Zenkoji Temple Attractions & Things to do

Take in some of the highlights of Nagano with this engaging tour starting with a visit to Zenko-ji Temple – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan - followed by sake tasting and lunch at a nearby restaurant. It's then time to head to the Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys! All led by a locally-based English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to see the best that Nagano has to offer and get up close and personal with its most famous furry residents!
Duration: 8 hours.

On this full-day journey, see two of the great sights close to Nagano. Discover the serene grounds of Zenko-ji, a beautiful temple famous for its ancient Buddhist statue. Before traveling down a lovely woodland walk to the home of the snow monkeys, a troop of native macaques renowned for their ability to live in the snow and bathe in the nearby hot spring.
Discover Zenko-ji, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.
Take a break from sightseeing and have lunch & Sake testing at Monzen Terrace beautiful hotel.
Visit the Snow Monkey Park to learn more about snow monkeys in their natural environment.
Visit a restaurant close to Nagano and have a typical Japanese meal.
Note.
Total tour will be 8 to 10 hours including traveling.
Duration: 8 to 10 hours.

Hi, I'm Kye. A Japan-born half-Australian semi-pro photographer who's quick with a joke. Traveling through Japan can be awesome, but it can also be challenging. My boys and I are here to make your trip smoother, and more comfortable. Not to mention, memorable!

This page used to be one of our pages for our Mt Fuji trip, but I hope the reviews can give you an idea of our quality and character:)

Leave all your problems and anxiety about traveling around Japan with public transport at your hotel. With us, you'll have a Native English and Japanese-speaking driver catering to all of your group's needs.

With this day trip to Nagano, you can choose what you want to see or discuss what works best for your needs with me. I've put a few places in the sample itinerary to give you a few ideas;)

The standard car we use is a 2023 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. A Japanese luxury van is available as an option as well in case you want the extra space. Professional photography is included in this tour:)
Duration: 12 hours.

On this full-day journey, see the great sights close to Nagano - a historic temple, a sake tasting, and snow monkeys. See the Snow Monkey Park to learn more about snow monkeys in their natural environment. Discover Zenko-ji, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.taste a restaurant close to Nagano and have a typical Japanese meal.
Duration: 10 hours.

Situated between the popular destinations of Tokyo and Kyoto, the mountainous of region of Nagano is the literal heart of Japan and a road less travelled by many international visitors. This tour combines some of the region’s most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With English-speaking guide, lunch, and full-service accommodation on Day 1 followed by hotel pick-up and transport to Matsumoto and Takayama, including hotel drop-off, on Day 2, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
Duration: 2 days.

Experience the ultimate blend of fun and entertainment tailored for families, friends, couples, and groups. This unforgettable tour promises to create lasting memories. En route to Nagano, marvel at the breathtaking scenery and the majestic view of Mt. Fuji.
Delve into the rich history of Zen-koji Temple, home to the revered Buddha statue, dating back to the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Explore the renowned Snow Monkey Park, where these fascinating creatures captivate visitors worldwide with their winter baths and year-round antics, ensuring they remain the highlight of your journey.

This Trip get's you best locations trip around Nagano.

Tour duration is approx 12 hours including commuting time.

Our Experienced Driver will get you around at your ease.

One More big plus, These trips are fully customizable.

Duration: 12 hours.

Starting from Nagano City or any of the Nagano's 5 main ski resorts
(Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen, Madarao Kogen) , we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off back at the pick up location or in Nagano City.
On this tour, you will visit the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and learn all about what makes the resident monkeys so unique, and enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant and experience Nagano’s renowned food culture.
Guests will also have a chance to stroll the charming streets of the historic town of Obuse, and enjoy viewing its remaining Edo period buildings, as well as explore Zenko-ji, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, and home to the first known Buddhist statue to be brought to Japan.
A Sake tasting experience with detailed explanations from your guide is also included(non-alcoholic options available).
Duration: 8 to 10 hours.

This Tour get's you best locations trip around in Nagano including historic place and delicious Japanese Food. Our experienced Driver will get you around at your ease.
Let's visualize Zenko-ji Temple, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park & delicious food at famous restaurant in Nagano area.

