1-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen Tour

Set out on a thrilling winter adventure in Japan’s Shiga Kogen region. This one-day tour offers a chance to explore a snowy wonderland, enjoying a range of snow-based activities. Witness the captivating sight of ‘snow monkeys‘ as they bask in the natural hot springs of Jigokudani Park. With transportation, activity fees, and an English-speaking guide included, the tour provides a seamless and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snow enthusiast or seeking a unique cultural encounter, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with both fun and fascination.

Key Points

• Explore Japan’s largest and highest ski resort, Shiga Kogen, and enjoy winter activities like sledding, snow biking, and snow scootering.
• Witness the iconic Japanese macaques, or ‘snow monkeys,’ bathing in the natural hot springs of Jigokudani Monkey Park.
• Enjoy a hearty local lunch and warm up between snow activities.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off locations, and rental gear available to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
• Small group size of up to 18 travelers for a more personalized and enjoyable tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Shiga Kogen Tour provides a winter wonderland experience, allowing visitors to explore Japan’s largest and highest ski resort and witness the iconic snow monkeys of Jigokudani Park.

The tour includes a range of snow activities such as sledding, snow biking, and snow scooters at the ski resort. Visitors will also have the chance to observe the Japanese macaques as they bathe in the hot springs at Jigokudani Park.

The tour package covers transportation, activity fees, entry fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the best of Shiga Kogen’s winter attractions.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Winter Activities at Shiga Kogen

Visitors to Shiga Kogen can enjoy a range of exhilarating snow activities, including sledding, snow biking, and snow scootering, all within the largest and highest ski resort in Japan. The resort offers thrilling opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the snow-covered landscapes.

Guests can:

• Zip down the slopes on a sled, experiencing the rush of speed and the crisp mountain air
• Maneuver through the powder on a snow bike, adding an extra challenge to their winter adventure
• Glide effortlessly on a snow scooter, taking in the stunning vistas of the Shiga Kogen highlands

Guests can warm up between activities by indulging in a hearty local lunch.

Visitors can capture unforgettable memories of their snow-filled day in this winter wonderland.

Visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park

After enjoying the snow activities at Shiga Kogen, the tour then takes visitors to observe the famous Japanese macaques, or ‘snow monkeys,’ bathing in the natural hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park.

This unique wildlife experience allows travelers to witness the monkeys’ remarkable adaptation to the cold, snowy environment. The park’s walking trails lead visitors through the scenic mountain landscape to viewing areas where they can watch the monkeys relaxing in the steaming pools.

It’s an unforgettable sight, as the monkeys seem to revel in the warmth, seemingly oblivious to the freezing temperatures around them. With an English-speaking guide to provide context, this stop at Jigokudani is a highlight of the Shiga Kogen tour.

Meeting and Pickup Locations

Multiple pickup points are available for the Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen Tour, allowing travelers convenient access to the experience.

The tour then ends at the original meeting point upon conclusion.

Travelers can be picked up from multiple designated locations to start the tour.

The tour culminates with a return to the original meeting point where the experience began.

This flexible pickup and drop-off system ensures a seamless and convenient transportation experience.

Participants don’t have to worry about getting to the starting location as the tour provides the necessary transportation.

The meeting point and ending location are the same, allowing for a straightforward start and finish to the excursion.

What to Expect During the Tour

Participants meet at a central location and travel by coach to the Shiga Kogen Highlands, where they’ll spend hours enjoying a variety of snow activities at the ski resort.

They can try their hand at sledding, snow biking, and snow scootering, all while taking in the stunning mountain scenery.

After working up an appetite, the group will warm up with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Next, they’ll visit the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park and observe the captivating Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs.

Additional Tour Information

The tour includes confirmation provided at the time of booking, and infants 0-5 years old can join for free, though a meal isn’t included for them.

Rental clothing like snow jackets, pants, and boots is available for ¥500. Each tour has a maximum of 18 travelers.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness.

The walk to the Monkey Park involves trekking on snow and ice trails. Visitors should dress warmly and bring appropriate footwear for the winter conditions.

The tour ends at the original departure point after the return journey.

Transportation and Lunch Arrangements

Travelers are transported by coach from the central meeting point to the Shiga Kogen Highlands, where they’ll spend several hours enjoying the snow activities.

The tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant, giving participants a chance to warm up and refuel after their snowy adventures. The lunch menu features traditional Japanese cuisine, providing an authentic dining experience.

After lunch, the group will continue their tour by visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park to observe the famous Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs.

At the end of the day, the coach will return travelers to the original meeting point, concluding the comprehensive tour of Shiga Kogen’s winter wonders.

Rental Clothing and Group Size

For those who need it, the tour offers rental clothing options for snow activities, including jackets, pants, and boots, available for a fee of ¥500.

The group size is kept small, with a maximum of 18 travelers per tour, ensuring a more personalized and enjoyable experience.

Rental gear helps ensure you’re prepared for the snowy conditions. Small group size allows for more interaction with the guide.

Personalized attention and flexibility during the activities. Easier to navigate and move around as a compact group.

Enhances the overall experience and allows for a more intimate tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snow Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snow gear. The tour allows participants to use their own equipment during the snow activities at Shiga Kogen. However, rental gear is available if needed for an additional fee.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?

Yes, there may be an option to extend the tour length. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about the availability and cost of extending the duration to experience more of the snow activities and visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the snow activities, though infants under 5 are free without a meal. Participants should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy the snow activities and trail to the Monkey Park.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, private tours can be requested. The tour operator can accommodate private groups of up to 18 travelers, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply for private tour arrangements.

What Happens in the Event of Bad Weather?

If there is bad weather, the tour provider may adjust the itinerary or cancel the tour for safety. Customers would receive a full refund or be offered alternative options. The provider aims to ensure an enjoyable experience while prioritizing participant safety.

Recap

Set out on a winter wonderland adventure in Japan’s Shiga Kogen region. Enjoy a range of thrilling snow activities.

Witness the captivating sight of snow monkeys bathing in the natural hot springs of Jigokudani Park.

With transportation, activity fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide included, this one-day tour offers a seamless and unforgettable experience in a stunning winter setting.