Top Things to do in Shimotakai-gun
What to do and see in Shimotakai-gun, Chubu: The Best Tours
Discover the best top things to do in Shimotakai-gun, Japan including See Snow Monkeys on a Private Day Trip from Tokyo by Bullet Train, Matsumoto Private One Day Tour from Nagano with Tour Guide and Private Vehicle, Nagano Full-Day Cycling Tour with Snow Monkey, Obuse Town, Apple Orchards, 13-hour Snow Monkey&Karuizawa Shopping tour with Private Car to/from Tokyo , 2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto, Snow Monkey in "Jigokudani Yaen-koen" & Obuse Town, 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour, Full-Day Private Nagano Tour: Zenkoji Temple, Obuse, Jigokudani Monkey Park, 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in the Shiga Kogen Tour, Nagano Ski Buffet.
Restaurants in Shimotakai-gun
1. See Snow Monkeys on a Private Day Trip from Tokyo by Bullet Train
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Travel to Japan's Nagano Prefecture on this 12-hour private guided trip from Tokyo. Ride the fast Shinkansen (bullet) train, visit the 1,400-year-old Zenkoji Temple, and see snow monkeys soaking in the hot spring at Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Round-trip transportation fare by Shinkansen, Local transportation fee, Hotel pickup
Exclusions: Food and drinks
Reviewed By Glenn B
We cancelled the tour in advance and have NEVER been refunded the payment, my advice to anybody is to avoid at all costs this tour
2. Matsumoto Private One Day Tour from Nagano with Tour Guide and Private Vehicle
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
On this full day private tour, visit the city of Matsumoto with your tour guide. Enjoy the historical Matsumoto Castle, the unique streets of Nawate and Nakamachi and see Daio Wasasbi Farm, the largest wasabi farm in Japan in the tranquil Hotaka Town.
Inclusions: Transportation within Matsumoto City (either public transportation or private chartered vehicle), Trip to Matsumoto Castle, Nawate Street, Daio Wasabi Farm and more, Flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences.
Exclusions: Meals, snacks and drinks, Optional Activities in Matsumoto
Reviewed By 926maggieh
While we were sad to have to cancel our July trip to Japan due to the pandemic, we found the process of working with Japan Awaits to be easy and efficient. I can't speak to the full experience since we weren't able to go, but filling out the form and our communication with the company was no problem. And their prompt and courteous response to our request for a refund speaks to their professionalism. We will definitely come back to ask for their help in procuring tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum when we do finally make it to Japan! Fingers crossed for next summer.
3. Nagano Full-Day Cycling Tour with Snow Monkey, Obuse Town, Apple Orchards
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
On this tour, spend a full-day (about 7 hours) getting in touch with both the nature and city daily life of Nagano while cycling with your English-speaking tour guide and small group.
Inclusions: A local tour guide for small group, A high-quality bicycle for cycling
Exclusions: Round-trip bullet train from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (free for visitors with JR pass). Train tickets available as add-on at checkout., Onsen (hot spring) fee: 700 JPY per person, Meals, snacks and drinks
Reviewed By 926maggieh
While we were sad to have to cancel our July trip to Japan due to the pandemic, we found the process of working with Japan Awaits to be easy and efficient. I can't speak to the full experience since we weren't able to go, but filling out the form and our communication with the company was no problem. And their prompt and courteous response to our request for a refund speaks to their professionalism. We will definitely come back to ask for their help in procuring tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum when we do finally make it to Japan! Fingers crossed for next summer.
4. 13-hour Snow Monkey&Karuizawa Shopping tour with Private Car to/from Tokyo
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
We offer you several selling points other travel companies could never do. Effective : Because the guide and driver is same person. On top of it, he plays Photographer's roll. Comfortable : Because the cars we use are spacious and luxury. Exciting : Because you will savor a local food like they would do. Flexible : Because the schedule is up to you. This is full-private tour for you. Inquisitive : Because you will learn a lots of Japanese History.
Inclusions: Transportation expenses, Guide Fee, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Private transportation
Exclusions: Lunch and beverages. We are glad to find a good restaurant on your request., Admission, and entrance fee are excluded. Please clear it up on the spot.
Reviewed By rnafe
We were picked up at the Yokohama cruise terminal on a private van. The tour guide was very professional and very diligent. We had made a schedule beforehand and the guide made sure we visited every stop. I would greatly recommend this to anyone that's travelling with a group of friends or family looking for a private tour.
