1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soni Highlands Eco-Adventure & Giant Salamanders

Take an unforgettable journey into one of Japan’s most stunning and ecologically diverse regions. Not only will you discover the majestic, natural beauty of Central Japan and the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation of this exceptional landscape—ensuring that it remains a safe haven for wildlife and future explorers alike. This adventure, led by an experienced, English speaking guide from Nagoya, is designed for travelers seeking an authentic and eco-conscious experience, with a deep focus on preserving the environment for generations to come.

*As lunch options are limited, we highly recommend purchasing a bento box or other food items before the tour starts, and bringing them with you. Time will be allotted to eat while on the tour.

Highlights

• Enjoy two stunning guided hikes through the Akame 48 Waterfalls and Soni Highlands.
• Learn about the unique ecology, flora, and fauna of the region.
• Witness rare wildlife, including the Japanese Giant Salamander.

*For those looking to join the tour from Tokyo, please see the FAQ Section below

Description

This tour will start at Nagoya Station at 9:00 A.M., where your guide will meet you in front of the Silver Clock tower near the Shinkansen Gates. 

You will have the opportunity to put your belongings in a coin locker at the station if you feel the need. Your guide will provide you with a brief history of the region and set the scene as we depart from Nagoya Station to our first destination, the Akame Valley of the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park. 

As our drive to the park is quite long, we will be stopping at a service station where you can purchase snacks to enjoy on the bus. However, as food options are limited, you may wish to purchase a bento box or other food items before the tour starts and bring them with you. Time will be allotted to eat while on the bus.

Your guide will lead you on a hike along the renowned Akame 48 Waterfalls trail—a 4-kilometer path through lush forest, past crystal-clear streams, and captivating waterfalls.

The valley is home to a number of rare and threatened plants and animals which your guide will point out along the way. Perhaps the most impressive species to call this region home is the Japanese Giant Salamander, one of the world’s largest amphibians. This gentle giant is a protected species and listed as a Natural Treasure of Japan. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to see these giant salamanders swimming in the river during your hike. But we will be visiting the Japan Salamander Center at the head of the trail—ensuring that you will be able to view these curious creatures for yourself.

Leaving the valley, we’ll continue our adventure to the majestic Soni Highlands, where vast fields of Japanese pampas grass sway in the wind against the backdrop of Mt. Kuroso—one of Japan’s 300 famous mountains. This 40-hectare grassland is not only a stunning sight but also a vital part of the local ecosystem. Each year, the grasses are carefully managed through controlled burns to preserve the land and maintain its balance.

As we walk along a winding walking trail though the highlands, you’ll be able to capture stunning views of the surrounding valley. Your guide will, of course, be on hand to take pictures of you to make your friends and family back home jealous of your time in Japan.

We’ll wrap up our day by returning to Nagoya Station, where your guide will say their goodbyes. The tour will conclude around 18:30 PM. Feel free to ask the guide for dinner recommendations or instructions back to your hotel.

A portion of your tour fee is dedicated to supporting ongoing conservation efforts in the Akame Valley. These funds help maintain the trail systems, preserve wildlife habitats, and ensure the continued protection of the species, like the Japanese Giant Salamander, that call this region home.

TOUR MEETUP POINT

NAGOYA STATION @ 9:00 A.M.

The meetup point is at the base of the SILVER clock tower outside of the Shinkansen gates. 

If you are arriving via Shinkansen, the clock tower should be located directly in front of you as you exit the gate.

If you are arriving via a JR line, please look for signs directing you towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit.

For those coming from outside the station, you will most likely be entering through the Sakura-Dori gate (the side with the gold clock). In this case, please walk straight through the station towards the Taiko-Dori Gate. The silver clock is located inside the station just before the Taiko-Dori exit.

You may wait nearby there until the tour begins at 9:00 A.M. Be sure to look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign. We highly recommend arriving early as Nagoya station can be quite crowded. 

NOTES

Included

• English speaking guide
• Transportation during the tour
• Omikuji (lucky fortune) at Futami-Okitama Shrine
• Entry fees at all tour locations

Excluded

• Lunch
• Accommodation
• Transportation to/from Nagoya Station

Other Information

• This tour involves several hours of walking outdoors. We recommend that you wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in. Please check the weather forecast before you head to the meetup point and prepare an umbrella or raincoat if necessary.
• In the summer, temperature highs are around 35 °C (95 °F) and above with extreme humidity. We recommend wearing something light and airy while minding sunburn and heatstroke. A parasol is highly encouraged.
• Winter temperatures average between 0℃-10℃ (32°F-50°F). Please wear warm clothing and footwear appropriate for cold conditions.
• As lunch options are limited, we highly recommend purchasing a bento box or other food items before the tour starts, and bringing them with you. Time will be allotted to eat while on the tour.