Nagano Ski Buffet

What is your perfect idea of a ski trip to Japan this coming season? Well, read on we may have the perfect solution for you.

Greg and Lyndell owners of www.powderhounds.com (Advanced Skiers) – Australia – Feb/March 2024

This is the 3rd time we’ve been on a JPCT trip and undoubtedly it won’t be the last. The Nagano ski buffet is aptly named because we definitely got our fill of powder and feasted on a range of Japanese food, along with a smorgasbord of other experiences.
Whilst we do a lot of self-guiding around Japan, it was incredibly nice to have someone look after all the logistics and planning, and share powder stashes and other experiences so that we could get the most out of the area.
GUIDING
Jase and his team go above and beyond and they put 120% effort in. Even when we felt a little tired, it was easy to dig deep to try to match their fervour. Our trip was well into the season, yet they still had the energy to put lots of passion into enhancing the guest experience.
We had Naru as a guide one day who is a local telemarker. He knew the ski areas incredibly well, and added some nice Japanese insights and tips along the way. Jase guided us the rest of the time and did a great job. His quirky sense of humour was on fire and it was appropriate that he always flipped from being Mr fun guy to being incredibly serious when guiding to ensure safety aspects were covered. The guides and instructors worked well together in harmony and kept their communication tight. They also communicated well with the group via face to face announcements and WhatsApp messaging.
On one particular day, the strength of their guiding really came to the fore. It was a very stormy day and most lifts at Shiga were on wind hold. The guides started us in one zone where there were a couple of lifts running, then got us back in the bus to drive to somewhere further up the mountain where a couple of lifts had opened up, and later drove us back down. Lots of Shiga and Yudanaka folks didn’t even get out skiing that day due to the storm, yet we scored some phenomenal powder skiing thanks to the guides’ great familiarity with the ski areas, their ability to monitor lift operations and logistics, and having transport on hand.
SKIING
As you’d expect, we had a mix of snow experiences and it wasn’t all phenomenal deep powder and there was a little bit of scratching around on dust on crust as well. The stormy day was like heli skiing on-piste (see insta video) and the subsequent day was a powder buffet with fresh line after line. Hopefully the vimeo video sums up that we had a fab time! 
GROUP
Whilst there were lots of people on the bus to get to a ski area, it didn’t feel like a big group tour because not everyone was at the same hotel, and we divided up into small groups at the ski hill and for dinner.
The guides often switched people between groups if they were finding tight trees too challenging or the like. This highlighted that having a decent sized group with critical mass was a good thing because it enabled the guides to easily match people’s ability levels, speed and objectives, which is something we haven’t seen on very small group tours. We met some really great people on the tour that were kindred spirits.
YUDANAKA
We enjoyed staying in Yudanaka because it’s a real town and not one of those destination resorts where it feels like you could be in North America or Australia and not Japan. It was nice to wander around Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen and explore its temples, eateries and other nooks. The guides provided restaurant recommendations, and on nights when there wasn’t an organised dinner, there was the option of a bus drop service off to various restaurants. Whilst the hotel wasn’t in the absolute thick of Yudanaka restaurants, it was a pretty easy walk home.
HOTEL
We stayed at Hotel Omodaka which was very nice. It’s largely not a fancy ryokan, but you don’t expect luxury considering the price of the tour, and it’s good that people can stay in a tatami room to get the full Japanese experience. That being said, we stayed in a deluxe upgraded western/Japanese combo room that had 2 incredibly comfortable large twin beds plus a really large tatami area for sitting. There was also a luxe bathroom with an oversized shower and a bath.
The breakfast room was nice in that it had the Japanese aesthetics with tatami flooring and shoji screens, but it had high tables and chairs, so we didn’t need to get limbered up first thing in the morning to sit on the floor. Breakfast was adequate without being amazing. It was mostly Japanese type fare with miso soup, rice, frankfurters, omelette pieces, dim sims, pickles and a bit of salad. There were also rolls for toasting with jam to feel a fraction westernised, and of course the obligatory juice and coffee.
Dinner at the hotel one night was a highlight and we got our full Japanese experience by wearing our yukata and jacket, and sitting on the tatami floor. The meal wasn’t a super extravagant kaiseki meal that you’d find in a high end ryokan, but it certainly was a lovely feast and included lots of food items and a great chance to sample lots of different Japanese fare.
The onsen was also remarkable. The indoor onsen was good for a quick soak because it was mighty hot, whilst the outdoor onsen bath was the preferred option. One fine morning, the views from the onsen balcony were superb, looking across to Mt Myoko and other surrounding mountains.
OTHER EXPERIENCES
An evening was organised at Geisha Bar for karaoke, and it was plenty of fun even though none of us were particularly amazing at singing!
Sushi train night in Nakano was another organised activity, and even though the processes have changed since Covid, it was still fun to order lots of different plates and get them delivered by train to the table.
We also enjoyed some time in the historic town of Obuse and sampled sake, chestnut oyaki, and visited the Hokusai art museum and the Gansho-in temple with its Hokusai phoenix painting on the ceiling, which wasn’t quite in the same league as the Sistine Chapel but enjoyable nonetheless.
Overall we had a great time, and would recommend this trip to anyone who wants a buffet of food, powder and an experience far away from the curated resorts. You’ll be a good fit for the trip if you don’t take life too seriously, have a good sense of humour, a sense of adventure, and don’t need to party hard. The vibe was to ski hard, enjoy an onsen, have dinner and retire for the evening. Perfect!
See our video here