5. 2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Situated between the popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, the mountainous of region of Nagano is the literal heart of Japan and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This tour combines some of the region’s most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With English-speaking guide, lunch, and full-service accommodation on Day 1 followed by hotel pick-up and transport to Matsumoto and Takayama, including hotel drop-off, on Day 2, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
Inclusions: Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Transportation from Nagano to all listed destinations, ending at Takayama, Snow Monkey Park entrance fee, Sake tasting, Accommodation at Hotel Kokusai 21 on Day 1 (inc. breakfast on Day 2), Matsumoto Castle entrance fee on Day 2, English-speaking guide & transport on Day 1, Driver & transport on Day 2
Exclusions: Dinner on Day 1 & Day 2, Accommodation in Takayama, Shinkansen/bullet train tickets, English-speaking guide on Day 2
Reviewed By LyceTherece
AMAZING Valentine's Day! Our guide (Peter, I believe) was absolutely fantastic, offering information, fun facts and history at every turn. He went above and beyond to make our experience wonderful, and it was, despite abnormally warm weather keeping the monkeys away from the onsen, and COVID precautions causing an early end to the lantern festival. Our guide was super knowledgeable and helpful, and went above and beyond to provide a memorable tour for us all. He was the epitome of the hospitality and kindness that I love so much about Japan!
6. Snow Monkey in "Jigokudani Yaen-koen" & Obuse Town
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
You will go around famous sightseeing spots in Hokushin (Northern Nagano) area. First, you will see the Jigokudani Wild Snow Monkey Park worldly known for its snow monkeys. Then you will go to Obuse Town, which is reputed for its town renewal project vitalizing the historical heritages such as Hokusai Katsushika.
Inclusions: Private transportation
Exclusions:
7. 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Combining a visit to Nagano’s world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and evening exploration of the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival, this enjoyable 1-day tour marks the midpoint of winter and illuminates Nagano’s ancient heart! Including dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, this tour brings warmth and light into the midst of winter. This tour begins at Nagano Station, from where you will be transported to the Jigokudani Monkey Park before returning to Nagano City for an early dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, before being guided around the Zenko-ji Temple precinct in the beauty and tranquility of its annual Tomyo Lantern Festival. All led by a locally-based, English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Nagano in winter.
Inclusions: Entry tickets to the Snow Monkey Park, Dinner, Air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide
Exclusions: Shinkansen/bullet train tickets, Accommodation, Additional food, snacks & drinks
Reviewed By brandtgreg
We went on this tour last weekend and had a great time. Peter was our guide and he was extremely well organized and knowledgeable. We enjoyed spending the day with him as he shared facts about the temple and the monkeys at the park. We met at Nagano Station and proceeded to walk to the temple. It was a nice walk and we had beautiful weather. The temple was amazing and we spent a good amount of time there. After we left we did a brief sake and miso soup tasting. Everything was very good and we made a purchase. After that we proceeded to the train station to head to monkey park. The train ride was approximately 40 minutes and a driver was at the station to bring us the rest of the way to the park. The park was beautiful and there were monkeys everywhere. We had plenty of time there and then we stopped at the cafe for a drink and snack before boarding the train back to Nagano Station. It was really a great day! I would highly recommend this tour company and Peter.
8. Full-Day Private Nagano Tour: Zenkoji Temple, Obuse, Jigokudani Monkey Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
On this tour, spend a full-day in Nagano exploring the city and enjoying what this quaint town has to offer. Your English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or Nagano Train Station at 8:45 AM. You will either take public transportation (train and bus) or private chartered vehicle around town based on your booking. Immerse yourself in the city's culture and visit major Nagano attractions such as Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, the famous Zenkoji Temple, Chikuma River, Obuse Town, and relax in a traditional onsen/ hot spring (optional).
Inclusions: Private tour with English-speaking (or other available language) tour guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels within Central Nagano only), Transportation within Nagano City , Fuel surcharge
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Onsen (hot spring) fee: 700 JPY per person, Other optional activities for guests .
Reviewed By 926maggieh
While we were sad to have to cancel our July trip to Japan due to the pandemic, we found the process of working with Japan Awaits to be easy and efficient. I can't speak to the full experience since we weren't able to go, but filling out the form and our communication with the company was no problem. And their prompt and courteous response to our request for a refund speaks to their professionalism. We will definitely come back to ask for their help in procuring tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum when we do finally make it to Japan! Fingers crossed for next summer.
