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

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

Dive into the essence of Nagano with a meticulously crafted tour that visits Zenko-ji Temple, immerses you in the artisanal world at Yoshinoya Brewery, and transports you to the serene landscapes of Jigokudani Yaenkoen Snow Monkey Park. As part of this comprehensive itinerary, explore the revered halls of Zenko-ji where ancient Buddhist traditions intertwine with modern worship practices, uncovering centuries-old secrets that have shaped Japan’s spiritual identity. Delve into the intricate brewing process at Yoshinoya Brewery, savoring the nuanced flavors of locally crafted sake and indulging in a seasonal lunch featuring Nagano's finest local delicacies. Conclude your journey amidst the tranquil beauty of Snow Monkey Park, where snow-capped mountains frame natural hot springs filled with playful macaques, inviting you to witness a serene spectacle that captures the heart and soul of Japan’s wildlife. This immersive experience weaves together ancient traditions and modern delights, offering memorable encounters that forge connections while understanding the intricate balance between cultural heritage and contemporary living.

Visit Zenko-ji Temple's Hidden Buddha Statue

Visit Zenko-ji Temple during the tour's highlight segment where you'll uncover one of Japan’s most well-guarded secrets: a concealed Amida Buddha statue, shown only once every six years. Explore this revered Buddhist site with its ancient architecture and intricate designs, symbolizing Japan’s deep spiritual roots. The temple complex, sprawling over 20,000 square meters, houses several structures that have stood for centuries, each telling stories of devotion and transformation through the ages. Marvel at the Kegon-zo Amida Buddha statue, a significant figure in Zenko-ji's history, though its exact location remains a mystery to most visitors. Wander through the temple’s main hall, known as Hon-do, which has been rebuilt several times since its establishment in 718 AD, showcasing remarkable resilience and spiritual significance. This site invites you into an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection, where every step on the stone pathways brings closer connection with Japan's profound spiritual heritage.

Experience Yoshinoya Brewery's Artisanal Brewing Techniques

Experience Yoshinoya Brewery as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring a deep dive into Nagano’s unique brewing culture. The brewery, nestled in the heart of the region, offers visitors an immersive journey through its traditional and contemporary production methods. Sample the rich flavors of sake brewed with local rice varieties, each batch carefully crafted to highlight the nuances of seasonal ingredients. Tour the state-of-the-art facility where skilled craftsmen meticulously oversee every stage of brewing, from fermentation to bottling, ensuring each drop embodies the essence of Nagano’s terroir. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring dishes that perfectly complement the flavors of the sake, such as fresh mountain vegetables and local fish prepared with traditional techniques. This experience at Yoshinoya Brewery showcases the artistry behind Japan’s beloved beverage, creating an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Explore Snow Monkey Park's Scenic Trails

Access Snow Monkey Park included in the tour package enabling you to explore a breathtaking sanctuary where nature and wildlife meet in perfect harmony. This park, situated at the base of Mount Yudanaka, offers stunning views of snow-laden peaks and lush forests, providing an idyllic backdrop for observing one of Japan’s most cherished creatures: the Japanese macaque. Traverse scenic trails that wind through dense woods, leading to natural hot springs where the monkeys relax and socialize in a serene setting. Witness the playful antics and social dynamics of these intelligent primates as they bask in the warmth of steaming waters, creating an enchanting spectacle that captivates visitors from around the world. This immersive experience invites you into the heart of Japan’s winter wonderland, where nature’s beauty and wildlife converge to create unforgettable moments.

Tour Highlights

• Uncover hidden treasures at Zenko-ji Temple
• Sample artisanal sake at Yoshinoya Brewery
• Explore serene Snow Monkey Park trails
• Discover centuries-old spiritual traditions at Zenko-ji
• Enjoy a seasonal lunch with local delicacies included
• Watch playful macaques in natural hot springs

Dive into Nagano’s tapestry of tradition and nature, crafted for explorers of ancient spirituality, devotees of sake craftsmanship, and seekers of wildlife encounters. This immersive journey weaves together the sacred and serene, offering memorable encounters that forge connections while understanding that amidst Japan's cultural richness lies a delicate balance with its natural environment.