Nature Watching Tour
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Price
¥2,500～
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Duration
2 hours
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Hosted in
Japanese and basic English (English level may vary depending on your guide)
Summary
This is one of Picchio’s signature tours. Held in the pristine National Wild Bird Sanctuary Forest in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, join our expert guides on a leisurely walk to observe seasonal nature. With a gentle pace and walking distance just under 2km, this tour is suitable for people of all ages. Keep your eyes peeled for flowers, animal signs, birds, and more!
Highlights
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1. Flowers, Insects, Birds, and More
While the site of the tour is the Wild Bird Sanctuary Forest, birds are only one of many kinds of living things to be seen here. Varieties of flowers bloom depending on the season, insects chatter, wild birds sing, and squirrels and foxes come and go. This is a variety tour where the creatures you observe are unique to that particular day.
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2. Spot Things You Would Otherwise Miss
Deer prints on the forest path, a walnut shell marked by a squirrel’s teeth, the faint sound of a bird landing on crisp leaves, Picchio’s guides are specially trained to pick up the traces of animals. With our guidance, you will be able to see things you may not otherwise notice.
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3. The Many Wonders of Nature
Not only can you learn the names of the animals and plants you see, but your guide will explain the fascinating reasons behind each creature’s form and behaviour. "What is that bird doing?", "Why is this plant so colourful?" As you feel your curiosity grow, feel free to ask your guide questions about the wondrous ecology surrounding you.
Details
- Period
- Karuizawa, January 1st to December 31st, 2025（All year round）
Unavailable tour dates: 14th to 17th and 20th to 24th of January, 3rd and 4th of March, 15th and 16th of October, and 26th of November - Times
- 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. （All year around）
13:30 p.m. – 15:30 p.m.（April – November） - Price
- Adults (13 years and up) – 2,500 yen～ per person
Children (4-12 years old) – 1,200 yen～ per child
Infants (0-3 years old) – Free of charge
Rental binoculars – 300 yen per unit
*Prices change depending on the date. For details, please refer to the reservation calendar. - Requirements
- None (suitable for anyone)
*Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian aged 20 or older. - Meeting Place
- Picchio Visitor Center
- Reservation
- Please make a booking at least one hour before the start time of your preferred tour.
i.e. for morning tours (starting at 10:00 a.m.) please book by 9:00 a.m. on the day. For afternoon tours (starting at 13:30 p.m.) book by 12:30 p.m. on the day.
＊Once capacity for the tour is reached, reservations will be closed so we recommend you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
- Tops
- Long sleeves
Warm jacket (October - May) - Bottoms
- Long pants
Leggings (December – February) - Shoes
- Casual shoes (comfortable for walking in)
Winter boots (December – March) - Others
- Gloves, scarf, and a beanie are useful for cold days
Rain gear in case it rains - Free rental items
- Winter boots, trekking shoes, and rain wear.
*These items are available on a first come, first serve basis. You can contact us to reserve items in advance if necessary
- Notice
- 1. Tour Activity and Movement Restrictions
Walking Distance/Attire: The walking distance is about 2km. Please wear comfortable shoes.
Accessibility (CRITICAL): The path is unpaved (forest trail), and therefore, strollers and wheelchairs cannot be used.
Observation Method: We wait quietly in the dark for approximately 20 minutes until the flying squirrel leaves its nest.
2. Time and Location
Duration: The finish time may vary slightly depending on conditions. Please join our tours with time to spare.
Punctuality: Please arrive on time. If you are late, we may cancel your reservation to allow other guests to join the tour.
Restrooms: Restrooms are not available during the tour. Please use the restroom before departure.
3. Safety and Cancellation
Clothing/Temperature: Temperatures can drop below zero from late fall to early spring. Please prepare warm clothing beforehand.
Health: If you are feeling unwell, please consider cancelling the tour. Participation is at your own risk.
Picchio Cancellation: In case of cancellation due to weather or other reasons, we will contact you at least 90 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellation is free up to 2 days before the tour. A prescribed cancellation fee applies thereafter. (Please check the detailed policy separately.)
4. Guide Information
Guide Language: If you would like a native English speaking guide, please consider booking a private tour.
