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Top things to do in Shimotakai

Nagano Jigokudani Monkey Park, Togakushi Shrine, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Culture Experience Day Tour (Departing from Nagano)
Fall deal
Fall deal
Tours • From Nagano

Nagano Jigokudani Monkey Park, Togakushi Shrine, Zenkoji Temple & Sake Culture Experience Day Tour (Departing from Nagano)

English guided
Free cancellation
★ 4.8 (87) • 1K+ booked
US$ 95.75
30 off
Sale
Snow Monkey Tour from Tokyo with Beef Sukiyaki Lunch
Fall deal
Fall deal
Tours • From Tokyo

Snow Monkey Tour from Tokyo with Beef Sukiyaki Lunch

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (552) • 9K+ booked
US$ 119.09
20 off
Sale
Togakushi Shrine & Snow Monkeys Full-Day Mountain Tour
Tours • From Tokyo

Togakushi Shrine & Snow Monkeys Full-Day Mountain Tour

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 3.9 (17) • 100+ booked
US$ 115.15
15 off
Sale
Nozawa | Togari Ski Resort Chinese and English ski instructor
Fall deal
Fall deal
Outdoor & sports activities • Shimotakai

Nozawa | Togari Ski Resort Chinese and English ski instructor

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (6) • 50+ booked
From US$ 323.80
15 off
Sale
Nagano Winter Private Tour with a local guide (from November to May)
Tours • From Myoko, Matsumoto, Shimotakai, Nagano, Kitaadumi

Nagano Winter Private Tour with a local guide (from November to May)

Book now for tomorrow
Private tour
English guided
Private group
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 5.0 (27) • 500+ booked
US$ 138.39
Winter Nagano Day Trip | Zenko-ji Temple & Iiyama Snow Hut & Nozawa Onsen Village (Departing from Nagano)
Tours • From Nagano

Winter Nagano Day Trip | Zenko-ji Temple & Iiyama Snow Hut & Nozawa Onsen Village (Departing from Nagano)

English guided
Free cancellation
★ 4.6 (14) • 200+ booked
US$ 97.79
50 off
Sale
Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine Private Day Tour from Nagano
Tours • From Nagano, Myoko, Joetsu, Kitaadumi, Shimotakai

Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine Private Day Tour from Nagano

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
50+ booked
US$ 182.35
Snow Monkey and Shiga Kogen Roman Museum Trip with Lunch Buffet
Tours • From Tokyo

Snow Monkey and Shiga Kogen Roman Museum Trip with Lunch Buffet

English guided
Free cancellation
★ 4.7 (54) • 800+ booked
US$ 134.79
Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shibu Onsen Cultural Tour
Klook's choice
Tours • From Shimotakai

Nagano Snow Monkey Park & Shibu Onsen Cultural Tour

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
★ 4.9 (46) • 600+ booked
US$ 90.55
Rhythm Hakuba Ski/Snowboard Gear & Wear Rental
Outdoor & sports activities • From Kitaadumi, Azumino, Chiisagata County, Chikuma, Chino

Rhythm Hakuba Ski/Snowboard Gear & Wear Rental

English guided
Morning departure
7+ hrs
Private group
Free cancellation
US$ 100.25
Nagano Snow Monkey Park Small Group Tour with Guide
Tours • From Nagano

Nagano Snow Monkey Park Small Group Tour with Guide

English guided
Free cancellation
New Activity
US$ 65.15

Top attractions in Shimotakai

Nature park
5.0/5(5K+ reviews)

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Welcome to Jigokudani Monkey Park Shimotakai, a magical haven where nature and wildlife come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Japan, this enchanting park is renowned for its wild Japanese macaques, affectionately known as snow monkeys. These fascinating creatures have captivated the hearts of visitors from around the world as they soak in the natural hot springs, a sight unique to this part of the globe. Set against the stunning backdrop of Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park, the park is located in the serene forests of the Jigokudani valley, also known as 'Hell's Valley' due to its steaming hot springs and rugged terrain. Here, you can witness the playful antics and heartwarming family interactions of these delightful animals, all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Yamanouchi's landscape. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or an animal lover, Jigokudani Monkey Park offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
Ski resort
4.5/5(104K+ reviews)

Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most famous winter destinations! With great ski runs for both beginners and advanced skiers, you'll find lots to explore on the slopes at Nozawa Ski Resort. Start your adventure by gliding down powdery slopes that suit every skill level, from beginner-friendly trails to thrilling advanced runs. After an exciting day on the mountain, relax in one of the village’s 13 free public hot springs and relieve your stress. Then, walk through the traditional streets lined with wooden inns, cozy cafés, and local shops where you can taste delicious Japanese treats.  Don’t miss the Dosojin Fire Festival in January, where the whole village lights up with energy and tradition! Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and winter white landscapes, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort gives you that satisfying blend of thrill and relaxation. So, pack your winter gear and book your Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort tour on Klook!
Park
5.0/5(3K+ reviews)

Shiga Kogen

Located in the picturesque Nagano Prefecture highlands, Shiga Kogen is a group of 18 ski resorts where you can enjoy the biggest ski playground in Japan. With one lift pass, you can access all 48 lifts, gondolas, and ropeways across 18 resorts. Shiga Kogen is split into two main areas, meeting at a lively hub near the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki bus stop. Head south for a scenic climb up Mount Yokote at 2305 meters, where ski slopes and relaxing hot springs dot the route to the peak. Now, the northern area leads you to Oku Shiga Kogen, surrounded by towering 2000-meter peaks, offering a vast expanse for snow enthusiasts to play around. Also, the Higashidateyama Resort was the exciting stage for the slalom and giant slalom events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics.
Tourist attraction
4.5/5(104K+ reviews)

Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen is a charming hot spring village in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. There's a ton to do here in the winter! The village is famous for its Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, which has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Japan. During the ski season, the resort has amazing snow and slopes for both beginners and expert riders. Another cool thing about Nozawa Onsen is its many hot springs or onsens. After a fun day on the slopes, you can relax in a warm and authentic Japanese bath. The local food in Nozawa Onsen is also a treat. Don't miss out on famous Oyaki buns, pickled Nozawana greens, Shinshu Soba noodles, and hot nabe (hot pot) to warm you up in the winter. With awesome skiing, relaxing hot springs, and tasty food, Nozawa Onsen is a must-visit place. It’s easy to get to and just one hour's drive from Iiyama Station, making it perfect for a winter trip.
JR Hokuriku Arch Pass
Fall deal
Rail passes • From Tokyo

JR Hokuriku Arch Pass

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (2,120) • 60K+ booked
US$ 232.49
Freebies
Tokyo Car Rental with Driver to Nearby Ski Resorts - Hakuba/Karuizawa/Niigata
Car charters • From Tokyo

Tokyo Car Rental with Driver to Nearby Ski Resorts - Hakuba/Karuizawa/Niigata

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (92) • 1K+ booked
US$ 444.35
US$ 490.99
Nagano to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
Train tickets • Nagano

Nagano to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket

Instant confirmation
US$ 50.85
Iiyama to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
Train tickets • Iiyama

Iiyama to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket

Instant confirmation
US$ 53.75
Tokyo to Iiyama - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
Train tickets • Tokyo

Tokyo to Iiyama - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket

Instant confirmation
US$ 53.75

Hotels in Shimotakai

Hotel Housei
Hotels • Shimotakai

Hotel Housei

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (237)
From US$ 93.25
US$ 101.55
20 off
Nozawa Grand Hotel
Hotels • Shimotakai

Nozawa Grand Hotel

Instant confirmation
From US$ 154.94
20 off
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel
Hotels • Shimotakai

Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 3.9 (183)
From US$ 151.80
20 off
Snow Monkey Lodge - Hostel
Hotels • Shimotakai

Snow Monkey Lodge - Hostel

Instant confirmation
From US$ 79.42
Wafu No Yado MASUYA
Hotels • Shimotakai

Wafu No Yado MASUYA

Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (150)
From US$ 171.97
20 off
Club Wyndham Shirakabaso Shigakogen
Hotels • Shimotakai

Club Wyndham Shirakabaso Shigakogen

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (6)
From US$ 113.66
US$ 114.80
Shimaya
Hotels • Shimotakai

Shimaya

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (248)
From US$ 161.38
20 off
Koishiya Ryokan
Hotels • Shimotakai

Koishiya Ryokan

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (149)
From US$ 62.71
20 off
Shibu Onsen KOKUYA
Hotels • Shimotakai

Shibu Onsen KOKUYA

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (127)
From US$ 361.96
20 off
Hotel Yudanaka
Hotels • Shimotakai

Hotel Yudanaka

Instant confirmation
★ 3.7 (52)
From US$ 102.67
20 off
Shibu Hotel
Hotels • Shimotakai

Shibu Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.9 (230)
From US$ 294.23
US$ 315.68
20 off
Kumanoyu Hotel
Hotels • Shimotakai

Kumanoyu Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.1 (30)
From US$ 168.72
20 off

Reviews of Shimotakai activities

Charles **********
2026-03-13 13:07:58
Fantastic 5.0
The trip was super nice. It still pushed through even though we're only 5 in the group. The pacing just feels right for both the snow monkey and the shrines. Helen, our tour guide, was also very accommodating and friendly.
ArlizKatrina *****
2026-02-27 12:19:14
Fantastic 5.0
It was a wonderful tour with a lovely tour guide, Hana, same name with sakura. I am glad I booked this daytrip. It was informative and well executed tour despite of a long ride in the bus. First, we stopped by to have a sumptuous beef sukiyaki lunch. Then proceeded to hiking for 40minutes to see cute snow monkeys bathing in hot spring. Please bring cleats or anti slip gear for shoes, to avoid accidents during hiking. So thankful, all of us were mindful of the given time thus we we’re able to complete the itinerary. The last stop was the Kamakura Snow Dome Village. So glad to experience my first snow in Nagano. Truly memorable and magical experience. Arigathanks 🌸💕
Chua **********
2026-02-12 08:52:18
Fantastic 5.0
was initially only looking forward to the Nagano Snow Monkeys portion of the trip but the visit to the shrine was enjoyable too! took many photos.. and loved the walk with surrounding snow. The guide prepared crampons for all of us so the walk was very lovely!
Shalee *******
2026-03-02 08:55:08
Fantastic 5.0
this was a fantastic trio of villages to visit, especially in winter. Gokayama is quiet and otherworldly! The paper washi making was super fun, our guide and driver were consistent and reliable, the car itself was comfy, and the scenery between places was absolutely breathtaking. definitely worth paying the money to get to experience the immense beauty of this region without the hassle of driving or getting around via other methods.
Jacqueline ***
2026-03-04 23:19:47
Fantastic 5.0
Fantastic afternoon tour. The monkeys did not disappoint, we were there for the afternoon. feeding time so we were very fortunate to see so many of them running around and through the crowds without hesitation. Our guide Rosella was brilliant! She was organised, accommodating and so funny! Her knowledge of the local areas and the monkey park was substantial - no question went unanswered. would absolutely recommend you take this tour with Rosella.
Law ********
2026-02-13 06:13:36
Fantastic 5.0
Coach: This class was my first day ever snowboarding. Coach Henry from Taiwan provided attentive and meticulous care, giving me a great experience. Because I always used my left foot as my lead foot when waterskiing, I also used my left foot when I first started snowboarding. Later, the coach noticed that my right foot was more fluid when doing the movements, and encouraged and suggested that I try learning with my right foot. In the end, I really discovered that my right foot was actually my lead foot. Thank you to the coach for understanding my needs and constantly caring about my needs!
Dinah ******
2026-02-16 09:29:50
Fantastic 5.0
Our tour was on a Monday and we had Dave as our guide. The tour itself was great. We started the tour at monkey park. I do wish we had the option to arrive there earlier to beat the crowd, and enjoy walk to the park. But if you’re patient enough, you can get a good spot to see the monkeys in the hot springs. Before heading to the shrine, we stopped for lunch and let Dave picked. So glad he picked, it was delicious soba. Then we arrived at shrine. The walk along the tree lines felt ethereal and majestic, especially with the snow. Now about our tour guide, Dave really made the whole day super enjoyable. He arrived promptly and warmly. Dave was a wonderful tour guide. He lives locally, and pointed out fun local spots. At each location, he was very patient with us. Went above and beyond when taking our photos. Loved this tour.

