Viator Rating : 5 (1 reviews)
Tokyo
Snow Monkeys & Zenkoji: Private Tour
600
Overview
Snow Monkey Park & Zenkoji Private Tour takes travelers on a memorable day through Nagano's highlights. This tour offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and culture.
Expect to visit Obuse, a lovely town famous for its connection to the artist Hokusai and its delicious chestnut sweets. The tour includes a visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where guests can watch adorable snow monkeys relaxing in natural hot springs. Next, experience the old-time charm of Shibu Onsen, a pretty village with hot springs that looks like it’s from the Edo period. Finally, the tour visits Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples.
This 10-hour experience includes pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, fuel, and parking fees. Food, entrance fees, and other personal expenses are not included. This is a private tour, so only the group booked will participate. Guests can contact us to customize the tour. 
Highlights
See Snow Monkeys Up Close: Watch cute snow monkeys bathe in hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Explore Historic Zenkoji Temple: Discover one of Japan's oldest and most important Buddhist temples.
Visit Charming Obuse Town: Enjoy the artistic town of Obuse, known for Hokusai and chestnut sweets.
Relax in Shibu Onsen: Experience the beauty of this traditional hot spring village.
Private and Customizable: Enjoy a tour only for your group.
Hassle-Free Transportation: Pick up and drop off, fuel and parking fees are all included.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the snow monkeys in their natural habitat.
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The guide was friendly and helpful.
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The tour provided a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
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Visiting the temples offered a calm and memorable experience.
Some customers mention additional fees for lunch and entrance fees.
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Travel time between locations can be a bit long.
The Journey
Obuse
Discover Obuse, a picturesque town nestled in the Nagano Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite chestnuts, a local culinary delicacy. Wander through streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, remnants of a bygone era. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by Obuse's deep connection to the celebrated Edo-period artist, Katsushika Hokusai, best known for 'The Great Wave.' Hokusai spent his final years in Obuse, leaving behind a legacy that is celebrated at the Hokusai-kan Museum. Indulge in chestnut-flavored treats, explore historical architecture, and immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of this charming town.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Journey to Jigokudani Monkey Park, a world-renowned sanctuary where you can witness the endearing spectacle of Japanese Macaques, also known as Snow Monkeys. Observe these fascinating creatures as they gather and often bathe in a natural hot spring pool, particularly enchanting during the winter months when the surrounding landscape is covered in snow. This unique experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the natural behaviors of these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Capture stunning photos and create lasting memories amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Japanese Alps.
Shibu Onsen
Immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of Shibu Onsen, a historic hot spring town located near the famed Jigokudani Monkey Park. Stroll along the nostalgic stone-paved streets, lined with traditional wooden inns (ryokan) that exude authentic Japanese hospitality. Shibu Onsen boasts numerous public bathhouses, each offering a unique and rejuvenating experience. The town preserves a remarkably traditional atmosphere, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Experience the quintessential Japanese onsen culture and unwind in the serene ambiance of this captivating town.
Zenkō-ji Temple
Discover Zenkō-ji, a near-1,400-year-old sanctuary and one of Japan's most significant pilgrimage sites. Founded in the 7th century, this temple holds a revered Buddha statue, the first to ever be brought to Japan. Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to its rich history and spiritual significance. Dare to experience the mysterious "Key to Paradise," navigating Zenkō-ji's pitch-black underground passage in search of enlightenment. The temple's magnificent architecture, serene atmosphere, and profound history offer a truly unforgettable spiritual journey.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes pick-up and drop-off services for the group. An English-speaking driver and transportation costs like fuel and parking are provided for the 10-hour duration. The tour excludes lunch and admission fees to the various attractions. Please note that this is a private experience, so only the group that books will participate.
Hot Tip
Real reviews show the best time to see the monkeys is in the winter. Customers enjoy bringing extra money for local snacks and souvenirs. Allow for flexible timing due to weather
Review Summary
Customers generally say this private Snow Monkey Park & Zenkoji tour is a highlight of their Japan trip, praising the knowledgeable, friendly guides, smooth private transport from Tokyo, and the beautiful mix of nature, traditional onsen towns, and historic Zenkoji Temple found in the itinerary.[443527P29] They frequently mention that seeing the snow monkeys up close in their natural hot-spring environment and strolling through atmospheric Shibu Onsen and Obuse feels authentic and unhurried, with guides flexible about adjusting the schedule to guests’ interests.[443527P29] On the downside, some reviewers note that the long drive from Tokyo makes for a tiring day, and a few mention that the walk to the monkey park can be challenging in snow or ice, so appropriate footwear and realistic expectations about winter conditions are important.[443527P29]
Frequently Asked Questions
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