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

The 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating culture and natural wonders of Japan. From the enchanting snow monkeys of Jigokudani Park to the historic grandeur of Zenko-ji Temple, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. With a delightful sake tasting and a traditional Japanese lunch, it’s a seamless blend of cultural discovery and culinary indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour is sure to leave you with cherished memories…

Key Points

• This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen includes transportation, entry to Jigokudani Monkey Park, guided tour of Zenko-ji Temple, and sake tasting.
• The tour is recommended by 100% of travelers with an average rating of 5.0 from 12 reviews, offering an intimate experience for up to 44 participants.
• The tour features a scenic walk, Japanese-style lunch, and cultural/historical insights, with moderate physical fitness required for the 1.6 km walk to the monkey park.
• Guests can expect positive experiences, with highlights including the knowledgeable guides, enjoyable lunch, and the opportunity to see the snow monkeys.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen offers travelers the opportunity to explore the highlights of the region.

The tour includes transportation, entry to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, a guided tour of Zenko-ji Temple, and a sake tasting.

Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour has an average rating of 5.0 based on 12 reviews.

With a maximum of 44 participants, the tour provides an intimate experience.

The day includes a scenic walk to the monkey park, a Japanese-style lunch, and the chance to learn about the cultural and historical significance of the sites visited.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour price starts at $154.66 per person. This includes transport from/to Nozawa Onsen, entry to Jigokudani Monkey Park, lunch at Japanese Dining GOEN, a guided tour of Zenko-ji Temple, and a sake-tasting.

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Additional costs may include the optional entrance fee to Zenko-ji’s inner sanctuary, Shinkansen/Bullet Train tickets, and accommodation.

Lunch may vary based on restaurant availability and menu changes. The tour is subject to weather and road conditions, especially in winter.

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

Meeting Points and Schedule

The tour selects a meeting point, and the experience concludes at Nozawa Onsen by 18:00. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is subject to weather and road conditions, particularly in winter.

Meeting Point Options	Tour Schedule
Select location in Nozawa Onsen	Depart meeting point in morning
N/A	Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park
N/A	Enjoy lunch at Japanese Dining GOEN
N/A	Tour Zenko-ji Temple
N/A	Participate in sake tasting

The tour provides a convenient and comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to maximize their time in Nozawa Onsen.

Physical Requirements and Safety

Moderate physical fitness is required for this 1-Day Winter Tour from Nozawa Onsen.

The tour involves:

• A reasonable amount of walking (1.6km/1 mile) on an unsealed trail to and from the Jigokudani Monkey Park.
• Navigating potentially slippery and uneven terrain in winter conditions, which may include temperatures below 0°C.
• Maintaining a distance of 1-2 meters from the snow monkeys and following park rules for safety.
• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.
• Proper footwear and winter clothing are necessary to ensure comfort and safety throughout the day.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the tour’s knowledgeable guides, enjoyable lunch experience, and overall memorable experience.

Guests appreciated the scenic walk to and from the Jigokudani Monkey Park, as well as the opportunity to interact with the snow monkeys.

The sake tasting was a particular highlight, though some travelers noted they’d appreciate more historical context during this portion.

The tour offers a well-rounded culture, blending natural wonders, spiritual sites, and local culinary experiences.

Travelers consistently recommend this 1-day winter adventure from Nozawa Onsen.

Exploring the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani Park

As visitors venture along the 1.6 km (1 mile) unsealed trail to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, they’re treated to a serene winter landscape blanketed in snow.

The main attraction, of course, is the world-famous Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, bathing in the park’s natural hot springs. Visitors can observe these fascinating primates up close, taking note of their distinctive red faces and thick fur coats that protect them from the cold.

The experience offers a unique glimpse into the monkeys’ natural behavior and adaptations to their snowy environment.

Key highlights of the snow monkey experience include:

• Observing the monkeys soaking in the steaming hot springs
• Witnessing their social interactions and grooming behaviors
• Capturing stunning photography of the monkeys amidst the snowy landscape
• Learning about the monkeys’ biology and role in the local ecosystem
• Exploring the park’s scenic trails and natural surroundings

Discovering the Wonders of Zenko-ji Temple

After exploring the captivating snow monkeys of Jigokudani Park, the tour now heads to the historic Zenko-ji Temple. This famous Buddhist temple is over 1,400 years old and holds a hidden "key to paradise" beneath its main hall. Guests will enjoy a guided tour, learning about the temple’s architecture, history, and religious significance.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Impressive wooden structure with intricate details
History	Founded in the 7th century, one of Japan’s oldest temples
Significance	Enshrines the "key to paradise" – a highly revered object

The tour culminates with a chance to sample local sake, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Indulging in the Art of Sake Tasting

The tour concludes with a delightful sake tasting experience, where guests can indulge in the refined art of savoring local Japanese rice wine.

The knowledgeable guide leads the group through a selection of premium sakes, highlighting the nuanced flavors and production methods.

Guests learn about:

• The history and cultural significance of sake
• The impact of rice variety, water, and brewing techniques
• Appreciating the aroma, color, and mouthfeel of different sake styles
• Proper sake serving etiquette and temperature preferences
• Food pairings that enhance the flavors of the local rice wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The best time to visit the snow monkeys is typically in the early to mid-afternoon. This is when the monkeys are most active and engaging as they bathe in the natural hot springs to stay warm during the colder winter months.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a Japanese-style lunch at the GOEN restaurant, and participants are not permitted to bring outside food or beverages during the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Multiple Days?

There’s no option to extend this 1-day tour to multiple days. The tour package is limited to a single day, but guests can book additional accommodations or activities separately if they want to extend their stay in the area.

Will There Be Any Photography Opportunities During the Sake Tasting?

The tour includes a sake tasting, but there may not be dedicated photography opportunities during this portion. However, travelers are generally welcome to take photos of the sake-making process and tasting experience, as long as they respect any restrictions set by the sake brewery.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Crafts During the Tour?

Yes, there may be opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local crafts during the tour. The tour itinerary includes a visit to Zenko-ji Temple, which often has shops selling traditional Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs.

The Sum Up

This 1-day winter tour from Nozawa Onsen promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can observe the captivating snow monkeys, explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, and savor the art of sake tasting. Designed for up to 44 participants, the tour includes a scenic walk, a traditional Japanese lunch, and insightful cultural commentary. With rave reviews from previous travelers, it’s a must-try adventure for anyone seeking a unique winter getaway.