This trip is fully customizable.
Duration: 6 hours.

On this tour, spend a full-day in Nagano exploring the city and enjoying what this quaint town has to offer. Your English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from your hotel or Nagano Train Station at 8:45 AM. You will either take public transportation (train and bus) or private chartered vehicle around town based on your booking.
Immerse yourself in the city's culture and visit major Nagano attractions such as Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, the famous Zenkoji Temple, Chikuma River, Obuse Town, and relax in a traditional onsen/ hot spring (optional).
Duration: 8 hours.

The city of Nagano is an intensely beautiful and historic part of Japan, only a stone’s throw away from the capital city of Tokyo. Nagano is a place of incredible Shinto and Buddhist history and home to one of Japan’s most iconic temple and shrine. While many of Japan’s cities lay claim to an identity of nature-meets-human-invention, that atmosphere can be felt in Nagano better than almost anywhere else in Japan.

In this tour, your knowledgeable licensed local guide will accompany you on your journey features an historic districts and even ancient pilgrimages. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize your four-hours special tour that's best for you.

Note*1: You will not be able to visit all the sights on the tour. You must choose 2 to 3 sights and inform your guide.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 4 hours.

Come to Nagano and join this experience to taste one of the best Sake in Japan. The Sake maker we’ll explore has over 300 years history and you will taste the differences between Sakes of the highest quality, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and many other seasonable Sakes.

- Taste more than 5 local Sakes including Nagano’s plum wine with nibbles like soy source beans and some Japanese pickles.
- Taste 3 different Amazake(non alcoholic sweet drink)
-Complimentary photographs taken throughout the experience to be shared with you after the tour
- You can have Nagano’s miso soup
- Admission free to visit old sake factory
- Explore Nagano’s laid back area around Zenkoji temple to visit some local shops
- Learn and practice authentic Japanese eating style and discover other parts of Nagano
- Connect with local business owners to learn the history and local culture.
Duration: 2 hours.

Take in some of the highlights of Nagano with this engaging tour starting with a morning visit to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys, followed by a warming winter lunch and afternoon exploration of Zenko-ji - one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. Led by a locally-based English-speaking guide and including a sake tasting experience to bring the tour to an indulgent conclusion this tour is a great way to enjoy the best of Nagano in winter!
Duration: 8 to 9 hours.

Experience the essence of Japan on a captivating 10-day journey through its cultural gems and natural wonders. Begin in Tokyo, bustling with Tsukiji Fish Market, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Sky-tree, and Shibuya Crossing. Explore Mount Fuji’s beauty and serene lakes, then soak in Hakone's hot springs. Discover Nagano’s snow monkeys and Zenko-Ji Temple. In Nikko Tochigi, marvel at Kegon Falls and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Dive into Osaka’s vibrant city life, then Kyoto’s ancient shrines and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Lastly, reflect at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park before returning enriched by Japan's diversity.

Highlights of the Tour:
Fully customizable itinerary.
English-speaking driver.
Private transportation.
Enough Time to explore Japan.

Let us unveil the magic of all famous attractions of Japan, where every moment is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through Japan's most captivating destinations!
Book Now!
Duration: 10 days.

We designed this tour for full fun and entertainment especially your Families, Friends, Couples and Groups. This tour will be memorable of your life.
On the way to Nagano, the unique scenery and the view of Mt. Fuji are breathtaking.
Most interesting is in Zen-koji Temple the most important Buddha statue in Zen-koji Temple was brought to Japan, when Buddhism was introduced. It is claimed to be the earliest Buddha statue in Japan.

The most interesting Snow Monkey Park in this tour which is very famous all over the World. Monkey bath in water and many more. Monkeys remain the center of attention throughout the year.

We have all types of vehicles according to the number of Travelers.
In our tour pick up & drop off are included, travelers can send us their pick up address in special requirements or book the Tour.

There is almost distance from the general area of Tokyo to Nagano Snow Monkey Park 3 hours & 40 minutes one side by express way.

