SEARCH RESULTS: 2024
Best Spring Spots & Tours Near Kanazawa
As the snow melts in the Hokuriku region, the already beautiful winter landscapes reveal the refreshing green trees and grasses of the mountains. The plum blossoms give way to cherry blossoms followed by the light greens of all the new tree growth. In the cities of Kanazawa, Toyama and Fukui, the flowers and trees are as beautiful or even more so than the big cities of Tokyo or Osaka, with much less crowding. Kanazawa is a great base to explore the region. The traditional tea houses and modern nightlife district makes it a great city to spend a few days. In spring the city comes alive with plum and cherry […]
Winter Escapes: Nagoya’s 7 Best Spots for Snow and Winter Activities
Winter is, in our opinion, one of the best seasons to visit Japan. Snow blankets much of the country providing a romantic backdrop to seasonal adventures like skiing, snowboarding, relaxing in steaming hot springs, or strolling through streets decorated in festive lights. Though the city of Nagoya itself does not receive much snow, many of the regions surrounding Nagoya transform into snowy wonderlands brimming with charm and adventure. This makes Nagoya a convenient location to stay while still offering an array of winter escapes. If you’re looking to embrace the season in all its splendor, here are seven of our favorite winter destinations to explore around Nagoya: — Shirakawa-go — […]
Best Tours to See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
There is no doubt that the Cherry Blossom Season is one of the most magical times in Japan. Heralding the long awaited Spring, the blossoms of pink and white burst into life and cover Japan’s cities, parks, and mountains in a beautiful tapestry of floral color. For locals, this means it is time to head outside, spread out a picnic blanket, and enjoy the scenery accompanied by friends, family, and good food. If you find yourself in Japan during this season, it would be a waste to not go out yourself and enjoy the cherry blossoms, known as ‘Sakura’ in Japanese. However, the blossoms do not bloom at the same […]
The Takayama Travel Guide
Located in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a town that weaves together history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant festivals, Takayama offers visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the essence of old Japan. The town’s historic old town, with its charming wooden merchant houses and sake breweries, reflects a bygone era where tradition and craftsmanship flourished. Meanwhile, Takayama’s serene temples, hidden shrines, and peaceful riversides provide tranquil spots to pause and reflect amid the region’s stunning mountain scenery. Beyond its historical allure, Takayama is a destination for all types of travelers. Whether you are an […]
6 Stunning Spots for Autumn Leaves Near Nagoya
Autumn in Japan is a spectacle of vibrant foliage, typically peaking between mid-November and early-December in the Tokai region around Nagoya. For outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and those looking to enjoy the beauty of the season, Nagoya and the surrounding areas offer an array of stunning destinations. Here is our list of the best places to see autumn leaves near Nagoya: — Tokugawa Garden — Korankei Gorge — Nakasendo Trail — Great Buddha of Shurakuen — Kamikochi — Kiso Valley 1) Tokugawa Garden / Best viewing time: Mid-Nov–early Dec For a taste of tranquility without leaving Nagoya, the Tokugawa Garden is a splendid choice. This historic garden is a beautiful […]
Best Trails in Nagano
With seventy percent of its land mass covered by mountainous terrain, Japan is at its heart – both geographically and spiritually – a country of mountains. Inspiring awe and hinting at the sublime, the high mountain peaks have long been considered the domains of gods and spirits, and inspired a unique appreciation for the natural world and Japan itself. Boasting five of Japan’s ten highest mountains and many peaks over 3000 meters, dramatic ranges and volcanoes, and some of the country’s most iconic alpine landscapes, Nagano is blessed with countless trails and hiking courses suitable for all levels of fitness – from relaxing strolls through undulating hills to multi-day mountain […]
Offers & Deals in Nagano
As our name implies, Snow Monkey Resorts started in Nagano. And even though we have expanded nationwide, it is still our home region, with its bathing monkeys, soaring mountains, and deep forests. As one of the largest and most wild prefectures in Japan, and with so much to do, it would be impossible to see everything on one vacation – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! — Winter Deals in Nagano — Green Season Deals in Nagano — Connectable Day Tours and Deals in Nagano and Other Regions — Hotels Around Nagano — Private Charters To/From Nagano On this page you will find the latest deals and offers in […]
Best Tours to See Autumn Leaves in Japan
The autumn leaves of Japan are some of the best in the world, and draw visitors both domestic and international to explore the country’s parks, gardens and mountains in hopes of finding the brightest colored leaves of the season. While it is hard to avoid fall colors if you come between the months of October and December (Japan is a nation of forests after all!), not all destinations are equal when it comes to the quality and color of their leaves. It is thus greatly beneficial on your trip to make sure that you can see the right places at the right time to make the most of natures blessings. […]
Journey Off the Beaten Path in Takayama
Venture Beyond the Usual and Uncover the Secret Side of Hida While Takayama is famed for its well-known attractions like the old town and Shirakawa-go, there is so much more waiting to be discovered beyond the typical tourist trail. From tranquil mountain villages and serene temples to ancient crafts and unique cultural sites, the Hida region offers countless opportunities to step away from the usual tourist spots and delve deeper into the true heart of Japan. Here, you can escape the crowds and be closer to the culture, history, and untouched natural beauty that make this region so unique. Take a journey to Gujo Hachiman, a charming town nestled in […]