Snow Monkey, Hokusai & Sake: A Perfect Day in Nagano

Nagano’s Snow Monkey Park, Hokusai Museum, and premium sake tasting offer an unforgettable blend of nature, art, and culture. Visitors can observe the famous Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs, then dive into the world of the renowned ukiyo-e artist Hokusai. To complete the experience, a guided sake tasting showcases the region’s centuries-old brewing traditions. This carefully curated day trip promises to delight the senses and leave you eager to discover more about Nagano’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning Snow Monkey Park, home to Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs, and enjoy a guided premium sake tasting.
• Enjoy the world of renowned ukiyo-e artist Hokusai at the Hokusai Museum, discovering his iconic woodblock prints and interactive exhibits.
• Savor a locally-sourced lunch featuring fresh chicken, pork, or vegetarian grated yam dishes during the full-day tour.
• Roundtrip transportation is provided, with the option to be dropped off at the Zenkoji Temple at the end of the tour.
• Moderate fitness level is required for the 1-mile walk to the Snow Monkey Park, but the trail is well-maintained and suitable for those without significant mobility issues.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

This full-day tour in Nagano, Japan, offers a diverse array of experiences.

It includes a delightful lunch featuring fresh, local ingredients with chicken, pork, or vegetarian grated yam options. Guests will then venture to the iconic Snow Monkey Park, where they can witness the Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs.

A premium sake tasting and a visit to the Hokusai Museum are also part of the itinerary. The tour provides round-trip transportation and an optional drop-off at the historic Zenkoji Temple.

With a maximum of 7 travelers, this immersive experience showcases the best of Nagano’s natural and cultural wonders.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this tour is in front of the Starbucks Coffee – MIDORI Nagano, located at 1-chōme-22-6 Minamichitose, Nagano, 380-8543, Japan.

The tour begins promptly at 8:45 AM, so travelers should arrive on time.

At the end of the day, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

Transportation fees to the meeting point, located at Nagano Station, aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and strollers aren’t permitted.

Infants must sit on laps, as child seats aren’t provided.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting to the meeting point at Nagano Station isn’t included in the tour price.

You’ll need to make your own way there, whether by train, bus, or private transport.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and strollers aren’t permitted. Infants must sit on laps as there are no child seats.

A moderate fitness level is required, as the 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) walk to the Snow Monkey Park is on a relatively flat trail.

Travelers from Tokyo should take the 6:52 AM or 7:20 AM Shinkansen to arrive on time for the 8:45 AM start.

Be advised that the tour may experience slight delays due to traffic.

Snow Monkey Park Experience

What’s the 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) walk each way on a relatively flat trail like to the Snow Monkey Park?

It’s an easy stroll through scenic, snowy forests – a unique experience regardless of whether the monkeys are present.

Though the trail is well-maintained, the possibility of monkeys not appearing due to natural factors means no refunds if they’re absent.

Visitors must maintain a moderate fitness level, as the walk isn’t suitable for those with significant mobility issues.

But for those able to make the trek, it’s a chance to enjoy Nagano’s captivating winter wonderland, even if the famous hot spring-soaking monkeys don’t show up.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

After exploring the stunning Snow Monkey Park, travelers can refuel with a delightful lunch featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

The tour includes a choice of chicken, pork, or vegetarian grated yam dishes, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions.

Diners can savor the bold flavors and textures of these dishes, made with care using premium local produce.

This meal not only nourishes but also provides a taste of Nagano’s vibrant food culture, complementing the day’s immersive experiences.

With this hearty lunch, travelers can recharge and continue their journey through the historic town of Obuse.

Premium Sake Tasting

Following the tour’s lunch, travelers can look forward to a premium sake tasting experience.

This exclusive activity provides an opportunity to sample a variety of high-quality sake:

1. Guided by a knowledgeable sake sommelier, who’ll provide insights into the history, production, and flavor profiles of the selected sakes.
2. Tasting a range of premium, locally-produced sakes, offering a chance to discover the unique terroir and craftsmanship of Nagano’s sake breweries.
3. Learning about the proper serving techniques and food pairings to enhance the sake-tasting experience.
4. Purchasing favorite bottles to take home and share with friends and family.

Hokusai Museum Exploration

After completing the sake tasting, guests venture to the Hokusai Museum to explore the renowned artist’s works.

The museum offers an immersive experience, showcasing Hokusai’s iconic woodblock prints, paintings, and drawings. Visitors can admire the famous "Great Wave off Kanagawa" and learn about the artist’s life and evolution of his unique style.

The museum’s interactive exhibits provide deeper insights into Hokusai’s creative process and the cultural significance of his art.

With ample time to wander the galleries, guests can fully appreciate the mastery and innovation that defined Hokusai’s legendary career.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the natural, artistic, and culinary wonders of Nagano. Start your day observing the Snow Monkeys, then explore the art of Hokusai. End your journey with a premium sake tasting, savoring the flavors of the region. This unforgettable experience blends Japan’s captivating culture, inviting you to discover the beauty and traditions of Nagano.