Tour info

Just like a great buffet, this tour is all about variety. Over eight days, you'll sample an incredible range of ski resorts across the Nagano prefecture—each one offering something different, and each chosen for its conditions on the day. At the heart of the experience are three things: deep powder, immersive Japanese culture, and flexible exploration designed for riders who want more than just another ski holiday.

This tour is designed for advanced snowboarders who want to chase fresh lines and dive into the “slack country” terrain between resort runs—untouched zones that many visitors never see. But it’s about more than the riding. The Nagano Snowboard Buffet is built around adventure, personality, authentic Japanese hospitality, and a commitment to experiences you simply won’t find on the average tour.

We also believe where you stay matters, which is why we only partner with locally run, quality accommodations—so when you’re comparing tours, make sure it’s apples to apples.

Cultural Highlights Include:

·      A close-up visit to the world-famous snow monkeys

·      A traditional Geisha performance, rich with history and grace

·      An immersive Taiko Drum, Shamisen Guitar, and Lion Dance show

·      A chance to participate in a Karate demonstration

·      A wildly entertaining magic and comedy show with Fred, a veteran magician of over 30 years—you’ll laugh harder than you thought possible

·      A night of shared laughs over sushi train dinner, followed by an unforgettable round of karaoke

·      Soaks in rejuvenating onsens, sips of local sake and craft beer, and strolls through historic Shibu Onsen town

Need a breather? Our optional self-guided rest day adventures include cultural gems like Obuse Town, Zenkoji Temple, and the 1998 Winter Olympic Museum.

Where many companies treat cultural elements as add-ons, we’ve built them into the experience—included, not extra, and blended with a few surprises we’ll keep up our sleeve until you arrive.

If you’re someone who prefers riding untracked powder all day—without crowds, without queues, and without compromise—this tour is built for you.

Enquire now—spaces fill fast. Pressed for time? Check out our condensed Nagano Powder Chasers and Nagano Powder Zone trips for a shorter hit of deep snow and culture.

