Excursions Snow Monkey & Temple Zenkoji

Details

Arrive at Kambayashi Onsen in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park–

It is a 30 minute walk from the car park area to the snow monkey location. Since 1964, Jigokudani yaenkoen loved by many people in all over the world. Jigokudani Yaenkoen as a place where the interesting the mode of life of the Japanese Macaque can be observed nearby. Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in the valley of Yokoyu-River that flowing from Shigakogen area of the northern part of Nagano-Prefecture. At 850 meters in elevation, it is a harsh environment where snow covers the ground for
one-third of the year. People called Jigokudani (Hell’s Valley) because they could see the spectacle that looks like the hell that steep cliff, spring out boiling water from the surface of the earth. But this place is a paradise for monkeys. Two groups of monkeys are living in naturally at present.

Japanese course lunch at Obuse – Suzuhana Restaurant

Obuse (oh-boo-say) is a small but dynamic town located in Nagano Prefecture. Obuse blends culture and the arts with an atmosphere of camaraderie, for good food, sake, and the company of friends is appreciated. For Lunch there is a choice of Japanese fish or meat as well as a choice of local Obuse wine or sake. (*Advance booking is required for vegetarian customers.)

Zenkoji Temple
One of the most visited temples in Japan, Zenkoji was founded 1400 years ago and stores, what many believe to be the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. A copy of the statue is shown to the public every six years for a few weeks. The next opportunity will in 2015. Most recently rebuilt in 1707, Zenkoji’s main hall has a tunnel in its basement in which visitors are trying to find and touch the “key to paradise” in complete darkness. The key is attached to the wall and grants enlightenment to anybody who touches it.
Sake Brewery
For those who are Japanese Sake lovers, Nishino Mon Sake Brewery within a walking distance from Zenkoji temple is a must-visit. Visit the brewery and learn about the numerous varieties of the Japanese sake.