The Nagano Dentetsu company, most commonly referred to simply as Nagaden, operates the majority of train and bus services in and round Nagano City. Making use of their extensive services, travelers can access many of the region’s most popular destinations including the Jigokudani Monkey Park, Suzaka, Obuse, Joshinetsu Kogen National Park including Shiga Kogen Ski Resort along with Nozawa Onsen, Madarao and more. On this page you will find the following information:
While Nagaden operates an array of local routes, this page focuses specifically on Express Bus services designed for speed and convenience. Below, you will find essential details regarding express transport to the Snow Monkey Park and the high-altitude resorts of Shiga Kogen. For information regarding local bus services, please refer to our ‘Nagano Dentetsu Local Bus’ page.
Types of Express Bus Services
Nagaden operates a fleet of high-capacity, 44-seat coaches designed for long-distance comfort and efficiency. These buses are ideal for travelers with heavy gear, featuring spacious under-bus storage for large suitcases, skis, and snowboards.
Primary Express Routes include:
- Nagano to Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen (Year-round).
- Nagano to Nozawa Onsen (Winter only).
- Iiyama to Madarao & Tangram (Year-round).
- Iiyama to Togari Onsen Ski Resort (Winter only).
NAGADEN SNOW MONKEY / SHIGA KOGEN EXPRESS BUS
Operating year-round with increased frequency during the winter peak, this express service provides a direct link between Nagano Station, the Jigokudani Monkey Park, and Shiga Kogen Ski Resort.
- Departure Point: Nagano Station, East Exit — Bus Stop No. 23.
- Key Destinations: All buses stop at the Snow Monkey Park, with most (but not all) continuing to the various ski areas of Shiga Kogen.
- Convenience: This is the fastest way to reach the park and highlands without needing to transfer at Yudanaka Station.
How to Find Bus Stop No. 23
Reaching the departure point from the Nagano Station gates takes approximately 5 minutes:
- Head to the East Exit: From the Shinkansen or JR gates, follow the signs for the "East Exit."
- Descend to Ground Level: Use the elevator/stairs on your left or the escalator on your right to reach the street level.
- Walk 150 Meters: Once at the bottom, walk straight ahead. Bus Stop No. 23 is located approximately 150 meters directly in front of you.
Important Note for Shiga Kogen Visitors: While the same bus serves both destinations, some services terminate at the Snow Monkey Park and do not continue to Shiga Kogen. To avoid confusion, we have provided separate, dedicated timetables below for each destination.
Fares & Timetables
The Nagaden Express Bus operates year-round from Nagano Station East Exit. Please note that fares and schedules vary depending on your final destination and the time of year.
Current One-Way Fares
- To the Snow Monkey Park: ¥3,000 (Adult) / ¥1,500 (Child).
- To Shiga Kogen Ski Resort: ¥3,200 to ¥3,800 (Adult) / ¥1,600 to ¥1,900 (Child), depending on your specific stop within the resort area.
Seasonal Timetables
While the service runs daily, Nagaden frequently updates the frequency of buses to meet seasonal demand:
- Winter Season: Additional services are added to accommodate skiers and winter travelers. The official winter schedule is typically released shortly before the season begins in December.
- Green Season: A standard schedule applies for spring, summer, and autumn visitors.
Check the Latest Schedules
For the most up-to-date departure and arrival times, please visit our dedicated timetable pages:
Ticketing and Travel Passes
For passengers using the Nagaden Express Bus, there is no advanced booking required. You have two main ways to pay for your journey:
1. Pay-As-You-Go (Direct on Bus)
Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver when boarding. For a smoother experience, the following modern payment methods are now accepted:
- Touch-to-Pay: Credit cards equipped with tap-to-pay technology.
- Electronic Payments: Popular QR and mobile methods, including PayPay.
- Cash: Standard Japanese Yen is also accepted.
- Where to Board: Bus Stop 23 outside the Eastern Exit of Nagano Station.
2. Using the Snow Monkey Pass
The Snow Monkey Pass (Express Bus Version)
Starting in the 2025/26 Winter Season, there are now two distinct versions of the Snow Monkey Pass. This pass is specifically designed for the Express Bus and is the most convenient option for a seamless day trip from Nagano Station. This version is NOT available online in advance, and must be purchased on-site inside of Nagano Station.
- Cost: JPY 6,800 (Adults 13+) / JPY 3,400 (Children 6-12).
- Where to Buy: Available only in person via the "Aruyo" ticket machine (pictured above) at the Nagaden Bus Ticket Center (1st Floor, Nagano Station East Exit).
- What’s Included:
- Park Admission: One-time entry to the Snow Monkey Park.
- Round-Trip Transport: One round-trip journey on the Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus (Nagano Station - Snow Monkey Park).
- Validity: Valid for 1 day from the date of purchase.
- Where to Board: Bus Stop 23 outside the Eastern Exit of Nagano Station.
Important Restrictions
- Shiga Kogen: Please note that neither Snow Monkey Pass covers bus services to or from Shiga Kogen. If you are heading to the ski resorts, you must pay the standard fare directly to the driver.
- Free Travel: Children under the age of 6 ride Nagaden buses and enter the monkey park free of charge.