Rates & Inclusions

Accommodation

• 9 nights in twin, triple, or quad-share rooms (Japanese or Western style)

• Single supplement available at each property

• Deluxe room upgrades offered at Hotel Omodaka

Meals & Dining

• Daily breakfasts

• 2 in-house dinners

• Optional dinner upgrade: traditional multi-course meals at partner properties

Skiing & Instruction

• 8 full days of guided skiing or snowboarding

• Qualified ski guide/instructor (maximum 1:6 guest-to-instructor ratio)

• 8 daily lift passes

• Mountain transport to the best snow conditions each day

Cultural Experiences

• Transport to the Snow Monkey Park (early access for guests at Yumoto and Omodaka)

• Evening performance with a second-generation Geisha

• Magic and comedy show (interactive)

• Interactive performances featuring Karate, Taiko drumming, Shamisen guitar, and Lion dance

Relaxation & Extras

• Daily access to rejuvenating onsens (including sauna at Hotel Omodaka)

• Private outdoor onsen and sauna rental: ¥10,000 per session (ideal for couples or small groups)

• Optional karaoke night

• Option to take a rest day, with access to one of our self-guided cultural excursions:

• Snow Monkeys & Shibu Onsen

• Obuse town & Hokusai Gallery

• Zenkoji Temple & 1998 Olympic Museum

• Plus: plenty of hidden gems we’ll introduce along the way

Optional Add-Ons

• Avalanche safety gear rental: ¥3,000/day (includes beacon, probe, shovel, pack)

• Full ski & snowboard rental store: Includes clothing, helmets, goggles, boots, poles, carving and powder skis/boards (rates on request)

• Single supplement:

• Snow Monkey Lodge: ¥27,000

• Hotel Omodaka: ¥63,000

• Deluxe Western room upgrade at Hotel Omodaka: ¥81,000 per person

• Additional nights or private guiding: Please inquire

What’s Not Included

• Flights

• Travel to/from Yudanaka

• Travel insurance (required)

• Lunches, snacks, alcohol

• Dinners (except the two specified)

Resorts

This tour gives you access to a curated selection of ski resorts across Nagano Prefecture, chosen specifically for their snow quality, quantity, and quietness—the core pillars of our riding philosophy.

Each day’s destination is determined by the weather and snow conditions, with the goal of delivering the best experience possible. Thanks to Nagano’s network of microclimates, don’t be surprised if we return to the same resort more than once—it just means the conditions there are unbeatable that day.

Transportation is provided by our private buses or vans, with groups mixed as needed to fill vehicles efficiently and keep things flexible.

Resorts we may ride include:

·       Oku Shiga Kogen, Yakebitaiyama, Ichinose, Giant, Yokote, and Kumanoyu (all part of Asia’s largest ski area, Shiga Kogen)

·       Madarao and Tangram, known for their accessible tree runs

·       The powder pockets of Togakushi

·       And the historic slopes of Nozawa Onsen

Drive times range from 25 to 50 minutes, depending on the destination and road conditions.

Accommodation

Ryokan Yumoto (Deluxe)

We’re incredibly honoured to work with Ryokan Yumoto, the oldest inn in the region, with a heritage stretching back over 300 years. Now passed down to the 13th generation of family ownership, the ryokan’s story is woven into the rich history of Yudanaka Onsen itself—an area that’s been welcoming visitors for over 1,300 years. This is where samurai once came to bathe after battle, and where pilgrims, priests, and artists would pause on their journey toward Nagano.

Yumoto is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Guests are instantly charmed by Yasuyo, your gracious host, whose warmth and gentle presence elevate every stay. The property radiates character, with spacious Japanese-style guest rooms that overlook a serene garden beside the hot springs. While not extravagantly built, the ryokan’s simplicity and craftsmanship speak for themselves.

Room Types

Yumoto offers just five rooms, keeping the atmosphere intimate and quiet:

Japanese-Western Room: 2 Western beds + 8 tatami mats

Standard Japanese Rooms: 14.5 tatami mats

Family Japanese Room: 18 tatami mats

Each room includes a private toilet, with bathing enjoyed in the traditional shared onsen house. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, kettle, and Wi-Fi throughout. You’ll also find a traditional yukata robe in your wardrobe—optional, but perfect for relaxing after a powder day.

