Discover the enchanting world of Japan’s snow monkeys and the mesmerizing Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival on this captivating 1-day tour. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Snow Monkey Park, where you’ll witness the iconic Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs. As the day draws to a close, prepare to be captivated by the ethereal glow of thousands of lanterns illuminating the historic Zenko-ji Temple. This immersive cultural experience promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Japan’s hidden gems.

Key Points

  • This 1-day tour offers an opportunity to visit the Snow Monkey Park and experience the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival in Nagano, Japan.
  • The tour includes entry to the Snow Monkey Park, a delicious dinner, and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle and bullet train, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
  • The tour has a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring an immersive experience, and is rated 5.0 based on 4 reviews.
  • Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible but near public transportation.
  • Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience without penalties, and a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available.

Tour Overview

The 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour takes visitors on an unforgettable adventure to Nagano, Japan. Priced from $171.55 per person, this tour promises an immersive experience with a maximum of 25 travelers.

Highlights include entry to the renowned Snow Monkey Park, a delicious dinner, and a visit to the breathtaking Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival.

With convenient transportation, an English-speaking guide, and bullet train tickets included, this tour offers a seamless and enriching exploration of Nagano’s natural and cultural wonders.

The tour earns a perfect 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews.

Inclusions

Included in the 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour are entry tickets to the renowned Snow Monkey Park, where visitors can witness the remarkable sight of Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs.

Travelers will also enjoy a delicious dinner and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle and Shinkansen/Bullet Train, all accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

The tour provides a seamless experience, with convenient meeting and drop-off points at Nagano Station.

Though a moderate level of physical fitness is required, the tour’s inclusions ensure a comfortable and memorable exploration of Nagano’s natural and cultural treasures.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers meet the English-speaking guide at 12:55 PM in front of the information board across from the shinkansen ticket gates at Nagano Station.

The guide wears a Snow Monkey Resorts tour tag, making them easy to identify. From this central meeting point, the group departs together aboard the air-conditioned vehicle.

At the end of the tour, the group returns to the same location at Nagano Station. This convenient pickup and drop-off location ensures a seamless start and finish to the day’s adventures exploring the snow monkeys and Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival.

Additional Information

Although this 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, travelers with infant seats can still participate.

Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of booking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation. Infants are welcome and provided with car seats.

The tour culminates at the original meeting point in Nagano Station, where the guide with the Snow Monkey Resorts tour tag will be waiting. Guests have the flexibility to cancel their reservations up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties.

Booking Details

Guests have the flexibility to cancel their reservations up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties. This convenient policy allows them to plan their trip with ease.

For those who prefer to pay later, the tour offers a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option. This enables guests to secure their spot without an upfront payment, providing added flexibility.

The tour is operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours, a subsidiary of Machinovate Japan Ltd., ensuring a reliable and professional experience.

With these booking options, guests can confidently plan their unforgettable 1-day excursion to the Snow Monkeys and Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival.

Exploring the Snow Monkey Park

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the enchanting Snow Monkey Park, where travelers can witness the remarkable Japanese macaques as they soak in the hot springs to stay warm during the chilly winter months.

The park offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, surrounded by the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscapes.

Visitors can expect to see:

  • Monkeys relaxing in the steaming hot springs, grooming each other, and playing.
  • Breathtaking vistas of the park’s mountainous terrain and lush forests.
  • Informative commentary from the knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Experiencing the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival

After exploring the serene Snow Monkey Park, the tour continues to the captivating Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival. This vibrant event illuminates the historic Zenko-ji Temple, casting a warm glow over the entire area. Visitors can stroll through the festival, taking in the mesmerizing displays of traditional Japanese lanterns. The festival offers a unique cultural experience, allowing guests to enjoy the rich heritage of Nagano.

Highlights Description
Zenko-ji Temple Iconic Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century
Tomyo Lanterns Intricate handcrafted lanterns illuminating the temple grounds
Cultural Performances Traditional music, dance, and demonstrations
Local Cuisine Opportunity to savor delicious Japanese delicacies

Getting to Nagano and the Tour Route

Although the Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival are located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, getting to the tour’s starting point in Nagano City is a straightforward journey.

The tour includes:

  • Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets from major cities to Nagano Station
  • Air-conditioned vehicle transportation from the meeting point to the Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple
  • An English-speaking guide to accompany travelers throughout the day’s activities

From Nagano Station, the tour group will depart for the Snow Monkey Park, located just an hour’s drive away, before visiting the stunning Zenko-ji Temple and its vibrant lantern festival in the evening.

Since You Asked

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The winter weather during the tour can be chilly, with temperatures often below freezing. Visitors should dress warmly in layers and bring appropriate gear like hats, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable in the snowy conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but additional food, snacks, and drinks are not included in the tour price. The tour provides a hearty dinner as part of the experience.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour does not have an age limit, but it requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Infants are welcome, with child seats available. Families with children of all ages are encouraged to participate in this immersive cultural experience.

Can I Extend My Stay in Nagano After the Tour?

Guests can extend their stay in Nagano after the tour, as the experience ends at the original meeting point. However, any additional accommodations or activities beyond the tour itself would need to be arranged separately by the traveler.

What Should I Pack for the Tour?

Travelers should pack warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, snacks, and water for the snow monkey park visit. Plus, they may want to bring cash for souvenirs or extra expenses during the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival.

The Sum Up

The 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural wonder of Japan’s snow monkeys and take in the enchanting ambiance of the Tomyo Lantern Festival. With convenient transportation, an expert guide, and a seamless experience, it’s the perfect way to explore Nagano’s cultural treasures and create lifelong memories.