The Snow Monkey, Shiga Kogen Roman Museum with Lunch Buffet tour offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Guests can witness the fascinating behavior of the snow monkeys in their natural habitat, followed by a delectable buffet lunch showcasing the country’s culinary diversity. With over 130 options, including vegetarian dishes, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that seamlessly blends nature, gastronomy, and the unique Roman-inspired architecture of the Shiga Kogen region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a lover of Japanese cuisine, or simply seeking an unforgettable day trip, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points

- Explore the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to observe snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.
- Enjoy a hassle-free coach transport with prebooked entry tickets from Shinjuku.
- Indulge in a buffet lunch with over 130 food options, including vegetarian choices.
- Engage with an onboard audio guide providing informative commentary about the snow monkeys.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for the snow monkey viewing experience.
Tour Overview
Experience snow monkeys bathing in hot springs at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park on this day trip from Tokyo.
Enjoy hassle-free coach transport from Shinjuku and prebooked entry tickets to save time. An onboard audio guide will provide information about the snow monkeys along the way.
At the park, you’ll have the chance to observe these unique primates in their natural habitat.
The tour also includes a buffet lunch featuring over 130 food options, with a vegetarian menu available as an alternative to the popular shabu-shabu lunch.
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Departure and Pickup Details

The tour departs at 7:15 am from the Shinjuku Center Building, located at 1-chōme-25-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo.
Travelers will return to the same meeting point at the end of the day.
A minimum of 15 participants is required to confirm the tour departure, and notifications will be sent 7 days in advance if the tour is canceled.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.
Onboard Experience

Once aboard the coach, travelers can enjoy an onboard audio guide that provides informative commentary about the snow monkeys. The guide shares fascinating facts about these unique primates, their habitat, and the cultural significance of the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.
The audio is accompanied by scenic views of the countryside, building anticipation for the upcoming encounter.
The onboard experience offers several highlights:
- Engaging narration that enhances the journey.
- Visuals that complement the audio, painting a vivid picture.
- Opportunities to ask questions and interact with the guide.
- A comfortable and hassle-free transportation to the park.
Lunch Options

As a highlight of the tour, travelers can indulge in a buffet lunch featuring an impressive array of over 130 food options.
The buffet caters to diverse dietary needs, including a vegetarian menu. Alternatively, guests can opt for a shabu-shabu (all-you-can-eat) lunch, where they can enjoy the interactive experience of cooking their own meat and vegetables at the table.
The hearty and varied lunch options are designed to refuel and reenergize travelers before they continue their adventure to explore the snow monkeys.
Lunch is included in the tour package, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying snow monkey experience.
Shiga Kogen Roman Museum

According to the tour itinerary, a visit to the Shiga Kogen Roman Museum may be included, though it may be cut due to traffic conditions.
The museum showcases the region’s Roman-influenced history through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore:
- Impressive 3D models reconstructing ancient Roman structures.
- Informative displays on the cultural exchange between Rome and Shiga Kogen.
- Hands-on activities allowing guests to experience Roman-era crafts and technologies.
- Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains from the museum’s observation deck.
The decision to visit the museum will depend on time and traffic constraints on the day of the tour.
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Snow Monkey Viewing

Though the tour may not visit the Shiga Kogen Roman Museum due to traffic conditions, the highlight remains the opportunity to observe the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.
Guests will marvel at the unique experience of watching the monkeys bathe in the hot springs, a sight that showcases the animals’ adaptation to the snowy environment.
The tour includes prebooked entry tickets, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Visitors are advised to dress warmly and not to feed the monkeys, as they live in the wild.
Despite potential weather conditions, the snow monkey viewing promises an unforgettable experience.
Important Considerations

While the snow monkey viewing is the main attraction, there are several important considerations for guests to keep in mind.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Dressing warmly and wearing comfortable shoes and gloves is essential for the snowy walk.
Guests should be aware that the snow monkeys may not be soaking in the hot springs due to seasonal conditions, and there are no refunds for this.
On top of that, visitors are strictly prohibited from feeding the monkeys, as they’re wild animals.
Guest Reviews and Ratings

The tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 100% recommendation rate based on 10 guest evaluations. The tour boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating, with no negative feedback noted. Guests praised the fantastic guide, generous lunch, enjoyable trek, and overall great experience, despite the long travel time.
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Guide | Fantastic |
| Lunch | Generous |
| Trek | Enjoyable |
| Overall | Great |
The glowing reviews and high ratings suggest this tour provides an exceptional experience for visitors seeking to encounter the captivating snow monkeys in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Visit the Snow Monkeys Independently?
Yes, visitors can visit the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park independently. The park is open to the public, and guests can purchase tickets on-site without joining a guided tour.
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is 15 participants. However, the exact average group size is not specified in the provided information.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a buffet lunch with 130 options, and a possible alternative of an all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu meal. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses Not Covered in the Tour Price?
The tour price covers all necessary expenses, including prebooked entry tickets and a buffet lunch. There are no additional fees or expenses not included in the tour price.
Can We Extend Our Stay at the Snow Monkey Park After the Tour Ends?
Unfortunately, the tour does not allow for extending the stay at the snow monkey park after the tour ends. The tour has a fixed itinerary and schedule that must be followed.
The Sum Up
The Snow Monkey, Shiga Kogen Roman Museum with Lunch Buffet tour offers an incredible opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Japanese countryside. With a delightful buffet lunch and a visit to the Shiga Kogen Roman Museum, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that combines culture, nature, and culinary delights, making it an unforgettable day trip.
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