Overview
Snow Monkey Hot Spring Tour departs Hakuba daily in winter.
Approximately 2 hours drive from Hakuba lies the world famous Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park, home to over 200 wild Japanese Macaque monkeys, fondly referred to as the snow monkey. These monkeys spend their days soaking in natural hot springs and have become an international sensation.
Enjoy over an hour in the pristine Jigokudani valley observing the most adorable monkeys bathe, play, and eat in and around the hot springs. Because of the very steep cliffs and the steam coming off the springs in everywhere, ancient people called this valley ‘Jigokudani (Hell valley). You will be transferred back in time when you walk through the valley (about 30 mins walk from the bus stop each way) when you arrive you will be able to see the monkeys in this unique natural environment which is buried in snow almost one third of the year.
After the tour departs the snow monkey park you will make your way to the historic town of Obuse, home to the famous Japanese artist Hokusai and Masuichi Sake Brewery. Lunch is a delicious set course traditional Japanese meal with a choice of main course of beef, fish or vegetarian and includes a local tasting of delicious Sake.
After Lunch the next stop is Nagano City home to Zenkoji Temple, designated a national treasure and has a history of over 1,400 years. It is one of Japan's most revered temples and houses the first image of Buddha brought to Japan in the 7th century. The streets surrounding the temple are lined with lantern lit shops and tiered roofed stalls, souvenir shops and galleries. You will have time to explore the temple and do some shopping while you are here.
The tour then heads back to Hakuba which is about an hour away and will conclude when the bus arrives at your designated drop off bus stop in Goryu, Echoland, Happo or Wadano.
*Includes all transportation, English speaking guide, entry into Jigokudani wild monkey hot-spring park and lunch.