Dining

Evenings at Yumoto are a highlight. You'll enjoy a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner, thoughtfully prepared and served in the ryokan’s dining room by your private waiter. Breakfasts, also included, are equally memorable—difficult to describe, but impossible to forget.

Location & Extras

Yumoto is within walking distance of quality restaurants, the local Lawson convenience store, and Yudanaka Station. The ryokan provides:

·      Free pickup and drop-off at the train station

·      Early shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park

Hotel Omodaka (Premium)

Perched in the heart of Yudanaka Onsen, Hotel Omodaka has long been cherished for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views of the Five Mountains of Hokushin, and genuine hospitality. Run by a wonderful local family, the hotel offers guests an authentic, relaxing Japanese hot spring experience that feels like home.

Rooms & Amenities

The rooms at Omodaka are more spacious than most in the area and lean toward traditional Japanese style. Twin, triple, and quad-share rooms feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, and a private ensuite bathroom. Single supplement rooms include a private toilet, with bathing available in the shared onsen facilities. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, and kettle, as well as a traditional yukata robe—not required, but perfect for lounging after a day in the snow.

Looking for extra space? The Deluxe Western Rooms are nearly double the size of our standard rooms, featuring two Western beds plus two futons to comfortably accommodate up to four people (available at an additional cost).

Hot Springs & Facilities

The hotel boasts both an indoor Japanese bathhouse (onsen) and a scenic outdoor hot spring (rotenburo), plus an on-site sauna—a rare luxury in Yudanaka. While there are no laundry facilities on-site, a public laundromat is conveniently located just a short walk away.

Dining

Dinner is a highlight at Omodaka, with a multi-course traditional Japanese meal served in the dining room. Breakfast is also included and features a buffet-style spread with a mix of Western and Japanese options.

Extras

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

·      Massage services nearby

·      Karaoke bar and a table tennis room for evening entertainment

·      River Cafe serving what many call the best burgers in Japan—ideal if you’re craving a break from Japanese cuisine

·      Vending machines and a souvenir shop on-site

Getting Around

Hotel Omodaka provides complimentary pickup and drop-off at Yudanaka Station. They also offer early-morning shuttle service to the Snow Monkey Park—a 20-minute head start on the crowds, giving you a quieter, more immersive experience before the rush begins.

Snow Monkey Lodge (Economy)

Just 200 metres from Yudanaka Station, Snow Monkey Lodge has become something of a local icon. With its vibrant murals and eclectic artwork adorning the walls, the lodge radiates personality and creativity, offering travellers a unique, budget-friendly base without compromising on atmosphere or comfort.

Recently renovated, the property blends traditional ryokan-style accommodation with modern conveniences. Rooms feature tatami mat flooring, Western-style beds, and traditional yukata robes—perfect for throwing on after a day in the snow.

Facilities & Experience

·      Separate gendered onsens for men and women offer a classic Japanese bathing experience

·      Downstairs Bar (The Bunker)

·      For something more private, book our outdoor onsen and sauna retreat, located just 50 metres from the main building—great for couples or small groups. Enquire at reception.

·      A fully equipped communal kitchen and dining space for those who prefer to self-cater

·      Continental breakfast included daily (cereals, fresh fruit, toast, hot and cold drinks)

 Dining

The included dinners are hosted at Hotel Omodaka, where you’ll enjoy an elegant multi-course Japanese meal, served in the hotel’s dining room. Breakfast is continental style, toast, cereal, coffee and tea.

Additional Perks

·      Free Wi-Fi throughout the lodge

·      Access to nearby massage services

·      Close to restaurants, convenience stores, and public laundry

 While we don’t offer a pickup service, the lodge is just a short walk from the station and we’re happy to help arrange a taxi if needed

 Snow Monkey Lodge isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a place to connect, unwind, and immerse yourself in the quirky, welcoming energy of Yudanaka.

