Enjoy a premium small-group tour (typically 6-8 guests, maximum 12), blending nature, culture, and culinary delights. Start your day at Nagano Station and visit the iconic Snow Monkey Park, where you’ll walk through serene forests to see wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs.

Next, explore the charming town of Obuse, enjoying a delicious local lunch and a sake-tasting session at a historic brewery, sampling two premium sakes. Discover the Hokusai Museum, showcasing masterpieces by Japan’s ukiyo-e legend, and stroll through picturesque streets lined with traditional shops.

For those seeking more, an optional visit to the historic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most revered Buddhist sites—is available. Walk in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims and experience its serene atmosphere.

With stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and insights from a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a carefully curated day immersed in Nagano’s nature, art, history, and flavors.

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

If traveling from Tokyo station, take the 6:52 AM or 7:20 AM Shinkansen to arrive on time.

There is a possibility that the monkeys may not appear as they are wild animals. While sightings are generally reliable during much of the year, there are times — particularly in certain seasons — when they may not come to the park due to weather, food availability, or other natural factors. Please understand that we do not offer refunds if no monkeys are present during your visit. Our team will still provide a comfortable vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, and a well-structured itinerary to make your visit meaningful. Even without the monkeys, the walk to the park offers beautiful forest scenery and a memorable nature experience — each season has its own charm.

Please do not eat or drink coffee inside the vehicle to keep it clean for everyone. Bottled water and small pets in carriers are okay.

This tour is not suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues due to the walking required, particularly the 1.6-kilometer trail to the Snow Monkey Park. It is also not recommended for those who prefer minimal physical activity or are uncomfortable with extended outdoor exposure in varying weather conditions. Please note that wheelchairs and strollers are not accessible, and child seats are not prepared for this tour.

Please note that due to potential traffic jams, there may be slight delays, making the tour last more extra hours. Guests are advised not to schedule train departures immediately after the tour and to allow sufficient time for boarding.

During winter, please be prepared for below-freezing temperatures and icy, slippery conditions at Snow Monkey Park by wearing non-slip footwear or bringing cleats for added safety.

Flexible Ending: After exploring Obuse, choose to return to Nagano Station or continue your adventure at the Zenkoji Temple area – one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples.

Strollers are not accessible

o8Experience is a locally based tour company offering private and small-group experiences across Nagano and surrounding regions. From food and culture to nature and history, we create meaningful journeys tailored to curious travelers. Visit o8Experience to discover more.