Tours/Asakusa/From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano
From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano
4.6(38)Asakusa10–12 hours
VIATOR4.4(10)TRIPADVISOR4.7(28)
+12 photos
At a glance
Duration
10–12 hours
Price from
$582 / person
Location
Asakusa
Rating
4.6 / 5 · 38 reviews
Group
Private
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Hotel pickup
Available
Confirmation
Instant
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operator
Milkyway Tours
Description
Join us on a mesmerizing journey through Nagano, where cultural heritage and natural wonders collide!
Zenkoji Temple: Start at this 1,400-year-old landmark known for its historic architecture, and the underground passage where you can touch the “Key to Paradise” for good fortune.
Jigokudani Monkey Park: Head into the Japanese Alps to see snow monkeys relaxing in natural hot springs, set against stunning mountain scenery.
Tour Highlights:
Cultural Delight: Learn about Zenkoji Temple's inclusive, no-barrier policy and delve into its rich history spanning over centuries.
Natural Beauty: Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of the Japanese Alps.
Note:
1. The Drive from Tokyo to Jigokudani Monkey Park is around 3 to 3:30 hours.
2. The walk from the main parking/bus drop-off area to Jigokudani Monkey Park is 25–35 minutes each way.
3. You may see some monkeys or might not see any one in breeding season.(October to December)
4. Do not make evening plans because of the long drive
Schedule & prices
Runs
Every day
Start times
7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 9:00 AM
Next available
Fri, Oct 9
Group price
$582 per group of up to 5
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 8.
Tour Options
Tokyo to Nagano Snow Monkey
Pickup included
Itinerary
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Admission not included60 min
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park offers a unique chance to experience wildlife in a natural hot spring setting. Famous for its bathing snow monkeys, it’s a rare sight found only in this peaceful corner of Japan.
The park is beautiful year-round—snowy winters, blooming springs, colorful autumns, and lush summers—making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Easily accessible with walking paths and viewing areas, it also offers helpful guides and nearby traditional ryokans for a comfortable stay with local cuisine. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers, it’s a memorable nature escape worth adding to your Japan trip.
You may choose to visit either Zenkoji Sesonin Temple or jigokudani snow monkey park.
Tokyo Center Point to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is 3h 36m (254 km)
Zenkoji Sesonin Shakado Temple
Admission not included60 min
Zenkōji Temple is a timeless symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur in Nagano, Japan. With over 1,400 years of history, this revered Buddhist temple is renowned for its religious cultural heritage.
Approaching the temple, its grand architecture commands attention. Imposing gateways, intricate wooden structures, and graceful pagodas captivate the eye. The aura of tranquility envelops visitors, inviting them to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery.
Entering main hall, the Hondo, reveals the awe-inspiring Amida Buddha statue. This sacred icon is revered for its compassionate presence. The atmosphere inside is one of reverence and contemplation. Worshippers and visitors alike offer prayers and pay homage to this revered deity.
The temple grounds also feature beautiful gardens and peaceful pathways. Experience the spiritual depth of Zenkōji Temple. Book your visit now.
You may choose to visit either Zenkoji Sesonin Temple or jigokudani snow monkey park.
Nagano Prefecture
Pass by
As you journey through Japan, Nagano Prefecture beckons with its captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Nagano offers a picturesque landscape with majestic mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes. In winter, it transforms into a snowy paradise for skiing and snowboarding, while spring brings vibrant cherry blossoms and perfect hiking conditions. Summer offers lush greenery and outdoor activities like cycling and boating, and autumn paints the forests in stunning colors ideal for photography.
Nagano is rich in cultural heritage with historic sites like Zenkoji Temple and Matsumoto Castle. The charming town of Obuse offers traditional streets, art museums, and delicious chestnut sweets. Relax in hot springs in Yamanouchi and see the famous snow monkeys. Nagano's culinary scene is a delight with fresh soba noodles, local sake, and farm-to-table cuisine. Book your visit to Nagano Prefecture now.
Shibu Onsen
40 min
Shibu Onsen is renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, believed to have healing properties that rejuvenate both body and soul. Visitors can immerse themselves in restorative waters at various public bathhouses scattered throughout the village. Each bathhouse offers a unique atmosphere and mineral composition, providing a different experience at every stop. The soothing hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
The village itself exudes charm with its narrow streets, traditional inns, and historic architecture. Staying in a ryokan lets you experience authentic Japanese hospitality. Enjoy delicious local cuisine and unwind in the comfort of your room. The area is also close to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where you can see monkeys soaking in hot springs. Shibu Onsen is a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Book your visit now to experience the tranquil and rejuvenating charm of Shibu Onsen.
What's included
Included
Private transportation
Customizable itinerary
English Speaking Driver
Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel/accommodation
Professional fluent English speaking driver
Not included
Meals
All Fees and Taxes
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Zenkoji Temple (Gohonzon curtain opening)
Guide
Pickup Locations & Times
We will pick up from your hotel or location. We will drop off on the pick up location. We suggest to share the pin location or accurate street address or stop where we should pick up you on time. Share your locations earlier on the time of booking.
