Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip in Nagano – Explore the Japanese Alps

Japan is known for its beauty and its temples, shrines, and buildings that are loved by many tourists who come to experience its culture and history. One of the most popular places in Japan is Nagano Prefecture, which is often referred to as “the Japanese Alps” due to its mountainous geography. As such, this makes Nagano a great place for anyone looking to experience some of Japan’s most famous attractions. When visiting Nagano, travelers can expect to experience a variety of sights and activities, from visiting shrines and temples, to seeing snow monkeys at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Other attractions include sake tastings, and traditional hot springs.

In this guide, we’ll be discussing a wonderful day trip from Nagano that you can take, which includes some of the prefecture’s most popular sites. Specifically, the day trip includes visits to the world-renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park and Zenkoji Temple, followed by sake tastings at local breweries. You’ll have a chance to take photos with wild snow monkeys and learn about the history of Zenkoji Temple, all while sipping on some of the best sake Japan has to offer. For anyone looking to explore the Japanese Alps and find out what makes Nagano so special, this is the perfect day trip.

What You’ll Experience During the Tour

This tour lasts around 8 hours and takes visitors to three different locations in Nagano. In the morning, you’ll visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you’ll be able to watch the famous wild snow monkeys as they soak in hot springs and roam around the natural environment. It’s an incredible sight, and one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Afterwards, you’ll visit Zenkoji Temple. Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest and most revered sites, and it has gained fame thanks to its numerous festivals and ceremonies that are held there each year. The temple’s history dates back to the 6th century when it was founded by a traveling monk. During your time at Zenkoji Temple, you’ll have the chance to take photos and learn about the history of the structure.

Your trip also includes two sake tastings at local breweries. Sake is Japan’s national drink and it has been enjoyed by people all around the world for centuries. During your tastings, you’ll learn about sake history and how it is produced, as well as sample a variety of different types.

Finally, there is also a guided tour option available with this trip, so if you are looking for something a bit more in-depth, the guide will be able to provide more information about each of the locations you visit.

What You Need to Know Before Booking

Before booking this tour, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, you should make sure that you are wearing appropriate clothing for a cold winter day. Since you will be spending some time outdoors in Jigokudani Monkey Park, you will want to make sure that you are wearing warm clothes and proper shoes that can handle slippery surfaces. It is also a good idea to bring a camera with you on the tour as there will be plenty of photo opportunities available.

Additionally, you should also make sure that you book your tour at least one week in advance, as tours can fill up quickly during peak times such as weekends or holidays. It is also important to note that while there are two sake tasting sessions included in the tour, transportation is not provided. It is up to you to arrange transportation to each of the locations you visit during your trip.

Why You Should Take This Tour

Visiting Nagano is a great way to experience some of Japan’s most beautiful destinations as well as its incredible culture and history. This tour gives you an opportunity to see some of Japan’s most famous landmarks while also drinking some of its best sake.

With this tour, you will be able to get up close and personal with wild snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park and take photos at Zenkoji Temple, all while learning about sake production during two tasting sessions at local breweries. It is a great way to make the most out of your time in Nagano Prefecture and experience something truly unique.

If you are looking for an unforgettable experience while visiting Nagano Prefecture, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity and book your Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Day Trip today!