Note:
Saving time makes you Rich.
Duration: 12 hours.

We pick and drop from your staying place of hotel or airbnb apartments.

You can choose one place snow monkey park Nagano or Tsukuba Mountain day tour.

You can choose one option snow monkey Nagano tour or Mt Tsukuba Ibaraki day tour

We can bring you full day Nagano tour or Mt Tsukuba Day tour from your hotel by Car.

Our tour is fully customisable you can add or remove any place of your choice. We can bring your choice of place.

We pick up all travelers from there pick up location address. Please send your pick up address in [Special Requirement] Or book the tour we will contact you & ask your own pick up address.

NAGANO snow monkey Tour Itineraries

1-Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

2-Zenko-ji Temple

OR

MT TSUKUBA TOUR ITINERARY

1- Mt Tsukuba

2- Cable car Tsukuba

3- Ushiku Big Buddha Statue

4- Ami outlet big shopping mall

5- Tsukuba San Shirine
Duration: 10 hours.

Enjoy a 2-day, 1 night trip in Nagano where you will spend one full day with an English-speaking guide taking you around the city—enjoying attractions such as snow monkeys, the famous Zenkoji Temple and later relaxing at a traditional onsen (hot springs) and enjoying a traditional Japanese multi-course (kaiseki) dinner at a traditional Japanese ryokan (hotel). On the second day after checking out of the hotel, spend the free day snowboarding/ skiing or spend more time exploring the city on your own (without tour guide), or book one of the add-on second-day tours with us.
Duration: 2 days.

Take the bullet train to Nagano, round-trip from Tokyo, and explore both cities with a knowledgeable private guide.

Soak in an amazing ‘onsen’ (hot springs bath), and be entertained by the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park.

This private three-day tour is an ideal way to experience Japan’s cultural and culinary delights.
Duration: 3 days.

Hi, I'm Kye. A slightly sarcastic Japan-born half-Australian semi-pro photographer who's quick with a joke. Traveling through Japan can be awesome, it can also be very confusing and difficult. Japan Xperiences is here to make your trip smoother, more comfortable, and zero stress:) Not to mention, more memorable!

The three destinations that this trip covers are the places we think everyone visiting Japan should see at least once! Mt Fuji needs no introduction, so let me tell you more about the other two:

Takayama is a rural town north of Nagoya and is often called miniature Kyoto. There is a ton of history to immerse yourself in:) The best part? It's not overcrowded yet! Takayama is my hometown so you'll be sure to get a lot of authentic local experiences;)

The standard car we use is a 2023 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. A Japanese luxury van is available as an option as well in case you want the extra space!

Duration: 3 days.

Enjoy making Oyaki(Japanese Stuffed Dumplings) and you can have it in front of a traditional Japanese sunken hearth. A Nagano specialty, oyaki are roasted dumplings made of wheat and filled with seasonal vegetables or sweet bean paste. You will learn to make oyaki and roast them in a sunken hearth. After enjoying the warm dumplings by the fireplace, your guide will take you to Nagano’s laid back area to visit some local shops around Zenkoji temple

・Making 2 Oyaki and have them with Soba Tea in a traditional Japanese house with sunken hearth.
・Explore Nagano's back street area, as we walk to Zenkoji temple.
・Learn and practice authentic Japanese eating style and discover other parts of Nagano outside of your guidebook.
・Connect with local business owners to learn the history and local culture.
・Photography Tour : We will be on hand to take some happy snaps which will be shared with you after the tour!

*Please let us know if you have any food restrictions beforehand*
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

This engaging special event tour transports you to Nagano’s hidden samurai town of Matsuhiro for an afternoon of samurai experiences and discovery of the open secret beneath its feet before enjoying an early dinner and guided evening tour of the city’s near-1400 year old Zenko-ji Temple during it’s Tomyo Lantern Festival.
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes.