Shimotakai at a glance

When is the busiest time for Shimotakai activities?

Book earlier for peak months

Busier than usual Quieter than usual
+300%
+200%
+100%
Typical
-100%
+167%
Jan
Busiest +238%
Feb
+161%
Mar
+6%
Apr
-88%
May
-91%
Jun
-88%
Jul
-95% Quietest
Aug
-94%
Sep
-88%
Oct
-53%
Nov
+27%
Dec

Demand peaks in February (about 238% above a typical month) while August is far quieter (about 95% below a typical month); travellers from the United States should book early for February and can expect much easier availability and fewer crowds in August. Based on Klook historical booking data.

When is Shimotakai cheapest?

Find months that fit your budget. Prices in USD.

$200
$180
$160
$140
$120
$100
Avg $139 Cheapest $116 Priciest $189
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Activities are typically cheapest in July (around USD 116), roughly 39% below the priciest month in May; this aligns with the quiet August demand window, so July–August can offer both lower prices and lower crowds. Based on Klook booking data, July 2025 – June 2026.

How far ahead should you book?

Plan ahead so you don’t miss out

2 daysLast-minute
8 daysTypical
24 daysEarly

Most travellers from the United States book about 8 days ahead, with a minority booking as late as 2 days or as early as 24 days; during the February peak consider booking earlier than your typical lead time to secure availability. Based on Klook booking data, February 2026 – July 2026.

Quick facts about Shimotakai

General info
  • Time zone

    No time difference

  • Currency

    1USD = 153.57JPY

  • Official languages

What to know before visiting Shimotakai

Quick snapshot of Shimotakai County and what to expect

Shimotakai County draws most bookings for tours and outdoor & sports activities, with a year that peaks sharply in winter and eases off through late summer. Demand on Klook centers on guided experiences and active outdoor options, so the county rhythm is driven by seasonality rather than steady, year-round traffic.

Best times to visit and how prices move

Klook booking data show the busiest month is February, while activity tapers to its lowest demand in August. Prices, however, don’t exactly match demand: Klook’s cheapest month on record is typically July, and the priciest month is typically May, so the lowest demand month (August) is not the absolute cheapest. If you want lower prices and smaller crowds, consider July for generally lower rates and quieter conditions; if you want peak-season atmosphere and the busiest winter vibe, aim for February. Note that May can carry higher prices even though it isn’t the single busiest month.

Tips for travellers from the United States

Most travellers book around a week in advance, so plan activities roughly eight days out and book early for the busiest months like February. Last-minute options exist (many experiences are still bookable a couple of days ahead), so shorter, flexible itineraries work too. Use Klook to compare tour and outdoor activity options and lock in the ones you want before peak periods fill up.

FAQs about Shimotakai

When is the best time to visit Shimotakai County?

When is the cheapest time to visit Shimotakai County?

How far ahead should I book activities in Shimotakai County?

How much do activities in Shimotakai County typically cost?

What is Shimotakai County best known for on Klook?