The snow monkeys are one of the popular sites in Japan that many people don’t want to miss, but it seems like a lot of people are unsure of whether it’s possible as a day trip from Tokyo or not. I did it by bus tour, and it was really fun and easy! Here’s my fun day. :)

7:10 Meeting in Shinjuku Station

I met with the tour group at the West exit of Shinjuku Station.

Worried about complicated station exit? Don’t worry!

There are English signs everywhere. If you don’t feel comfortable finding it by yourself, there is also visitor center within the station with English speaking assistants!

The bus ride is really comfortable and the Japanese attendant was friendly. There were both foreign and local travelers enjoying the bus tour.

English speakers are given an iPad linked to a professional interpreter! It ‘s like having your own personal interpreter; very useful and much easier than you may think! :)

11:30 Viande Sakura Tei Shinshu Nakano 

After the long bus ride I was pretty hungry, so I was pleased when we stopped to have an amazing lunch that was included in the cost of the trip.

You can choose from Japanese style pork Shabu Shabu or Japanese Style Beef Sukiyaki to fill up your hunger! It was amazing, and also perfect for warming up during the winter! 

13:00 Kamibayashi 

From this beautiful spot where we get off it’s a 40 minute hike to Jigokudani Onsen!

The trail is surrounded with much nature and it is a great way to warm up in the cool winter weather!  It was very refreshing!  

13:40 Jigokudani Onsen

Finally we got to the famous Japanese monkeys enjoying the hot springs!

You might have a chance to see a mother monkey with babies!

Their faces are normally beige color but it turns red once they get into hot spring because it’s so warm! Monkeys were enjoying it just like humans. Oh, but please do not touch them even though they are so adorable because they are wild animals. :)

15:00 Kamibayashi 

We took the same trail back to the parking lot. It’s a really pleasant walk!

15:30 Service area near Shinshu Nakano 

We stopped at this really cool service area, although Japanese service areas, called "michi no eki," may be a little different than what you're used to.

They're basically places that showcase all of the local products of the area, which make them perfect for picking up souvenirs!

You can also of course use the restroom or grab a bite to eat.:)

19:30 Arrival at Shinjuku

Okaerinasai! (Welcome back!)

It is not too late to enjoy night life in Tokyo since Shinjuku is located in middle of Tokyo!

Either get take out and rest of night at hotel or go out to find out more about Tokyo!