9. 1-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in the Shiga Kogen Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
This adventurous one-day tour combines a visit to the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani with morning of fun in the deep powder snow of Shiga Kogen – Japan’s largest ski resort! Including lunch and led by a locally-based, English-speaking guide, this tour follows a simple equation: snow monkeys + lots more snow = big fun in Shiga Kogen!
Inclusions: Transportation from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park and to Shiga-kogen Highlands Ski Resorts and back to Nagano Station., Lunch (vegetarian options are available), English-speaking guide, Snow activity fees in Shiga-kogen Highlands, Entrance fee to the Snow Monkey Park
Exclusions: Shinkansen/bullet train tickets, Rental boots (if required), Rental clothing including snow jackets & pants (if required), Additional snacks, food & drinks at Shiga Kogen
Reviewed By LyceTherece
AMAZING Valentine's Day! Our guide (Peter, I believe) was absolutely fantastic, offering information, fun facts and history at every turn. He went above and beyond to make our experience wonderful, and it was, despite abnormally warm weather keeping the monkeys away from the onsen, and COVID precautions causing an early end to the lantern festival. Our guide was super knowledgeable and helpful, and went above and beyond to provide a memorable tour for us all. He was the epitome of the hospitality and kindness that I love so much about Japan!
10. Nagano Ski Buffet
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 10 reviews
Experience the best of Japan - the thrill of deep powder, the beauty of an unique culture, and the fun of a great guided tour. Enjoy some of the most amazing snow on planet earth, stay in a truly authentic Japanese ski village where you are the minority, visit mom and pop restaurants and mix with the locals, be entertained by Geisha, Taiko Drum, Shimansen Guitar, Lion Dance and Karate performances, visit the world famous Snow Monkeys, walk through ancient castles, temples and shrines and relax in natural hot pools. Where other companies may talk up the cultural aspects of Japan we include them in our tours so you get a truly authentic Japanese ski experience. And best of all you get to share this all with a group of like minded ski and snowboard enthusiasts, all hosted by instructor/guides who are just plain passionate about what they do for you as our testimonials attest to. And don’t forget our hidden gems that we leave as a surprise for you on your journey with us at JPC Tours.
Inclusions: Private transportation, Breakfast, Lift Passes, Guiding and Instruction, Cultural Performances, Karaoke night
Exclusions: Air Travel, Travel Insurance, Equipment hire, Dinner, lunches and drinks
Reviewed By David C
Really hard to review the time 7 days skiing I had with Japan Powder Culture Tours, because there was just so much action. I joined Jase for the Powder Chaser Tour in mid-February, and whilst the season was a poor one by Japanese standards, Jase, John and George new where the goods were, consistently finding stashes 1-2 days after a dump. Out of the 7 days there was only really 1 day of poor skiing due to the conditions, and this was well beyond JPCT’s control. Additionally, due to the nature of the season, we didn’t have the luxury of visiting the other resorts around the area, however again beyond JPCT’s control. Jase has a unique product, offering a number of different options. His flexibility to provide a start and end date that suited my travels was one of the main attractions when booking. Whilst I joined the Powder Chaser Tour with more of the advanced skiers, I witnessed Jase and his crew taking out beginners in small groups and they showed amazing improvement with such focussed tuition. I refer to the product as unique, as we were constantly finding lift accessed side country and secret stashes which I would never have found by myself, or game enough to ski without a guide who truly knew the terrain. By doing so, we were able to ski snow that was truly hidden. This type of skiing was opt-in by the more adventurous and whilst a mix of skiers and boarders, it was fairly even from an ability perspective. The town of Yudakana had a plethora of restaurants and whilst not ski in/ski out, I’m glad I chose the option of such a lovely town, with dining options galore and comfortable bus ride. I stayed in the Ryokan and encourage anyone thinking of booking to do the same. The traditional Japanese accommodation has its quirks, however the onsen, breakfasts and dinners were truly amazing. Summarising my time with Jase and his crew, whilst the skiing and accommodation were both great, my lasting memory was a lot of fun. Whilst it likely won’t be next year, I’m a big chance to return in the future. Only negative is having to put up with such a rubbish accent.
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