Overview
Embark on a romantic and enchanting 2-day winter journey from Tokyo to the snowy landscapes of Tohoku, where nature, culture, and relaxation intertwine. This exclusive tour takes you to Ginzan Onsen, Japan’s most picturesque hot spring town, where snow-draped ryokans evoke a nostalgic Taisho-era charm. Witness the awe-inspiring Zao Snow Monsters, a natural masterpiece of ice-covered trees, and interact with adorable foxes at Zao Fox Village or step back in time at the historic Ouchi-juku (on Wednesdays). With a stay at the renowned Kameya ryokan in Naruko, featuring authentic Tohoku Kaiseki cuisine and rejuvenating hot springs, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Accompanied by a Chinese-speaking guide and comfortable round-trip bus transfers, it’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a magical winter escape.
Are you Visiting Japan soon?
Let us make your trip effortless. From tickets and hotels to transport and local guides, we arrange everything for you or your group. Whether it’s a music festival in Tokyo or a business conference in Osaka, our custom travel service ensures you enjoy the event stress-free.
Contact Jasumo Now →Why Choose This Tour?
- Romantic Winter Getaway: Immerse yourself in the fairytale-like beauty of Ginzan Onsen and the surreal Zao Snow Monsters.
- Hassle-Free Travel: Enjoy direct bus transfers from Tokyo, eliminating complicated transfers and winter driving challenges.
- Unique Experiences: Interact with foxes at Zao Fox Village or explore the Edo-period charm of Ouchi-juku (on Wednesdays).
- Luxurious Accommodation: Relax at Kameya ryokan in Naruko with rejuvenating hot springs and authentic Tohoku Kaiseki cuisine.
- Flexible Packages: Choose from early bird specials or inclusive options with ropeway and shuttle bus tickets for added convenience.
Highlights
- Ginzan Onsen: Stroll through Japan’s most beautiful hot spring town, with snow-covered ryokans and glowing gas lamps creating a nostalgic, Taisho-era atmosphere.
- Zao Snow Monsters: Ride the Zao Ropeway (or Zao Chuo Ropeway) to marvel at ice-covered pine trees, sculpted by nature into a surreal winter wonderland.
- Zao Fox Village (Except Wednesdays): Interact with silver and arctic foxes in a unique, natural setting, perfect for photos and memorable moments.
- Ouchi-juku (Wednesdays): Explore a preserved Edo-period post town with thatched-roof houses and local specialties like Takato Soba.
- Kameya Ryokan Stay: Relax in Naruko’s renowned hot springs, including the “Bijin-no-Yu” (Beautifying Bath), and savor a multi-course Kaiseki dinner.
- Convenient and Comfortable: Enjoy a Chinese-speaking guide, round-trip bus transfers, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary for a stress-free experience.
Package Options
1. [Early Bird Special] Departure from Meeting Point (Silver Mine Hot Spring Shuttle Bus Included)
- Includes round-trip bus transfers, Ginzan Onsen shuttle, and accommodation at Kameya ryokan with breakfast and dinner
- Price: ¥36,087 per person
2. [Early Bird Special] Departure from Meeting Point (Including Ropeway Ticket + Ginzan Onsen Shuttle Bus Ticket)
- Includes round-trip bus transfers, Ginzan Onsen shuttle, Zao Ropeway ticket, and accommodation at Kameya ryokan with breakfast and dinner
- Price: ¥40,829 per person
3. Departure from Meeting Point (Includes Cable Car Ticket + Ginzan Onsen Shuttle Bus Ticket)
- Same as the second early bird package, without the seasonal discount
- Price: ¥45,366 per person
Itinerary
Day 1
- 07:00 – Departure from Tokyo (exact meeting point confirmed via email)
- 14:00 – Ginzan Onsen (1 hour 30 minutes, self-guided)
- 16:30 – Check-in at Kameya ryokan in Naruko Onsen (self-guided stroll in Kokeshi Village)
- 18:00 – Dinner at Kameya ryokan (1 hour, Tohoku Kaiseki cuisine or bento box if delayed)
Day 2
- 07:30 – Breakfast at Kameya ryokan (30 minutes, self-guided)
- 08:00 – Depart from Kameya ryokan
- 10:00 – Zao Snow Monsters (2 hours, self-guided; Zao Ropeway or Zao Chuo Ropeway, ticket included in select packages)
- 14:00 – Zao Fox Village (1 hour, self-guided, admission not included: ¥1,500) or Ouchi-juku (1 hour, self-guided, on Wednesdays)
- 17:00 – Highway Service Area (brief rest stop)
- 20:30 – Return to Tokyo (Shinjuku West Exit)
What to Expect
Ginzan Onsen
Step into a Taisho-era dream at Ginzan Onsen, Japan’s most picturesque hot spring town. Snow-covered wooden ryokans line the river, illuminated by gas lamps at night, creating a romantic, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Japanese film. Enjoy free time to stroll the stone bridges, explore the charming streets, and relax in the soft, rejuvenating hot spring waters.
