Japan tourism information: Nagano

Showing posts with label Nagano. Show all posts

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Introduction

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a tourist spot where you can see wild Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs. It is famous as a winter tradition in Japan and is loved by many people.

The charm of Jigokudani Monkey Park

1 Wild Japanese macaques: At Jigokudani Monkey Park, wild Japanese macaques live in a natural environment. There are hot springs and feeding grounds in the park, and the Japanese macaques are free to move around.

2 Close-up observation: At Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can observe Japanese macaques from a relatively close distance. There is a walking path and an observatory in the park, and you can see how the monkeys live up close.

Coexistence with 3 hot springs: Jigokudani Monkey Park is adjacent to Yamadera Onsen. There is a park in the hot spring area, and the Japanese macaques sometimes bathe in the hot springs.

Recommended spots around Jigokudani Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park is also surrounded by tourist attractions such as Yudanaka Onsen and Shiga Kogen.

Access information

About 40 minutes by bus from JR Nagano Station, get off at Snow Monkey Park, then walk 35 minutes.

Here is a website where you can obtain detailed information about Jigokudani Monkey Park.

https://jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/

Zenkoji Temple

Introduction

Zenkoji Temple in Nagano Prefecture is loved by many people with Ikko Sanzon Amida Nyorai, which is said to be the oldest Buddhist statue in Japan, as its principal object of worship.

Charm of Zenkoji

It is a temple with a history of over 1,400 years. The main hall of Zenkoji is designated as a national treasure of Japan. This magnificent structure is a masterpiece of Buddhist art and attracts many devotees and tourists. At Zenkoji, a special event called Gokaicho is held approximately every seven years. During this period, the principal image enshrined in the Amida-do Hall inside the temple is open to the public, and many worshipers visit.

Recommended spots around Zenkoji Temple

Nearby spots include Shinshu Zenkoji Nakamise Street, Zenkoji Omotesando Shopping Street, and Nishinomon Yoshinoya.

Access information

It takes about 15 minutes by bus bound for Zenkoji from JR Nagano Station.

Here is a website where you can obtain detailed information about Zenkoji Temple.

https://www.zenkoji.jp/

Kamikochi

Kamikochi is a mountain scenic spot with an altitude of about 1,500m in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, and is designated as a national cultural property (special scenic spot and special natural monument). Kamikochi, where you can enjoy the beautiful nature of each season, is one of Japan's leading tourist destinations. Kamikochi has many scenic spots and power spots. Here, we will introduce recommended spots and experiences for sightseeing in Kamikochi.

First of all, if you come to Kamikochi, you can't miss Taisho Pond. Taisho Pond is an artificial lake that was created in 1915 by the eruption of Mt. From Taisho Pond, you can see mountains such as the Hotaka mountain range and Mt. Yakedake. At Taisho Pond, you can take a pleasure boat and walk along the walking path.

Next, there is Myojin Pond as a popular power spot that represents Kamikochi. Myojin Pond is a mysterious pond located about 2km away from the center of Kamikochi. Myojin Pond has shrines and small shrines. At Myojin Pond, you can take a quiet walk and take pictures while feeling the nature.

Finally, there is Mt. Yake as one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan where you can enjoy a day hike in Kamikochi. Yakedake is an active volcano with an altitude of 2,455m, and smoke rises from the crater. Yake-dake departs from the trailhead about 30 minutes by bus from Kamikochi. At Mt. Yakedake, you can see the volcano's crater lake and lava flow, as well as views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

These are the recommended spots and experiences for sightseeing in Kamikochi. Kamikochi is a place rich in nature, so please be considerate of the environment when visiting. Also, prepare clothes and belongings according to the temperature and weather. Please make wonderful memories in Kamikochi.