Onsen-bathing snow monkeys of Nagano
Nagano, Chubu, Japan[2.6 miles]
See the world-famous, red-faced Japanese macaques blissfully soaking in natural hot-spring baths, then try it yourself in a traditional onsen.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Best places to stay:
Shiba Onsen is famed for its hit springs, and this traditional ryokan is in the middle of them all.
The simple but clean rooms come with the classic tatami mat floors and traditional futon bedding, but also some mod-cons: TVs, minibars and tea/coffee makers.
There are two restaurants on-site serving locally-inspired cuisine, but no kaiseki-ryori dinners.
The hotel has its own spa and hot-spring baths, but staying here, or at any of Shibu Onsen’s inns, also gives access to the nine public baths scattered around town – guests get a master key that unlocks them all. A free shuttle from Yudanaka Station is available upon request. Just ask the kimono-clad staff.
The inn is also close to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, home of the world-famous, onsen-bathing red-faced snow monkeys, so you can tick off two bucket list experiences in one.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Nagano, Chubu, Japan[2.6 miles]
See the world-famous, red-faced Japanese macaques blissfully soaking in natural hot-spring baths, then try it yourself in a traditional onsen.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan
Japan oozes tradition and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in it than a night at a ryokan, a traditional inn.
Best for ages: 18+ | £0 | 1 night
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Nagano, Chubu, Japan[23.3 miles]
This 7th century Buddhist temple – rebuilt in 1707 – is one of the most famous and popular in Japan. It’s been a central part of Nagano’s life and history – the city grew up around it. The complex includes the Zenjoki History Museum, full of Buddha statues and Buddhist memorabilia. Open daily.
Best for ages: 13+ | £5
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Kanto, Japan
A dizzying mixture of old ways and modern style, crowds and calm, and arguably the best food scene on the planet.