Places You'll See
Highlights
- Experience a full day of skiing or snowboarding at one of Nagano’s top resorts, with lift pass, equipment rental, and transport all included.
- Witness the world-famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani as they soak in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-covered forests.
- Enjoy a guided sake tasting experience and learn about Nagano’s traditional brewing methods using pure mountain water and locally grown rice.
- Take in breathtaking alpine views and fresh powder snow in Japan’s renowned winter wonderland—ideal for beginners and experienced skiers alike.
- Partake in an optional 2-hour beginner lesson if requested and ordered, making the most of your time on the slopes
Description
Surrounded by mountains and known for its rich history, natural beauty, and deep-rooted spirituality, Nagano offers a refreshing escape from Japan’s bustling cities—especially in winter, when the region transforms into a snowy wonderland. With easy access from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Nagano serves as the perfect base for exploring both cultural landmarks and alpine adventures.
Only have a couple of days to spare? This 2-day Nagano itinerary blends the best of the region—from snow monkeys and ancient temples to sake tasting and skiing—while returning to Nagano City each evening, allowing you to relax and stay in the same hotel throughout your trip.
*ESTIMATED BUDGET – Please note that the estimated budget advertised on this page is only for the cost of the tours and what they include. Some tours may include transportation between tour destinations via tour buses. However some tours do not include transportation between tour destinations, and you will need to book your own transportation in such cases. Please refer to each tour listed on this page for further information on what is not included.
Day 1 NAGANO - Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake
How to Start Your Day
One of Japan’s most rewarding winter escapes, Nagano offers unparalleled skiing and snowboarding for beginners and veterans alike, complete with snow monkeys, historic temples, and alpine charm.
Located just an hour away from Tokyo, this itinerary makes for a perfect break from the city to say that you have skied Japan and saw the famous snow monkeys in person! Day 1 starts at 09:35, which is perfect for an early morning departure from Tokyo to participate in this itinerary!
Day 1 is a one-of-a-kind winter day trip from Nagano Station combining a visit to the historic Zenkoji Temple, a guided walk to see wild snow monkeys in their hot spring habitat, and a tasting of locally brewed sake.
Zenko-ji Temple and Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Tour / all year round
Day Tour
¥19,800
Including what is perhaps Nagano's biggest international attraction, the snow loving primates of Jigokudani, this tour ranks amongst our most popular for good reason. Starting with a morning visit to the Zenko-ji Temple, one of the oldest and most important temples not only in Nagano but in all of Japan, you will be treated to lovely architecture and informative talks about the history of Japanese Buddhism. After the temple trip, your guide will lead to you a well-respected Sake brewery just outside of the temple grounds, with numerous types of sake to try as well as non alcoholic drinks and even miso soup on the menu. With a taste of the finer side of life still on your tongue, the next stop will be lunch, where tour guests will be treated to fine Japanese cuisine utilizing local ingredients. And last but certainly not least, you will be taken to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! With ample time in the park to watch these silly creatures bathe, play, eat and engage in their daily antics, there is little more you could ask for in a single day.
Pick Up Locations: Nagano Station, Hotel Kokusai 21, Hakuba (multiple locations, winter only)
How to End Your Day
After returning to Nagano City in the late afternoon, enjoy some time to explore at your own pace. We recommend staying near Nagano Station, which offers easy access to local restaurants, shopping, and evening strolls through the city as the area outside the station becomes alive at night. Whether you unwind with a local meal or take in the quiet charm of the post-temple streets, Nagano is the perfect place to relax after a fulfilling day of culture, nature, and discovery.
Recommended Accommodation
As the region’s main transport hub, Nagano City offers a range of accommodations to suit every travel style.
The area around Nagano Station is ideal for visitors, with convenient access to trains, tour departures, and a wide variety of hotels—from business-style hotels to boutique stays. We can offer all-in-one hotel and tour deals at the following accommodations, so you can rest assured that we can take care of your entire stay in Nagano from start to finish!
Check out our Nagano destination page for more information on where to stay.
Day 2 NAGANO - Ski Tour Package from Nagano Station
How to Start Your Day
Nagano’s prime location in the heart of Japan’s snow country makes it the perfect jumping-off point for an unforgettable day on the slopes. Surrounded by world-class ski resorts, the region offers powder-rich terrain ideal for all skill levels. On this ski tour, you’ll head into the mountains with everything taken care of—lift pass, rentals, and transport—so you can focus on enjoying the fresh snow and stunning alpine views. Whether you're a first-timer taking lessons with us or a seasoned skier, this day in the mountains offers the perfect balance of excitement, scenery, and winter charm.
1 Day Ski Tour Package from Nagano Station / December - March
Home to more than eighty ski resorts such as Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen, Hakuba, and many more, as well as featuring some of the country’s best powder and terrain – all within easy access of Tokyo and its airports – we consider Nagano to be Japan’s best ski and snowboard destination. Perfect as a day trip from Tokyo, or just to enhance an already amazing Japan vacation, we're here to offer a stress free all-inclusive day ski package featuring everything you need to enjoy your day. From transport to the ski resort, rental equipment, lift passes, and even optional lessons, this package is perfect for those who wish to try skiing for the first time or experienced skiers who want to challenge Japan's slopes themselves without the hassle of carrying all of their equipment!
How to End Your Day
That’s all for your 2-day winter escape in Nagano! From here, you can continue your journey into the Japanese Alps, explore nearby destinations like Matsumoto and Kanazawa, or head back to the city life of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka. For those returning home, Nagano Station’s direct shinkansen access makes onward travel smooth and convenient, ensuring a comfortable end to your winter adventure.