The city of Nagano is an intensely beautiful and historic part of Japan, only a stone’s throw away from the capital city of Tokyo. Nagano is a place of incredible Shinto and Buddhist history and home to one of Japan’s most iconic temple and shrine. While many of Japan’s cities lay claim to an identity of nature-meets-human-invention, that atmosphere can be felt in Nagano better than almost anywhere else in Japan.

In this tour, your knowledgeable licensed local guide will accompany you on your journey features an historic districts and even ancient pilgrimages. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize your six-hours special tour that's best for you.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Duration: 6 hours.

Exclusive Zenkoji Temple Event, available only on January 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2025!

Embark on an exclusive Zenkoji Temple experience, discovering Japan's 1,400-year-old national treasure with a private tour led by the head priest.
Gain access to the temple’s sacred inner sanctum and engage in traditional rituals such as "Oai", "Oteido", and the Goma fire ceremony for a profound cultural experience.

Enjoy an impressive "Battojutsu" performance, followed by a gourmet dinner featuring Nagano wines, inspired by the renowned manga "The Drops of God."

For a truly authentic experience, stay at a traditional Shukubo, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere of the temple while exploring Nagano’s winter wonderland.

On the second day, choose your adventure with options to see the famous snow monkeys in their natural hot spring habitat or stroll through the charming streets of Matsumoto to visit its historic castle.

Don’t miss this opportunity for an unforgettable cultural adventure!
Duration: 2 days.

Kimono Experience
We have many types of traditional clothing, from flashy samurai outfits to antique kimonos. our Kimono dressing is quick and easy compared to other types of kimonos. After the scheduled activities in the tour, you can enjoy the town of Zenko-ji and its surroundings. There are fun dining spots and activities nearby.

Making a Strap
Let's make a strap with colors and shapes perfect for exploring Zenko-ji. Making a strap is a mindful activity which is like a Japanese meditation. After making the strap, we will purify it on a crystal.

We use "TonboDama" which is Japanese beads made of glass witch has many types for making accessories.


Duration: 4 hours.

See the real Japan and experience its culture beyond the typical tourist sites. You'll walk through busy streets, ride the bullet train, and enjoy local foods. Each tour is customized to fit the preferences of the group.
Duration: 10 days.

In recent years Central Japan has become increasingly popular as a stop along the Tokyo to Kyoto “Golden Route”. The reason for this, simply stated, is that Central Japan offers every experience the traveler could desire from Japan, while also being located close to some of Japan’s largest cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. From majestic mountain peaks to delicious local sake, and of course the famous Snow Monkeys, our multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you to every location you dreamed of, and many you may not have heard of yet. Starting in Nagano and ending in Kanazawa, this tour is perfect for those wishing to move through central Japan and removes the necessity of dealing with train and bus transfers. While accommodation is not included, transport between all destinations and an English speaking guide are provided on every day of the tour, so you do not have to worry about the small things and can instead focus on enjoying your vacation time.
Duration: 4 days.

Japan is a country that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offering travelers an array of experiences. From bustling cities filled with neon lights to serene temples surrounded by nature, a tour in Japan can be both exhilarating and calming. The journey typically begins in major urban centers like Tokyo or Osaka, where visitors are greeted by the vibrant energy of the city.
Duration: 15 days.

Designed to provide guests with an intimate yet entertaining understanding of Nagano’s near-1,400 year-old Zenko-ji temple, this 2 day group tour combines an in-depth guided experience at the temple including a private ‘goma’ prayer fire ceremony and an exploration of the region’s food culture and renowned ‘sake’ with an overnight stay at a traditional ‘shukubo’ (temple lodging).
Duration: 2 days.

Nagano 5-Day Pass is a ticket that allows you to fully enjoy the trains in the surrounding area including Nagano, Shinano, Ueda, Matsumoto. Nagano Prefecture is located in the central part of Honshu, Japan, and is called the roof of Japan. Take a trip to Nagano, one of Japan's most precious spas and treasures of history and culture. You can also observe wild monkeys enjoying hot springs in Jikkudaniya Enkoen during the winter season.
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Coverage Area:
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[[Shinano Electric Railway (しなの鉄道)]]
-- Karizawa Station (軽井沢駅) - Shino noi Station (篠ノ井駅)
-- Nagano Station (長野駅) to Myogogo Kogen Station (妙高高原駅)
[[Nagano Electric Railway (長野電鉄)]]
-- Nagano Station (長野駅) - Yudanagawa Station (湯田中駅)
-- Ueda Electric Railway (上田電鉄)
[[Ueda Station (上田駅) - Bessho Onsen Station (別所温泉駅)]]
-- Matsumoto Station (松本駅) - Shinshigashima Station (新島々駅)
Duration: 5 days.

