Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine Private Day Trip

Summary

Snow monkeys bathing, ancient shrines, and quiet forest trails near Nagano

You’ll hike snowy forest trails to watch wild monkeys soaking in hot springs at Jigokudani, then wander beneath towering cedars at Togakushi Shrine with your local guide. Enjoy a relaxed lunch of mountain soba noodles and have your best moments captured in photos—all without worrying about crowds or tricky transport connections.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect the first thing I’d hear on this day trip from Nagano to be the crunch of my own boots on ice, way before I even saw a single snow monkey. Our guide, Yuki, handed me a little hand-warmer (those things are magic) as we started the forest walk up to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. It’s about 30 minutes through these tall trees that look like they’ve seen centuries go by. The air smelled sharp and cold—kind of like wet stone mixed with cedar needles. We joked about who would spot the first monkey, but it was actually their little squeals echoing off the rocks that gave them away before we saw them. They’re smaller than I thought, and yeah, they really do just sit there in the hot springs looking like tiny old men at a spa.

I tried taking a photo but my fingers were clumsy from the cold—luckily Yuki had his camera out and said he’d send us all the good shots later (which he did). Watching those macaques soak, totally unbothered by our gawking, is weirdly soothing. There’s steam rising off their fur and every now and then one will squabble over a spot or dunk its head under like it’s showing off. We lingered longer than planned; it’s hard to leave when you’re watching something so oddly peaceful. The hike back felt shorter—maybe because we were all laughing about how one monkey reminded us of someone’s uncle.

After that, we warmed up in the car (heated seats: yes please) and headed to Togakushi Shrine. The drive isn’t far—maybe 40 minutes?—but it feels like another world when you step out. There’s this avenue lined with ancient cedars so tall you have to crane your neck just to see sky between them. I tried saying “Togakushi” properly; Yuki grinned but didn’t correct me (I probably butchered it). Walking up toward the Upper Shrine is quiet except for wind in the branches and the sound of our shoes on packed earth. I touched one of those old trees—it felt rough and cold—and tried to imagine all the people who’d walked here before us.

Lunch was soba noodles at a tiny spot nearby where everyone seemed to know Yuki. He explained how this area is famous for soba because of the mountain water—honestly, I never thought noodles could taste so earthy or fresh. By then I’d stopped checking my phone for time; it was just one of those days that stretches out in memory, you know? Even now, weeks later, I still think about that hush among the trees at Togakushi more than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit snow monkeys and Togakushi Shrine

• Hike 30-40 minutes to snow monkey park
• Observe snow monkeys in hot springs
• Walk 30-40 minutes along cedar path
• Explore Togakushi Upper Shrine area

Top questions

How long does it take to walk to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park?

The walk takes about 30–40 minutes through a scenic forest trail.

Are entry fees included for Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park?

No, entry fees are not included: adults pay 800 yen, children 400 yen; kids under 6 are free.

Is lunch included on this private day trip?

Lunch is not specifically mentioned as included; dining options are flexible with your guide.

How do you get between Jigokudani and Togakushi Shrine?

You travel by private car with your English-speaking guide between locations.

What makes this tour different from public transport options?

You avoid multiple transfers and limited dining by traveling privately at your own pace.

Is there much walking involved at Togakushi Shrine?

Yes—a 30–40 minute walk along an ancient cedar-lined path leads to the Upper Shrine.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted according to tour details.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with fuel and parking covered, plus an English-speaking local guide who adapts plans as you go. You’ll get picked up locally and enjoy flexible stops along the way—with candid photos taken throughout so you can actually put your phone down for once.