1-Day Winter Tour From Nozawa Onsen: Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake

This one-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen promises an immersive cultural experience in Japan’s stunning landscapes. Visitors will encounter the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park, explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and enjoy a guided sake tasting. With round-trip transport, park entry, and lunch included, this intimate tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Japan’s winter beauty and traditions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a cultural connoisseur, this excursion caters to a range of interests and fitness levels. What’s in store for those who embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen visits Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenko-ji Temple, and includes a guided sake tasting.
• The tour provides round-trip transport, park entry, lunch, and guided experiences, with a maximum group size of 44 travelers.
• Moderate fitness is required for the 1.6 km (1 mile) walk to the monkey park, and appropriate winter attire is essential.
• Snowfall and ice may affect trail conditions and park access from mid-December to early-April, requiring rental boots and crampons.
• The tour has free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, with a reserve now and pay later option.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen offers travelers the chance to visit the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and enjoy a guided sake tasting.

The tour includes round-trip transport, park entry, lunch, and guided experiences. With a maximum of 44 travelers, the tour provides an intimate group setting.

However, guests should note the moderate fitness level required and potential weather/wildlife challenges.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a lowest price guarantee is offered for this highly-rated, 100% recommended tour.

Itinerary and Activities

The 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen begins with a visit to the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park.

Guests embark on a 1.6 km (1 mile) walk along an unsealed forest trail to observe the wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat.

The tour then moves to the historic Zenko-ji Temple, where a guided tour reveals the temple’s rich history and architecture.

The final activity is a guided sake tasting, offering guests a chance to sample local, premium sake varieties.

The tour concludes by 6 PM, subject to weather conditions.

Key highlights of the tour include:

1. Witnessing the iconic snow monkeys of Jigokudani Park.
2. Exploring the centuries-old Zenko-ji Temple with a local guide.
3. Indulging in a guided sake tasting experience.

Health and Safety Requirements

Although a moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the walking involved, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for mobility-impaired travelers.

Guests must maintain a distance of 1 to 2 meters from the monkeys and are prohibited from feeding or touching them.

Appropriate winter attire is essential, as temperatures may drop below 0°C.

Rental boots and crampons are available near the monkey park during the colder months to help navigate the snowy and icy trails.

Weather and Wildlife Considerations

From mid-December to early-April, snow and ice may affect trails and park access, potentially impacting the tour. Guests should be prepared for winter conditions, as temperatures can drop below 0°C.

This means:

1. Proper winter attire, such as warm clothing, appropriate footwear, and protection against the elements, is essential.

2. Rental boots and crampons may be available near the Jigokudani Monkey Park during the winter months to assist with navigating icy trails.

3. While the tour give you opportunities to observe the wild monkeys, sightings can’t be guaranteed, as the monkeys may not always be present or may behave unpredictably.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Confirmation of the tour booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Travelers can cancel their reservation free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. This offers flexibility in planning.

The tour costs from $154.43 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. Guests can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, providing further convenience.

Whether travelers book well in advance or need a last-minute trip, this 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen has flexible policies to accommodate various needs.

About Jigokudani Monkey Park

As visitors approach the Jigokudani Monkey Park, they’ll embark on a 1.6 km (1 mile) walk along an unsealed forest trail to reach the park.

Once there, they’ll have the opportunity to observe the famous wild Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, as they relax in the natural hot springs.

However, it’s important to maintain a safe distance of 1 to 2 meters from the monkeys, as feeding or touching them is strictly prohibited.

Plus, guests should dress appropriately for the winter conditions, as temperatures may drop below 0°C.

1. Snow monkeys’ behavior can be unpredictable, and sightings aren’t guaranteed.
2. Rental boots and crampons are available near the park during the winter months.
3. The trail and park access may be affected by snow and ice from mid-December to early-April.

Exploring Zenko-ji Temple

Following the guided tour at Jigokudani Monkey Park, the 1-Day Winter Tour from Nozawa Onsen continues its exploration at the historic Zenko-ji Temple.

Guests embark on a guided tour of this important Buddhist shrine, learning about its rich history and cultural significance. The temple’s inner sanctuary is accessible for an optional entrance fee, allowing visitors to witness the sacred space.

With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, the group delves into the temple’s architectural details and the traditions that have endured for centuries, enriching their understanding of Japanese heritage.

Sake Tasting Experience

What better way to conclude the 1-Day Winter Tour from Nozawa Onsen than with a guided sake tasting experience?

After exploring Jigokudani Monkey Park and the historic Zenko-ji Temple, guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of premium sake.

The tasting is led by a knowledgeable local guide, who provides insight into the region’s rich sake-making tradition.

Guests can expect to learn about:

1. The unique brewing process and flavor profiles of different sake varieties.
2. The cultural significance of sake in Japanese cuisine and celebrations.
3. Recommendations for the best sake to pair with various dishes.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring Food to Feed the Monkeys?

Feeding the monkeys is strictly prohibited. Visitors must maintain a distance of 1 to 2 meters from the monkeys and refrain from touching or interacting with them, as this can disrupt the natural behavior of the wild animals.

What Languages Are the Tours Available In?

The tours are available in English. According to the information provided, the tours include guided tours at Zenko-ji Temple, and a guided sake-tasting. The tour highlights do not mention any other languages being offered.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Guests of all ages are welcome to participate, though moderate physical fitness is required due to the walking involved. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts, but a lowest price guarantee is offered. Travelers should check the tour provider’s website or inquire about any available promotions or discounts when booking.

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Preferences?

While the tour is pre-set, you can customize your experience by speaking with the tour operator about your preferences and any special requirements. They may be able to accommodate certain modifications to the itinerary or activities.

The Sum Up

This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen offers a unique opportunity to take in Japanese culture. Visitors can marvel at the snow monkeys, discover the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and savor the flavors of local sake, all while surrounded by the stunning winter landscapes of Japan. With convenient transport and a range of activities, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable cultural experience.