Kameya Ryokan (Naruko Onsen)
Stay at the renowned Kameya ryokan in Naruko, famous for its eight unique hot springs, including the “Bijin-no-Yu” (Beautifying Bath), known for its smooth, skin-soothing waters. Savor an authentic Tohoku Kaiseki dinner, featuring local flavors, or a bento box if delayed by transportation. Take a leisurely evening stroll through the tranquil “Kokeshi Village” to experience Naruko’s cultural charm.
Zao Snow Monsters
Ride the Zao Ropeway (or Zao Chuo Ropeway if inaccessible) to the Snow Monster Plateau Station, where thousands of pine trees are transformed into stunning ice sculptures by wind and snow. This natural “art palace” offers breathtaking views and a surreal winter experience. Ropeway tickets are included in select packages; otherwise, purchase on-site.
Zao Fox Village (Except Wednesdays)
Located near the Zao mountain range, Zao Fox Village is a unique zoo where you can interact with silver and arctic foxes in a natural setting. Observe their playful or lazy behaviors and enjoy a fun, photo-worthy experience. Admission is ¥1,500 (not included) and the village is closed on Wednesdays.
Ouchi-juku (Wednesdays)
On Wednesdays, when Zao Fox Village is closed, visit Ouchi-juku, a preserved Edo-period post town. Wander through historic streets lined with thatched-roof houses, taste local specialties like Takato Soba, and immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan.
Highway Service Area
A brief rest stop at a highway service area allows you to refresh before the return journey to Tokyo.
What’s Included
- Round-trip bus transfers from Tokyo to all attractions
- Ginzan Onsen shuttle bus ticket
- Accommodation at Kameya ryokan in Naruko Onsen (1 night)
- Tohoku Kaiseki dinner (or bento box if delayed) and breakfast at Kameya ryokan
- Zao Ropeway or Zao Chuo Ropeway ticket (select packages only)
- Chinese-speaking guide
Pre-Departure Notice
You will be contacted via email or phone between 17:00 and 21:00 the day before departure with detailed meeting point information. Check your spam folder if you don’t receive it. During peak season, emails may be slightly delayed; refer to the latest email if you receive multiple. If you don’t receive the information, arrive 10 minutes early at the designated meeting point and look for the JRT tour guide flag to inquire.
Note: If highways are closed or attractions are inaccessible due to weather or other circumstances, the itinerary may be adjusted, with Ouchi-juku replacing Zao Fox Village on Wednesdays. No refunds will be given for changes. Please arrive on time, as the tour will not wait for latecomers or allow midway joins.
Reviews
- “A romantic winter escape!” – “Ginzan Onsen was like a movie scene, especially at night. The Zao Snow Monsters were breathtaking, and the Kameya ryokan’s hot springs were so relaxing. Highly recommend!”
- “Loved the foxes and hot springs!” – “Zao Fox Village was adorable, and the Kaiseki dinner at Kameya was delicious. The guide was helpful, and the itinerary was well-paced.”
- “Ouchi-juku was a highlight!” – “We went on a Wednesday and loved Ouchi-juku’s historic charm. The snow monsters were incredible, but dress warmly for the ropeway!”
FAQs
Q: Are Zao Ropeway tickets included?
A: Ropeway tickets are included in the second and third package options. For the first package, tickets must be purchased on-site.
Q: Is Zao Fox Village admission included?
A: No, admission to Zao Fox Village (¥1,500) is not included and must be purchased on-site. The village is closed on Wednesdays, with Ouchi-juku visited instead.
Q: Are meals included?
A: Breakfast and dinner (Tohoku Kaiseki or bento box) are included at Kameya ryokan. Lunch is not included but can be purchased at Ginzan Onsen or Ouchi-juku.
Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: Yes, but it’s best suited for older children due to long bus rides and cold weather at Zao. The foxes and hot springs are family-friendly.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Warm winter clothing, non-slip shoes, and layers are essential, especially for the Zao Ropeway, where temperatures can be very cold.
Q: What if the Zao Ropeway is inaccessible?
A: If the Zao Ropeway is closed or has long wait times, the tour will use the Zao Chuo Ropeway instead, with any price difference refunded.
Q: Can I join the tour from outside Tokyo?
A: The meeting point is in Tokyo. Contact the tour operator when booking to inquire about alternative pick-up options.
Planning a Group Trip to Japan?
From corporate teams to friends traveling together, we create tailor-made travel packages. Enjoy VIP access, curated itineraries, and full support from our local experts. Tell us your plans, and we’ll handle the rest.
Contact Jasumo Now →
Leave a Reply