Yudanaka Township and Restaurants

 Sitting 600 metres above sea level, Yudanaka is a central hub for exploring many of Nagano’s surrounding ski resorts. But this mountain town offers much more than just snow access—it’s steeped in centuries of culture and wellness.

With a history stretching back over 1,300 years, Yudanaka is famous for its healing onsen (natural hot springs). Legend has it that a monk first discovered the therapeutic waters here, drawing samurai warriors to the region to recover after battle. That spirit of restoration still lives on in the town’s steaming baths and peaceful atmosphere.

One of Yudanaka’s most iconic residents? The world-famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani, who have learned to soak in the warm onsen pools through the cold winter months. While the monkeys draw crowds by day, the evenings are quiet—many visitors come just for a day trip, so when the sun sets, you’ll often have the town’s restaurants and streets largely to yourself.

Food lovers are in for a treat. Yudanaka boasts a broad selection of traditional eateries serving local and seasonal produce. In recent years, the dining scene has expanded to include more variety, with new spots blending Japanese and Western flavours to suit every palate.

Just a short stroll away is historic Shibu Onsen, a beautifully preserved district said to have inspired the setting for Spirited Away. With its narrow alleys, quaint shops, temples, foot baths, and authentic wooden architecture, a walk through this timeless village is like stepping into a different era.

Terrain and Safety

 Skiing and snowboarding in Japan can be a very different experience compared to Western resorts—especially when it comes to riding off the marked trails. At many Japanese resorts, trail skiing is the norm, and anything beyond the designated runs is considered out of bounds.

These areas are not patrolled, and resorts take a hands-off approach—meaning if you venture beyond the ropes, you’re doing so entirely at your own risk.

The off-piste terrain we explore is often referred to by visiting Westerners as “slack country” or “side country.” Typically, these zones sit between two marked trails, and your run will usually end by linking back up with a groomed course that returns you to the lifts—hence the term “slack country.”

That said, rules vary widely between resorts. Some are more relaxed, posting signs like “Ski at your own risk,” while others are far stricter and may prohibit off-piste riding altogether. Regardless of resort policy, we treat any terrain outside the marked trails as out of bounds, and that means:

You must be a competent, confident rider able to handle ungroomed conditions

You must carry appropriate avalanche safety equipment

If you don’t have your own gear, we offer rental kits—including beacon, shovel, probe, and pack—for ¥3,000 per day.

Before heading out, all guests riding off-piste will receive an intro to avalanche gear usage.

Our approach is built around three core principles:

·      Safety first

·      Fun second

·      Improvement third

And make no mistake—safety is non-negotiable.

Flexible Itinerary

 While this itinerary offers a general outline, we remain fully adaptable throughout the tour. Each day is shaped by weather, snow conditions, and where the powder is falling best. We’ll choose resorts based on the most promising conditions—so you get the most out of every moment on the mountain.

One of the biggest advantages of a Japan Powder Culture Tours trip is our independence. We’re not tied to any one resort, which gives us the freedom to design each day around the group’s goals and the best snow available.

Evening highlights—such as Geisha performances, Taiko drumming, Karate demonstrations, and magic shows—are included in the 10-day experience. However, the exact nights these occur may shift slightly depending on availability and scheduling.

Day 1 – Arrival in Yudanaka

 Arrive via Japan’s world-class train system or pre-arranged shuttles from Narita or Haneda airports. We’ll pick you up at Yudanaka Station or your designated shuttle drop-off (please let us know your arrival details at least one day in advance).

Check in to your traditional ryokan-style accommodation, where warm hospitality, stunning surroundings, and locally inspired cuisine set the tone. While we don’t include a group dinner on this night (to accommodate varied arrivals), we’ll head out to a local sushi train restaurant or one of Yudanaka’s standout eateries for a relaxed first night.

