Discover Nagano: Zenko-ji, Sake Brewery & Snow Monkey Park Guided Tour

The roof of Japan

Originally developed in the 7th century as a temple town, Nagano is known for its history and is surrounded by stunning mountains. You'll get to experience the best of what Nagano has to offer on this day tour. Meet your expert English-speaking guide at Nagano Station and begin your journey to Zenko-ji Temple, a sacred site dating back to 642 AD. As you walk through the imposing Sanmon Gate, you’ll encounter the serene temple gardens and intricate architecture that have stood the test of time. Don’t miss the Nade-botoke statue, where a gentle touch is said to grant blessings or learn about the elusive Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai, a hidden statue believed to embody spiritual enlightenment. With your spirit awakened, your guide will lead you to Yoshinoya Sake Brewery for a fun-filled sake tasting experience. Here, you’ll learn about this unique beverage and sample a variety of sakes, from the light and floral Junmai Daiginjo to the more robust Junmai Ginjo, all stored in unique, cool spots to enhance their flavors.

Monkeying around in the hot springs

Following a satisfying lunch featuring Nagano specialties like oyaki dumplings and fresh soba noodles, your guide will take you to the renowned Snow Monkey Park. Trek through the beautiful forest trails and reach the hot springs where you’ll be greeted by the sight of playful macaques blissfully soaking in the warm waters. As these monkeys relax in their natural hot tub, you'll be filled with an immense feeling of warmth and satisfaction, knowing that your time in Nagano was well spent.

Itinerary

• 7:40am: Hakuba shuttle (winter only) first pickup at Hakuba Tokyu Hotel before the second pickup at the Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal at 07:55am. From there, the bus heads toward Nagano City

• 9:35am: Meet your guide at Nagano Station and begin the tour by heading to the temple (additional pickup point is available at Patio Daimon in Nagano City at 09:55am)

• 10:00am: Arrive at Zenko-ji and explore the precinct with your guide followed by (time-permitting) 25-30 minutes of free time

• 11:30am: Taste various sakes at Yoshinoya Sake Brewery (near the temple) and learn more about the iconic Japanese beverage

• 12:00pm: Enjoy a delicious lunch designed to highlight the best of Nagano

• 1:00pm: Depart Nagano and head toward the Snow Monkey Park

• 2:00pm: Arrive near the Snow Monkey Park area. Prepare and walk along the forest trail (25-30 minutes) into the park

• 2:40pm: Arrive at the park and enjoy watching the wild macaques bathing in the onsen

• 3:40pm: Depart the park and walk back out along the forest trail.

• 4:20pm: Leave the Snow Monkey Park area and begin your return journey to Nagano

• 5:35pm: Tour concludes at Nagano Station, where the guide will bid you farewell