TThe first day is a standard affair. Your guide will pick you up at the airport and assist you with preparations for the tour. A private coach will take you to your hotel in the heart of the city. After the check-in procedures are completed, you will have the rest of the day to yourselves.

The opening theme of this tour is “the magic of Tokyo.” Starting with a traditional attraction in Asakusa, visit a temple and catch the mysterious smoke of its incense burner, said to have healing powers. Enjoy an authentic Japanese lunch in Ginza, a constantly evolving area with impressive structures both old and new. Then take a fully automatic monorail to the futuristic Odaiba, and enjoy the bewitching seaside scenery of a hibernal afternoon.

The main highlight of the day is the incredible evening illumination in Tokyo Dome City. Every winter, you will see grand eruption of colors from thousands upon thousands of LED lights in this area. As the theme of the display is different each year, be prepared for a pleasant surprise as the sun sets on Tokyo. You will also enjoy an indoor hot spring bath to relieve your fatigue after a day of walking around.

Leaving Tokyo in the morning, you will take the famous bullet train to Nagano Prefecture. This mountainous region will be the stage of your winter adventure for the next three days. Enjoy a quick lunch of Shinshu soba, by far the most famous of Japanese buckwheat noodles. After that, you will be brought to the Jigokudani -- literally Hell’s Valley -- which is today’s main attraction.

You will be trekking into the valley to the Monkey Park. Along the way are spectacular views formed by the combination of the volcanic activity and heavy snowfall of this region. At the end of the walk is a curious wildlife situation, where Japanese Macaques soak themselves in onsen baths. Observe the monkeys as they blissfully enjoy nature’s luxury and play with each other. After the exciting excursion, you will be brought to your own hot spring accommodation in Nozawa Onsen.

It is time to enjoy skiing in Nozawa Onsen! This traditional village, located at the foot of Mt. Kenashi, is often credited for popularizing ski in Japan. Of course, there are other things you can do here outside of skiing, should you opt to explore the village. Try soaking in one of the soto-yu (public bath houses), which much like the rest of Nozawa Onsen have retained their traditional rustic appeal.

Open from 9 to 5, the ski resort is spacious and boasts scenic views and long runs. Under the tutelage of a top-notch ski instructor, anyone from novice to seasoned skiers can enjoy gliding down the snowy slopes. Your guide will assist you with procuring lift tickets, renting ski equipment, and general translating. After an active day, return to your ryokan for another stay.

It is time to return to Tokyo! Taking the bullet train once more, you will arrive in the capital city at around noon. For your last lunch on this spectacular winter adventure, you will have the freshest sushi in Tsukiji Fish Market. After the delightful meal, you will be brought to your hotel, which is located near your airport of choice. Prepare for your flight tomorrow, and enjoy your last night in Japan!

You have completed the Funky, Monkey, Fun Ski tour! We hope that you enjoyed your trip with ILJT! On the last day, you will check out of your hotel and conduct an independent transfer to the airport. Have a safe flight back home, and see you again soon!