Day 2 – Shiga Kogen & Geisha Night

 Welcome to Shiga Kogen, the birthplace of skiing in Japan and Asia’s largest ski area, offering 18 interlinked resorts and Japan’s highest lift access at 2,307m. The scale, elevation, and lack of crowds mean you can still find untouched lines days after a storm.

After your first epic day, soothe your legs in an onsen and unwind with a drink. Tonight's dinner is in-house, followed by an unforgettable performance by a second-generation Geisha—a rare and intimate cultural experience.

Day 3 – Madarao (Madapow) + Okonomiyaki Dinner Option

 Today we head to Madarao, a hidden gem with its own snow-laden microclimate. Known for its accessible tree lines and playful terrain, it delivers in both powder and personality. On the way home, we’ll stop at a local Okonomiyaki restaurant—a savoury pancake specialty from Osaka and Hiroshima—for a well-earned meal.

Day 4 – Nozawa Onsen or Cultural Rest Day

 If conditions align, we visit Nozawa Onsen, a resort steeped in charm and tradition with 50km of skiable terrain and a lively town full of shops and snacks. It's more popular than other spots we visit, so we aim to time our arrival to avoid queues and find fresh lines.

Not feeling up for riding? Today is also a great day to take a cultural rest day—with self-guided options that include the Snow Monkey Park, historic Shibu Onsen, and more.

Day 5 – Shiga Kogen (Round 2) & Magic Show

 Back to “Old Faithful”—Shiga Kogen—for deeper exploration of its vast terrain. Tonight, we dine out locally, then settle in for a hilarious and mind-bending magic and comedy show by Fred, a 30+ year veteran magician who’s as entertaining as he is unpredictable.

Day 6 – Togakushi Ski + Shrine Walk

 Today we ride at Togakushi, home to towering cedar trees and the legendary Okusha Shrine. After riding, take a peaceful walk to the shrine nestled at the base of Mt. Togakushi—just be sure to bring proper shoes. Dinner tonight is at your leisure with new friends.

Day 7 – Shiga Kogen (Yokoteyama) & Cultural Finale

 One last return to Shiga—this time to Yokoteyama, the highest lift-served peak in Japan. On clear days, you’ll be treated to 360° views of the Nagano prefecture—and even Mt. Fuji.

Tonight’s in-house dinner is followed by a full cultural finale: an interactive karate session with a Grand Master, plus a live Taiko drum, shamisen, and lion dance performance—a true celebration of Japanese tradition.

Day 8 – Madarao + Tangram & Karaoke Night

 We head back to Madarao, and if conditions allow, link across to the adjoining Tangram resort for fresh terrain and deep snow. After dinner, it’s time to go out in style with our legendary karaoke night—sing your heart out or cheer on your new crew.

Day 9 – Final Powder Day

 Like déjà vu in the best way: we chase the best snow at one of the resorts you've come to know and love. Whether it’s Shiga, Madarao, Nozawa, or Togakushi, we’ll pick the place where conditions are prime and end on a high.

Day 10 – Departure & Snow Monkey Farewell

 Time to say goodbye to your hosts and newfound mountain family. But before you leave, there’s one last treat: a visit to the iconic Snow Monkey Park, where wild macaques bathe in natural onsens. Our properties offer early drop-offs to beat the tourist rush—because this is something you want to see without the crowds.

Self-Guided Cultural Excursions

 Whether you’ve got a scheduled rest day or your legs are telling you it’s time to take it easy, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to explore our region beyond the slopes. The Yudanaka area is steeped in culture, history, and charm—offering a side of Japan that’s as enriching as the snow is deep.

At Japan Powder Culture Tours, we believe these experiences are one-of-a-kind and can’t be replicated at other ski destinations. We’ll provide you with maps, train timetables, and guidance to make these adventures easy and stress-free. Each option below is a full-day outing, but you’re welcome to mix and match the timing to suit your pace.

Option 1: Snow Monkeys – Shibu Onsen – Obuse Town

 8:30 AM – Depart from accommodation via complimentary shuttle to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Take a serene forest walk to the viewing area, then stop at Enza Café for a warm drink and snack.

