On this page you will find detailed information on buses operated by Nagano Dentetsu, most commonly referred to simply as Nagaden, which operates the majority of train and bus services in and around 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.
Key Takeaways: Nagaden Express Bus Services
- Separate Dedicated Routes: The express buses for the Snow Monkey Park (Stop 24) and Shiga Kogen (Stop 23) no longer share a single line. They now operate on completely separate, dedicated routes departing from the Nagano Station East Exit.
- Mandatory Advance Tickets: Pay-as-you-go boarding (paying the driver directly) is no longer permitted. Independent travelers must book their tickets and entry timeslots in advance online via the Webket system.
- Winter Luggage Storage: The large express coaches feature spacious under-bus storage compartments, making it easy and convenient to travel with heavy winter gear, skis, and large suitcases.
- The Snow Monkey Pass: For the 2026/2027 winter season, a special Express Bus version of the pass is available, covering round-trip transport to the park and your admission ticket. Note that this pass does not cover travel to Shiga Kogen.
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1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
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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 (Year-round).
- Nagano to Shiga Kogen (Year-round).
- Nagano to Nozawa Onsen (Winter only).
- Iiyama to Madarao & Tangram (Year-round).
- Iiyama to Togari Onsen Ski Resort (Winter only).
Important Route Change: The Snow Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen are now serviced by completely separate, dedicated bus routes. They no longer share a single bus line.
Nagaden Express Bus Routes: Snow Monkey Park & Shiga Kogen
Operating year-round with increased frequency during the winter peak, these express services provide a direct link from Nagano Station to the Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen Ski Resort.
Important Route Change: The Snow Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen are now serviced by completely separate, dedicated bus routes. They no longer share a single bus line.
Shiga Kogen Express Bus
- Departure Point: Nagano Station, East Exit — Bus Stop No. 23.
- Destination: Operates exclusively to the various ski areas of Shiga Kogen.
- Note: This bus does not stop at the Snow Monkey Park.
Snow Monkey Park Express Bus
- Departure Point: Nagano Station, East Exit — Bus Stop No. 24.
- Destination: Operates exclusively to the Snow Monkey Park.
- Note: This bus does not continue into Shiga Kogen.
How to Find Bus Stops No. 23 & 24
Reaching the departure points from the Nagano Station gates takes approximately 5 minutes:
Walk 150 Meters: Once at the bottom, walk straight ahead. Bus Stops No. 23 and 24 are located adjacent to each other, approximately 150 meters directly in front of you. Ensure you line up at the correct stop for your destination.
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.
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. Up to ¥4,200 to get to Kusatsu Onsen in green season.
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
The timetables for 2026 green season (April through December) have been published!
For the most up-to-date departure and arrival times, please visit our dedicated timetable pages:
Ticketing and Travel Passes
Important Update: Pay-as-you-go boarding (paying the driver directly) is no longer permitted on Nagaden Express Buses. All passengers must secure their tickets prior to boarding.
Because these express routes are incredibly popular, advance booking is strictly necessary. During peak seasons and winter months, buses frequently sell out well in advance. If you arrive at the station without a pre-booked ticket or a reserved tour, there is a high probability that the ticket office will turn you away.
You have two main ways to secure your journey:
1. Pre-Purchasing Standard Tickets
You must purchase your tickets before lining up for the bus.
- How to Book Online (Recommended): Independent tickets must be purchased through the official Webket Reservation System (English toggle available). You must create and register a Webket account before buying.
- Booking Window: Tickets open 90 days in advance at midnight JST.
- Entry Timeslots: When booking, you must select your specific date and arrival window.
- Station Purchase: If you cannot book online or are not part of an organized tour package, tickets can be purchased at the "Aruyo" ticket office at the Nagano Station East Exit. However, same-day availability is highly unlikely during peak seasons.
- Accepted Payment Methods at the Station: Cash, PayPay, AliPay, Credit Cards (Visa, JCB, Amex, Mastercard), and IC Cards (Suica, PASMO).
- Where to Board:
- Bus Stop 23: For passengers heading to Shiga Kogen.
- Bus Stop 24: For passengers heading to the Snow Monkey Park.
2. Using the Snow Monkey Pass
The Snow Monkey Pass (Express Bus Version)
For the 2026 Winter Season, there are 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 available online in advance, and can be purchased on-site inside of Nagano Station.
- Cost: JPY 6,800 (Adults 13+) / JPY 3,400 (Children 6-12).
- Where to Buy: Available online via the park's official Webket ticketing service or 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 24 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.
20 Things to Do Around the Monkey Park & Where to Stay
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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 ’20 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.
Important Winter Update: Upcoming Entry Changes at the Snow Monkey Park
Planning your visit to the Snow Monkey Park for December, January, February, or March?
For the 2026/2027 winter season, the Snow Monkey Park has introduced an advance online ticketing and timed-entry system for the upcoming peak winter season. All visitors planning an independent trip to Jigokudani Yaen-koen (Snow Monkey Park) must navigate the new mandatory online ticketing system and strict winter parking restrictions.
Peak Season Entry & Parking Restrictions
- Mandatory Online Tickets: During peak times—primarily winter (Dec–Mar) and major domestic holidays like New Year, Golden Week, and Obon—visitors must present a date-specific advance ticket QR code to be admitted to the park after walking the trail. Walk-ins face long waits or total entry denial at the ticket check-in counter at the bottom of the trail.
- Civilian Parking Bans: Nearby parking lots are completely closed to private vehicles on peak winter weekends and public holidays. Public transport or guided tours are strongly recommended. Travel via public transportation is being encouraged by the Snow Monkey Park.
How to Book Independent Tickets Online
- Booking Portal: Tickets must be purchased through the official Webket Reservation System (English toggle available).
- Account Required: You must create and register a Webket account before buying.
- Booking Window: Tickets open 90 days in advance at midnight JST.
- Entry Timeslots: When booking, you must select your specific date and arrival window.
For more details on how to go about placing your reservation for tickets to the Snow Monkey Park, please see our How to Purchase Snow Monkey Park Tickets in Advance webpage.
The best way to secure your winter entry to the Snow Monkey Park? Book a guided tour or private charter with Snow Monkey Resorts.
By booking one of our curated snow monkey tours, or private charter services, you can travel with complete peace of mind. Here is how booking with us ensures a seamless experience during the peak season while the snow monkey park adjusts to its new policy:
- Guaranteed Park Entry: We secure reserved ticket allocations for our guests, completely bypassing the complex online booking system and ensuring guaranteed access.
- Direct Transportation: Skip the hazardous winter roads and vehicle bans—our private vehicles drop you off directly near the park trail.
- Hassle-Free Experience: Enjoy an all-inclusive itinerary complete with a local English-speaking guide, organized logistics, and optional seasonal activities like sake tasting or snow fun.
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1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Don't need a guide? We can transport you to and from the park with seamless logistics from areas such as Nagano Station, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Matsumoto, and more!
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
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.
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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.
Small Group
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Or, if you would like to see more of Nagano's breathtaking nature and learn about its spiritual history, you can join our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano". This tour combines a visit to the Snow Monkey Park with a trip to Togakushi Shrine, also known as the “Five Shrines,” famous for its rows of towering ancient cedar trees lining the path to the inner shrine.
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 and No. 24 are 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.
In the Winter time it is necessary to book in advance. In the green season you can additionally purchase tickets at the Aruyo bus station at the ground floor of the eastern exit of Nagano Station.
No, only buses that depart from Bus Stop No. 23 go to Shiga Kogen. These buses do not stop at the Snow Monkey Park.
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.