Yamanouchi

A land of hot springs and snow-capped mountains in northern Shinshu, home to the bathing snow monkeys, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, and historic onsen streets.

Yamanochi is located in northeastern Nagano Prefecture, with most of its area within Joshin'etsu-Kogen National Park, encompassing Shibu Onsen, Yudanaka Onsen, and the vast Shiga Kogen. Jigokudani Monkey Park is famous for its wild macaques that bathe in the hot springs during winter. Shiga Kogen and Mount Yokote form one of Japan's largest ski areas, which turns into a highland hiking destination in summer, featuring Onuma Pond and the Higashidateyama Alpine Botanical Garden. The SORA terrace atop Ryuoo Mountain offers views of the sea of clouds. Winter is for snow and skiing, while summer and autumn are perfect for escaping the heat and viewing autumn leaves. The gateway is Nagano Station, from where you can transfer to the Nagano Electric Railway to Yudanaka.

Destinations

• Yamanouchi

Itineraries

• Shinshu Snow Monkey, Onsen & Powder Snow – A winter route starting from Nagano to see the snow monkeys, staying in Shibu Onsen and Nozawa, and ending with skiing…
• Grand Kanto & Shinshu Loop – A loop from Tokyo covering Hakone, Mt. Fuji, Matsumoto, Kamikochi, the Snow Monkeys, Kusatsu, and Karuizawa.
• Tokyo, Hokuriku, Takayama & Kyoto Northern Route – Skip the Tokaido route and travel via Karuizawa, Nagano, Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, and Takayama to Kyoto.