Bullet Trains, Snow Monkeys, and Sulphur Baths - Nagano and Togura
28th to 29th October 2016
We left Tokyo on the shinkansen (bullet train) to get to Nagano. The train was an experience in itself. You hardly even feel like you're moving as this rapid form of transport rockets from one city to another.
We took the train so that we could visit Nagano, home to the famous Snow Monkeys. We had heard that - due to mating season - we might not see any. However we weren't to be put off, and we set out through the picturesque national park that surrounds their home.
When we got to the monkey park, we were so glad we had made the trip. Not only could we see some monkeys, but they were out in force!
There were so many of these crazy monkeys, who make their home beside an onsen (a natural hot spring). They were clambering up rocks and over fences, lounging in their own personal hot tub, and generally just taking it easy.
I loved how they moved around us humans like we were just trees in their way. We were of zero interest to them, so they happily went about their business. Although, apparently they'll take a very keen, up-close and personal interest if you have food or a selfie-stick!
Our visit coincided with feeding time, which was great fun to watch. These guys roam free, so the people who care for them simply scatter feed in different places around the main park area. Monkeys of all sizes and ages scrambled to get the feed first, hooting with excitement as they ran.
The tiniest babies were adorable to watch, hopping about and getting used to climbing and jumping. Some were just snuggling up to their mothers, watching everything going on with wide eyes.
I'm so happy we made the trip to visit these guys - they are worth the uphill walk :)
We continued on to stay at Kamesei Ryokan, the most traditional inn we stayed at while in Japan. This place was the epitome of cosy and welcoming. Our hosts, Tyler and Mari not only collected us from the train station, they also made sure we knew where everything was and poured tea for us on arrival at our room.
Here, we got to try out onsen for ourselves (we didn't really fancy hopping in the monkey onsen). Onsen bathing is a popular tradition in Japan. Onsen, the natural hot springs I mentioned earlier, are so good for your health and wellbeing in many ways. Kamesei Ryokan has 2 onsen baths that are available to guests 24 hours a day.
You have to go in naked, so men and women are separate (can you imagine the scandal if not? You'd be mortified....). There's a whole range of etiquette you have to adhere to before you go in, but believe me, the whole thing - naked in front of strangers, pre and post shower - is worth it.