For a full breakdown of costs and redemption instructions, please refer to our dedicated Snow Monkey Pass information page.
25 Things to Do Around the Monkey Park & Where to Stay
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Often referred to as the Snow Monkey Park, you’d be forgiven for thinking the park is only open and the monkeys only venture there in winter. While it’s true they are most famous for their winter antics, the monkeys come to the park all year round and there are just as many reasons to visit in spring, summer and autumn. Located in the beautiful rural enclave of Yamanouchi and within easy reach of Nagano City, visiting the park can be easily combined with plenty of nearby destinations and activities, as a day-trip or multi-day visit. Our ’25 Things To Do Around The Jigokudani Monkey Park & Where To Stay’ page has lots of tips and suggestions of what’s on offer and the best area to stay when visiting the monkeys.
Shiga Kogen Ski Resort: Everything You Need to Know
Located approximately 45km east of Nagano City, Shiga Kogen is Japan’s largest and highest ski resort. Boasting an unmatched expanse of interconnected terrain and the longest ski season in Nagano, it is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Why Choose Shiga Kogen?
- Superior Snow Quality: With ski fields ranging from 1,340 to 2,307 meters, Shiga Kogen is notably higher than any other resort in the region, ensuring excellent powder conditions.
- Interconnected Terrain: All 18 ski areas are covered by a single All-Mountain Pass, making it the ideal choice for multi-day visits.
- Perfect for All Levels: The vast terrain is ideally suited for beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders looking for wide, groomed runs.
Plan Your Shiga Kogen Winter Getaway
As Nagano’s No. 1 tour and charter operator, Snow Monkey Resorts is a registered travel agent capable of organizing every aspect of your trip.
We offer comprehensive Shiga Kogen packages including:
- Accommodation: Hand-picked hotels and traditional ryokans.
- Transport: Private charters and express bus transfers.
- Mountain Essentials: Ski passes, premium gear rental, and English-language lessons.
- Guided Experiences: Specialized tours to the nearby Snow Monkey Park and beyond.
Ready to start planning? Click the banner above or visit our Japan Ski Resorts main page to explore our latest winter deals.
Tours and Charters to the Monkey Park
As Nagano's No.1 tour operator, we are proud to offer multiple tours that combine a visit to the Snow Monkey Park with other fun local activities. No matter the season, we can help you make the most of your time in Nagano. Whether with your family or friends, or on your own, we are sure to have something that suits your needs!
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Our most popular offering is our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple and Sake in Nagano". Guests on this delightful excursion will first be treated to Sake Tasting and a guided tour of the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano, including lunch at a nearby restaurant.
With the first half of the tour complete, you will then depart for the Monkey Park on our private tour vehicle. Once you have arrived your guide will lead the way up to the place the Monkeys call home, before you once again board the bus and return to your starting destination.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
For those guests coming in the winter, we also offer the "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen", combining exciting snow activities such as sledding and riding snow scoots with a visit to the Monkey Park. Lunch is also included, making for the perfect day trip for anyone looking to experience what winter in Nagano is all about!
Popular
(Spring Only) 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Another unforgettable tour is our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano". Including two of Japan's most amazing natural spectacles, the blooming of the Cherry Blossoms and the hot-spring loving monkeys of Jigokudani, this offering is the easiest way to enjoy a relaxed spring day in Nagano.
Popular
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
For those who want a more customized experience, we also offer private tours of the Snow Monkey Park and nearby attractions such as Zenkoji Temple. For more information, please click the link above or send us an inquiry describing your ideal itinerary.
Charter a Vehicle to the Snow Monkey Park!
Please see our charter page and send us your trip details so we can start planning your journey to the Snow Monkey Park. Many starting point options are available such as Nagano Station, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and more.
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Bus Stop No. 23 is located at the East Exit of Nagano Station. After exiting the ticket gates, follow signs for the East Exit, descend the escalator or elevator to the ground level, and walk straight ahead for approximately 150 meters. You will see the large Snow Monkey coaches parked there.
Currently, standard IC cards like Suica or Pasmo are not accepted. However, you can pay the driver directly using Credit Card Tap-to-Pay, PayPay, or cash. If you have a Snow Monkey Pass, simply show it to the driver when boarding and exiting.
No, the Nagaden Express Bus operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You cannot reserve seats in advance. During the busy winter peak, we recommend arriving at Bus Stop No. 23 at least 15–20 minutes before departure to ensure you get a seat on your preferred bus.
No. While all Express Buses on this line stop at the Snow Monkey Park, some services terminate there. If you are heading to Shiga Kogen, check the destination display on the front of the bus or refer to our dedicated Shiga Kogen Timetable to ensure your bus continues up the mountain.
Yes. These are large highway-style coaches equipped with spacious under-bus luggage compartments. Drivers will help you load your suitcases, skis, or snowboards at no extra charge, making this the most convenient way to travel with heavy winter gear.
No. The Snow Monkey Pass only covers the journey as far as the Snow Monkey Park (Kanbayashi Onsen). If you are traveling further to Shiga Kogen, you must pay the additional fare directly to the driver using cash or a touch-payment credit card.