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
4.6
38 reviews
5
32
4
1
3
3
2
1
1
1
Important Information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Travel time is included in the total duration.
Travelers should be prepared for a 45-minute walk from the parking area to Snow Monkey Park, which includes stairways.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano take?
From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano lasts about 10–12 hours. The itinerary has 4 stops.
How much does From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano cost?
Prices start at $582 per person for this Asakusa experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 9:00 AM.
Can I cancel From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. We will pick up from your hotel or location. We will drop off on the pick up location. We suggest to share the pin location or accurate street address or stop where we should pick up you on time. Share your locations earlier on the time of booking. Pickup points include Hiromas Hotel Kotobuki.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 15 travellers can book together.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Specialized infant seats are available
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessible Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 38 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Milkyway Tours.
Reviews(38)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
K
KMtrav
August 26, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Monkey Magic!!
This has been a fantastic long day! Our driver/guide Sana made sure we were comfortable throughout and guided us through each stop. He was full of interesting information about all the areas we drove through. It was nice to drive through parts of Japan that we would never had seen. The scenery was amazing! We opted for the town visit, which was lovely. We tried sake where it was brewed and ate some lovely chestnut sweets. We then made our way to see the Snow Monkeys. This is where the 3 1/2 hr journey was more than worth it. We went in August, so while it wasn’t cold, there was a lot of little baby monkeys running around. We all loved it. The monkeys came quite close but are not really interested in you. All in all this was a great trip and was a real highlight of our trip! Thanks again to Sana, for all his help throughout the trip. He was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.
Operator response
Thank you for your wonderful and detailed review! We’re delighted to hear that Sana made your Snow Monkey and Nagano journey comfortable, informative, and memorable. It’s great to know that the scenic drive, town visit, and adorable baby monkeys made the trip a highlight of your Japan experience. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you again!
L
Laura_T
August 21, 2026 · via Viator
Attary was amazing. Even...
Attary was amazing. Even if all we did was see the snow monkeys this tour would be worth it. If you can take his advice and have him pick you up early, I would. We couldn't and were stuck with a lot of traffic both ways but the vehicle is super comfy. I would eat at the café at the snow monkey place. It was fantastic and very good priced
Operator response
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that Attary made your Snow Monkey tour memorable and that you enjoyed the comfortable vehicle and experience. We also appreciate your feedback about the early start recommendation, which can help avoid heavy traffic. We hope to welcome you again on your next trip to Japan!
O
Omar_M
July 22, 2026 · via Viator
Out of this world experience and must do outside of Tokyo
This was an out of this world, highlight of our trip, experience. If you take any tours outside of Tokyo, this has to be it. Our family of 4 went to see the monkeys in the wild and it was unbelievable to see them running around in their habitat, while we took pictures up close and personal. The trip to the location was long as expected, but it was so well worth it and our guides were great.
P
petsagogo
July 3, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
A bit much.
Excellent tour but the pressure for reviews was a bit much. Aggressive driving and looking at phone to check if we had given him 5 stars was a bit much.
Operator response
Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad to know that you enjoyed the tour overall.
We understand your concern regarding the repeated review request. Our drivers ask guests for reviews because your feedback is valuable to us and helps us understand what went well and where we can improve.
Thank you for sharing your valuable input with us, and we’ll certainly take it into consideration. We hope to welcome you again in Japan.
N
Nicole_R
June 23, 2026 · via Viator
Just Perfect.
Attary was a wonderful and accommodative guide. Knowledgeable and read the energy level perfectly. He kept us well fed and on time.
K
Karmen S
June 18, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Nagano snow monkey
Great trip seeing the snow monkeys and visiting the temple. Guide was very cordial and considerate of our time.
R
rosshD7286YN
May 21, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great experience!
Attary was a great guide and provided an excellent experience for us to see a part of Japan we would have otherwise missed! Not only did he get us to and from our destination safely and quickly, he also provided suggestions for pit stops along the way.
1 people found this helpful
R
R2517ASdavidp
May 7, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience
Attary was great. Very professional and a wonderful driver. Provided a substantial amount of local knowledge. Would highly recommend him for other tours
1 people found this helpful
R
Roving56162963632
April 29, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
My guide made a great experience even greater
My tour guide was professional, well informed, friendly, and accommodating. I got much more out of the experience than I would have if I’d gone alone or used some of the marginal tour services I saw advertised. Highly recommended.
2 people found this helpful
L
Lisa B
April 27, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Day trip to snow monkeys
Our guide Attary arrived ahead of time so we were on the road promptly at 6am to beat the Tokyo traffic. Attary was friendly and provided good information on the drive up to Nagano. The snow monkeys were gorgeous playful creatures and well worth the walk up the 1.5km path to see them in the hot springs. He also took us to a famous ramen restaurant that we rated the best we’ve had so far. A quick visit to the Kokusai Museum was very interesting. It was a long day but absolutely worth doing!
1 people found this helpful
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From Tokyo: Private Snow Monkey Day Trip to Nagano