Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Private Tour (Nagano, Nozawa, Myoko)

The Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Private Tour offers a chance to take in Nagano’s picturesque landscapes. Guests can explore the historic Shibu Onsen district, known for its traditional bathhouses and local crafts, before visiting the renowned Monkey Park to observe Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch included, this tour promises a memorable cultural and wildlife experience. What’s more, the moderate fitness level required for the scenic trails makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Good To Know

• This private day tour covers the highlights of Shibu Onsen and the Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, including roundtrip transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
• The tour features guided walks through the historic Shibu Onsen district and provides entry tickets to the Snow Monkey Park.
• Participants will enjoy a provided lunch and assistance with rain gear arrangements for a comfortable experience.
• The tour is priced at $480.16 for a group of up to 9 people and requires a moderate level of fitness.
• Certain medical conditions may make the tour unsuitable, and infants must sit on laps during transportation.

Tour Overview and Details

The Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Private Tour offers visitors a chance to experience the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Nagano, Japan.

This private tour lasts an entire day and includes roundtrip transportation, guided walks, and entry to the Monkey Park. Priced from $480.16 per group of up to 9 people, the tour provides excellent value.

Participants should be moderately fit as the walk to the Monkey Park requires navigating a 2km trail. The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Inclusions and Transportation

This private tour includes private transportation with an in-person guide and driver, as well as guided walks through the historic Shibu Onsen district.

Guests will receive:

• Monkey Park entry tickets to observe the famous snow monkeys
• A delicious lunch, ensuring they’re fueled for the day’s adventures
• Assistance navigating the tour, as luggage isn’t allowed during the experience
• Guidance on arranging their own rain gear, as it’s a necessity for the outdoor activities
• The peace of mind knowing the tour ends right back at their starting point.

Meeting and Pickup

Guests can select their preferred meeting point or request pickup for this tour. Whether it’s your hotel, a nearby landmark, or the tour operator’s office, the guide will be there to greet you and begin the adventure.

After exploring the historic Shibu Onsen and observing the snow monkeys in their natural habitat, the tour will end back at the original meeting location. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on making the most of your time in Nagano.

The guide will handle all the logistics, guiding you every step of the way.

Health and Safety Requirements

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

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with:

• Back problems
• Heart conditions
• Serious medical issues

Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Moderate physical fitness is required, as walking 2km to/from the Monkey Park isn’t advised.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

A fee of up to ¥30,000 may be charged for damages requiring vehicle service interruption.

Cancellation and Reservation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time). This policy allows guests to secure their spot while staying flexible.

To reserve the tour, customers don’t need to pay upfront. They can reserve now and pay later, which provides added convenience.

The supplier takes pride in their local knowledge and aim to deliver a unique and memorable experience.

Should a guest need to cancel within 24 hours, they’ll be subject to the full charge.

Exploring Shibu Onsen

One of the highlights of the Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Tour is the guided walk through the historic Shibu Onsen.

Guests will explore this traditional hot spring town, wandering down its narrow streets lined with ryokans and old buildings.

The tour highlights include:

• Admiring the ornate bathhouses and ryokans dating back centuries
• Peeking into the steaming outdoor onsens where locals soak
• Visiting the charming shops selling local crafts and delicacies
• Learning about the town’s rich history and cultural significance
• Experiencing the timeless atmosphere of this atmospheric Japanese town

Visiting the Snow Monkey Park

What makes the Snow Monkey Park so special? Nestled in the Japanese Alps, the park is home to a troop of Japanese macaques that have adapted to survive the harsh Nagano winters.

Visitors can witness these remarkable "snow monkeys" soaking in the natural hot springs, a behavior unique to this specific troop. The park’s guided tour allows guests to observe the monkeys’ daily lives and behaviors up close, while traversing scenic trails through the snowy landscape.

With limited capacity, the park offers an intimate and memorable encounter with this iconic Japanese wildlife. Whether watching the monkeys play or relax, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Feedback and Experiences

Judging by the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it seems the Snow Monkey & Shibu Onsen Private Tour consistently delivers an exceptional experience for visitors.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable and personable guides, who offer insights into the region’s rich history and culture.

The tour itinerary also receives high praise, with the guided walk through Shibu Onsen and the visit to the Snow Monkey Park standing out as particular highlights.

Reviewers describe the tour as a "unique" and "unforgettable" experience, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

The tour appears to offer a well-rounded and immersive exploration of Nagano’s natural and cultural wonders.

• Knowledgeable and personable guides
• Guided walk through historic Shibu Onsen
• Memorable visit to the Snow Monkey Park
• Insight into Nagano’s rich cultural heritage
• Overwhelmingly positive guest reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Snow Monkeys?

The best time to visit the snow monkeys is from December to March, when the winter weather allows the monkeys to enjoy their natural hot spring baths and provides stunning snowy landscapes for visitors to enjoy.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Snow Monkey Tour?

The Snow Monkey tour isn’t recommended for infants, as they must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers should also avoid this tour. Otherwise, there are no strict age restrictions, but participants need moderate physical fitness to handle the 2km walk to the Monkey Park.

Can We Stop for Sightseeing or Shopping During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include stops for sightseeing or shopping. It’s a focused experience visiting the Monkey Park and exploring Shibu Onsen. However, you can discuss options with the guide if you’d like to modify the itinerary.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour package has a fixed itinerary and timeline. Customers can’t add extra stops or activities during the tour. The tour length is set at the time of booking.

What Should We Bring for the Visit to Shibu Onsen?

Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a small towel or washcloth for the guided walk through Shibu Onsen. The tour doesn’t provide rain gear, so checking the weather and packing accordingly is recommended.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers an immersive cultural and wildlife experience in Nagano’s picturesque landscapes. Guests will explore the historic Shibu Onsen district and observe Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs at the renowned Monkey Park. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch included, this tour promises a memorable day for groups of up to nine, requiring moderate fitness for the scenic trails.