See the real Japan and experience its culture beyond the typical tourist sites. You'll walk through busy streets, ride the bullet train, and enjoy local foods. Each tour is customized to fit the preferences of the group.
Duration: 15 days.

Experience the essence of Japan on a captivating 10-day journey through its cultural gems and natural wonders. Begin in Tokyo, bustling with Tsukiji Fish Market, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Sky-tree, and Shibuya Crossing. Explore Mount Fuji’s beauty and serene lakes, then soak in Hakone's hot springs. Discover Nagano’s snow monkeys and Zenko-Ji Temple. In Nikko Tochigi, marvel at Kegon Falls and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Dive into Osaka’s vibrant city life, then Kyoto’s ancient shrines and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Lastly, reflect at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park before returning enriched by Japan's diversity. Highlights of the Tour: Fully customizable itinerary. English-speaking driver. Private transportation. Enough Time to explore Japan. Let us unveil the magic of all the famous attractions of Japan, where every moment is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through Japan's most captivating destinations! Book Now!


Duration: 10 days.

Experience the authentic Japan and immerse yourself in its rich culture, going beyond the usual tourist attractions. Picture strolling through vibrant streets, zipping on the bullet train, and indulging in delicious local delicacies. Every tour is specially crafted to suit the group's unique preferences.
Duration: 10 days.

On this full-day journey, see two of the great sights close to Nagano. Discover the serene grounds of Zenko-ji, a beautiful temple famous for its ancient Buddhist statue. Before traveling down a lovely woodland walk to the home of the snow monkeys, a troop of native macaques renowned for their ability to live in the snow and bathe in the nearby hot spring.
Discover Zenko-ji, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.
Take a break from sightseeing and have lunch & Sake testing at Monzen Terrace beautiful hotel.
Visit the Snow Monkey Park to learn more about snow monkeys in their natural environment.
Visit a restaurant close to Nagano and have a typical Japanese meal.
Note.
Total tour will be 8 to 10 hours including traveling.
We will provide a neat and clean big space and comfortable vehicle seats like a business class it's 10 hour tour with travel with us you never feel tide.
Duration: 10 hours.

Combining a visit to Nagano’s world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and evening exploration of the Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival, this enjoyable 1-day tour marks the midpoint of winter and illuminates Nagano’s ancient heart! Including an early dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, this tour brings warmth and light into the midst of winter.

This tour begins at Nagano Station, from where you will be transported to the Jigokudani Monkey Park before returning to Nagano City for a warming winter dinner at Monzen Terrace Enya, before being guided around the Zenko-ji Temple precinct in the beauty and tranquility of its annual Tomyo Lantern Festival. All led by a locally-based, English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Nagano in winter.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

Discover Nagano's natural beauty and cultural heritage on a private day trip, exploring the region's spiritual significance, fascinating wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Visit 7th-century Zenkoji Temple a revered spiritual destination renowned for its architectural splendor serene atmosphere and historic significance. See snow monkeys soaking in hot springs at Jigokudani Monkey Park a unique and fascinating spectacle that showcases the region's natural beauty. Enjoy sake tasting in Obuse learning about traditional brewing methods sampling local flavors, and discovering the art of sake production. Savor Nagano's local cuisine featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Explore charming Obuse with its picturesque streets, historic buildings and cultural attractions. Visit the Hokusai Museum to appreciate the region's rich cultural heritage and artistic significance. Return with unforgettable memories of Nagano's unique culture history and natural beauty.
Duration: 10 to 12 hours.