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, 2026（All year round）
*Except Oct 28-29 - Times
- 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. （All year around）
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.（March 20th – 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
- Strollers and wheelchairs cannot be used as we will be walking on unpaved forest paths.
*Infants (0-3) are welcome, but please be prepared to carry them for about 2km.
*Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian aged 20 or older. - Meeting Place
- Picchio Visitor Center
- Booking
- Deadline: Book online at least 1 hour before the tour starts.
(e.g., by 9:00 AM for the 10:00 AM tour).
Payment: Credit card required upon booking.
- 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
Drinks (Water refills available if you bring your own bottle)
Bug spray (Summer season) - 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 Environment & Activity
Walking: About 2km on unpaved trails. Please wear comfortable shoes. Strollers and wheelchairs are not permitted.
Restrooms: Not available during the tour. Please go beforehand.
2. Timing & Punctuality
Duration: End time may vary slightly. Please allow some extra time.
Punctuality: Please arrive on time. Latecomers may lose their reservation.
3. Safety & Clothing
Clothing: Temperatures can drop below freezing (late fall - early spring). Dress warmly.
Health & Safety: Participation is at your own risk. Please cancel if feeling unwell.
4. Cancellation Policy
By Guest: 2 days before: 20% | 1 day before: 50% | Day of tour: 100%
By Picchio: If we must cancel due to weather/conditions, we will notify you at least 90 mins before the tour.
5. Guide Information
Language: If you prefer a native English-speaking guide, please consider booking a private tour.