 Stroll downhill through Shibu Onsen, a 1,300-year-old hot spring town once visited by samurai for post-battle healing. Explore its narrow lanes, the Sake Museum, and the nearby world’s tallest bronze Buddha statue.

12:31 PM – Catch the local train to Obuse (arrives 12:53), then take a short walk into the historic town centre. Visit the renowned Hokusai Museum and enjoy the peaceful, artistic vibe of this beautifully preserved town.

 5:11 PM – Return to Yudanaka Station via train (arrive 5:33 PM).

Option 2: Snow Monkeys – Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple (Nagano)

 8:30 AM – Shuttle from accommodation to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. After your visit, enjoy a coffee break at Enza Café.

10:20 AM – Pickup from the park trailhead and transfer to the station. 10:50 AM – Take the train to Obuse (arrive 11:12 AM), explore the town, visit the Hokusai Museum, and enjoy lunch at one of its many excellent restaurants.

 1:55 PM – Take the train to Nagano Station (arrive 2:30 PM). From the west exit, catch the Zenkoji bus to the iconic Zenkoji Temple—one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Do the underground chamber walk to find the "gate to eternity" and reflect in the mirror as part of the spiritual tradition.

Walk back toward the station through streets lined with charming shops and cafés.

Choose your return:

 6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or stay for dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train

Option 3: Obuse Town – Zenkoji Temple & Olympic Museum (Nagano)

 8:39 AM – Depart Yudanaka by train, arriving in Obuse at 9:14 AM. Visit the Hokusai Museum, stroll through the old streets, and enjoy the morning at your own pace.

 11:12 AM or 11:56 AM – Take the express train to Nagano (arrive either 11:36 AM or 12:30 PM). Lunch options include the Midori food complex inside the station or nearby local restaurants.

 From the west exit, catch the bus to Zenkoji Temple. Explore the grounds, tour the underground chamber, and visit the Zenkoji Museum tucked behind the main temple.

If time allows, grab a taxi to M-Wave Arena, home of the 1998 Winter Olympic speed skating venue. The Olympic Museum inside is a must for sports history fans—and the arena’s suspended timber ceiling is the largest of its kind in the world.

 Return options: 6:00 PM express train to Yudanaka

Or have dinner in Nagano and return on the 7:40 PM train (arrives 8:29 PM)

Our authentic Japanese ski tours from the guests perspective

9 night - 8 day guided ski tour in Nagano

Advanced Skiers

5% Off tours booked before 31st July 2025

guided Tour Cost

Deluxe Ryokan Yumoto

¥549,000 pp twin share

¥539,000 pp triple/quad share

Premium Hotel Omodaka

¥499,000 pp twin share

¥489,000 pp triple/quad share

(Single occupancy upgrade ¥63,000. Upgrade to single deluxe western room ¥81,000 per person)

Economy Snow Monkey Lodge

¥449,000 pp twin share

¥439,000 pp triple/quad share

(Single occupancy upgrade ¥27,000)

guided Tour Dates

17th to 26th Dec 2025 AVAILABLE

25th Dec to 3rd Jan 2026 (holiday rates apply) AVAILABLE

4th to 13th Jan 2026 AVAILABLE

14th to 23rd Jan 2026 AVAILABLE

24th Jan to 2nd Feb 2026 AVAILABLE

3rd to 12th Feb 2026 AVAILABLE

13th to 22nd Feb 2026 AVAILABLE

23rd Feb to 4th March 2026 AVAILABLE

5th to 14th March 2026 AVAILABLE

(please enquire for tours between 15th March and 15th April 2025 and over this period the cultural evenings are based around a minimum of 8 guests so if we do not attain that number the events do not proceed and the cost is refunded to guests)

Click here for a full pdf pack which includes tour details, FAQ's, pre trip information, reviews, terms and conditions and customer information spreadsheet.

Old Faithful POW Day