Snow Monkey Park and Miso Production Tour Bullet Train From Tokyo

Experiencing Japan’s iconic snow monkeys and traditional miso production in a single day is a captivating prospect. Leaving Tokyo by bullet train, visitors can journey to Nagano Prefecture and witness the remarkable Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques bathe in natural hot springs to combat the winter chill. This tour also explores the age-old fermentation process behind miso, a beloved Japanese seasoning, providing an immersive cultural encounter. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the charming town of Obuse, steeped in artistic heritage, awaits exploration.

Good To Know

• Full-day tour from Tokyo to Nagano, featuring an encounter with Japanese macaques at Jigokudani Monkey Park and a miso production tour with tasting in Suzaka.
• Round-trip Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo included, with departure from JR Tokyo Station and tour ending at the same station around 8:00 pm.
• Moderate physical fitness required for a 50-minute uphill walk to the monkey park, and warm clothing and non-slip footwear are necessary, especially in winter.
• Best sighting times for snow monkeys are from December to March, with high activity noted during this period and a strict prohibition on feeding or touching the monkeys.
• Free time in the historic town of Obuse, known for its association with the artist Hokusai, and the opportunity to explore local shops and sample famous chestnuts.

Tour Overview

The tour offers visitors a full-day excursion from Tokyo to Nagano Prefecture, culminating in an up-close encounter with the renowned Japanese macaques, or "snow monkeys," at the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

The journey begins with a miso production tour and tasting in Suzaka, followed by free time in the charming town of Obuse, associated with the artist Hokusai.

The main attraction is the opportunity to observe the snow monkeys bathing in the natural hot springs of the monkey park.

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour is led by an English-speaking licensed guide.

Travel Details

Round-trip Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets from Tokyo are included in the tour package.

Travelers meet at the JR Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, in Chiyoda City, Tokyo at 7:20 am for departure. The tour ends around 8:00 pm at the same station.

Ticket pickup is required at Tokyo City i, 3 days before the tour until the day prior. This ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventures and hassle-free transportation to and from the snow monkey park.

Participants should plan accordingly and arrive on time to make the most of this immersive cultural experience.

Physical Requirements and Safety

Moderate physical fitness is required for this tour, as participants must complete a 50-minute uphill walk to reach the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Participants should wear warm clothing and non-slip footwear, especially in winter.

Safety is paramount:

• Monkeys are wild animals, and their behavior is unpredictable. Feeding or touching the monkeys is strictly prohibited.
• The tour may be affected by weather, monkey behavior, or other factors. No refunds are provided for cancellations due to these reasons.
• Participants should exercise caution and follow the guide’s instructions throughout the tour.

Sightings of Snow Monkeys

When are the best times to spot the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park? The sightings of these unique Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs are typically best from December to March. This is when the monkeys seek the warmth of the pools to escape the winter chill.

The monkeys are wild animals, so their behavior can be unpredictable. While seeing them in the steaming pools is a highlight, feeding or touching them is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

Miso Production Tour

As part of the full-day tour, visitors first stop at a traditional miso production facility in Suzaka. They learn about the ancient art of miso-making, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

The tour includes:

• Observing the fermentation process in wooden vats
• Sampling different miso varieties, from light and sweet to dark and savory
• Discovering the health benefits of this probiotic-rich condiment
• Learning about the regional traditions and family recipes passed down for generations
• Purchasing specialty miso products to bring home as souvenirs

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into Japan’s rich food culture and culinary heritage.

Exploring Obuse

After visiting the miso production facility, the tour then explores the historic town of Obuse, known for its association with the renowned artist Hokusai.

Visitors are given free time to wander the charming streets, browse local shops, and sample Obuse’s famous chestnuts.

The town’s picturesque architecture and Hokusai-themed sites, like the Hokusai Museum, provide a glimpse into Japan’s artistic heritage.

This stop offers a delightful contrast to the natural wonders of the snow monkeys, allowing travelers to enjoy both the rural and urban landscapes of Nagano Prefecture.

Monkey Park Experience

The tour culminates at the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors witness the remarkable sight of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, bathing in the steaming natural hot springs.

The park offers an up-close look at these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.

Visitors should keep in mind:

• Monkeys are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable.
• Feeding or touching the monkeys is strictly prohibited.
• Warm clothing and proper footwear are essential, especially in winter.
• The 50-minute uphill walk to the park requires a moderate level of fitness.
• Weather and other factors may affect the tour, with no refunds for cancellations.

Feedback and Improvements

The tour was revamped in 2025 to include a visit to the charming town of Obuse, known for its association with the renowned artist Hokusai, and a miso production tour, replacing the previous stop at Zenkoji Temple.

While the snow monkey park experience received positive feedback, reviews on the lunch quality and guide performance were mixed, with some finding the guided experience lacking.

Despite these minor issues, the tour remains a popular choice for nature enthusiasts and families, offering a unique opportunity to observe the captivating behavior of the wild Japanese macaques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food to the Monkey Park?

Visitors are generally discouraged from bringing their own food to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park asks that people refrain from feeding the wild monkeys to avoid disrupting their natural behavior and feeding patterns.

Is Photography Allowed During the Miso Production Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the miso production tour, though visitors should respect any restrictions or instructions from the tour guide or miso production facility staff. It’s best to be mindful and avoid disrupting the process.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Clothing I Can Wear?

The tour indicates participants should wear warm clothing and non-slip footwear, especially in winter, to ensure their comfort and safety during the 50-minute uphill walk to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. No other specific clothing restrictions are mentioned.

How Long Does the Bullet Train Journey From Tokyo Take?

The bullet train journey from Tokyo takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The tour includes round-trip Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets, with the meeting point at Tokyo Station for a 7:20 am departure.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement, but it’s not recommended for young children. Participants should be in moderate physical condition to handle the 50-minute uphill walk to the monkey park.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Tokyo to Nagano offers a unique opportunity to observe the captivating Japanese macaques in their natural habitat at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Complementing the snow monkey experience, the miso production tour provides insight into traditional fermentation processes, followed by exploration of the charming town of Obuse. Accessible by comfortable bullet train, this immersive excursion showcases the diverse natural and cultural wonders of the Nagano region.