at Nagano Station: Your meeting point is conveniently located in front of the main Information Board near the Shinkansen gates, making it easy to find.
• Bus to Jigokudani: An 80-minute journey offers a comfortable start to the day.
• Monkey Park Visit: A guided walk along the trail leads you into the park, where you can observe the monkeys in their natural hot-spring environment. The 2.17-hour visit combines walking, wildlife watching, and photo opportunities.
• Lunch at Hotaru-tei: An hour long, giving you time to enjoy traditional dishes in a historic setting.
• Return to Nagano and sightseeing: The afternoon includes a guided tour around Nagano, giving context to the region’s culture and history.
• Fireworks viewing: Arranged with reserved seats, the show offers an uninterrupted view of the night sky lit up with fireworks.
• The Sum Up back at Nagano Station: The day ends with a short coach ride, which helps manage the flow of crowds and ensures you’re back on time.

The Practical Side: Value & Considerations

At $178 per person, this tour offers a lot packed into one day. It includes transportation, entry fees, lunch, and premium fireworks seating. The convenience of having a guide handle logistics and translation adds to the value, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

However, keep in mind the physical demands — significant walking on uneven paths and the cold night climate (around 0°C or lower) during fireworks. Dress warmly, with sturdy shoes, and prepare for potentially crowded scenes, particularly at the fireworks.

Reviews highlight that guides like Joyce and Orlando are helpful and attentive, which can make navigating large crowds much easier. Still, activities may not suit elderly or mobility-impaired travelers due to the walking involved.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience best suits travelers who want to see Nagano’s iconic wildlife, enjoy authentic regional cuisine, and experience Japan’s largest fireworks festival in one well-organized day. It appeals most to those comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions, and who enjoy cultural festivities.

It’s ideal for those looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and seasonal spectacle in a single trip. If you’re after a more relaxed or less physically demanding day, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transport from Nagano Station, between the stops, and back is included in the tour fee.

Can I join if I am not very mobile?
The tour involves a lot of walking on unsealed, possibly muddy paths; it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What is the best time to view the fireworks?
The fireworks start around 18:00 and last until approximately 20:00, with the best viewing from your reserved seats on the riverbank.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Sturdy shoes, warm clothes (especially at night), and your camera are highly recommended.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available at Hotaru-tei, the restaurant for lunch.

What should I expect at Jigokudani Monkey Park?
Close encounters with wild monkeys bathing in hot springs, playing, and grooming — no barriers between you and the wildlife.

How long is the entire day?
From 11:00 am to around 21:00, depending on how long the fireworks last and the group’s pace.

Will I have free time?
The schedule is quite full, with guided visits and a set lunch, so free time is limited but included during the lunch break and sightseeing around Nagano.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Be prepared with waterproof clothing, as the outdoor walking portions will still proceed.

Final Thoughts

The Ebisu-ko Fireworks & Snow Monkey Tour offers a rewarding glimpse into Nagano’s natural and cultural treasures. It’s a well-balanced day that combines wildlife sightings, culinary delights, and breathtaking fireworks, all with the support of a knowledgeable guide.

Perfect for travelers who want a full, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour delivers memorable moments and unique photo opportunities. While it demands some physical effort and warm clothing, the spectacular fireworks and adorable monkeys make it a worthwhile adventure.

If you’re after a lively, diverse day that captures the spirit of Nagano in autumn, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to experience local traditions, wildlife, and seasonal festivities in one go.

In summary, this tour is a compelling option for those who love wildlife encounters, cultural cuisine, and vibrant seasonal celebrations. Its value lies not only in the sights but in the ease of having logistics sorted for you, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment. Just remember to pack warm, sturdy shoes, and be ready for a full day of exploration and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: