Silence & Snow Tour
A Quiet Snowshoe Journey in Nagano
Experience the stillness of winter in the mountains of Nagano.
Silence & Snow Tour is a guided snowshoe experience designed for travelers who want to slow down, move quietly, and reconnect with nature through snow, silence, and warmth.
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About This Tour
This full-day winter experience focuses on presence rather than speed.
Walking on snowshoes through silent forests and open alpine terrain, you will experience a rare sense of calm where sound is softened by snow and time feels slower.
The tour combines gentle adventure, local knowledge, and traditional Japanese culture, making it suitable for first-time snowshoe participants as well as experienced nature lovers.
  • Duration: Approx. 8 hours
  • Season: Winter (snow conditions required)
  • Group size: Small group (2–5 guests)
  • Age: 12 years and above
  • Meeting point: Matsumoto Station (pickup included)
What You'll Experience
Snowshoe Walk to Ameike Pond
Ride the Kita-Yatsugatake Pilatus Ropeway to the alpine zone, then enjoy a guided snowshoe walk through quiet winter forests toward Ameike Pond, a frozen lake surrounded by snow-covered trees.
Handmade Warm Lunch
At Ameike Pond, enjoy a homemade warm lunch prepared by the guide staff.
Sharing a hot meal beside a frozen pond offers comfort, warmth, and a moment of rest in the winter landscape.
Onsen (Hot Spring)
After the walk, relax at a local Japanese onsen (hot spring).
Soaking in mineral-rich hot water helps ease tired muscles and gently warm the body after time in the snow. Basic onsen etiquette will be explained by the guide.
Optional Izakaya Experience
After the onsen, guests may optionally visit a local izakaya, a casual Japanese pub popular with locals.
One complimentary drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) is included. Additional food and drinks are paid individually. This part may be skipped if preferred.
Sample Itinerary
1
Morning
Pickup at Matsumoto Station
2
Ropeway Ascent
Ropeway ascent to alpine area
3
Snowshoe Walk
Guided snowshoe walk to Ameike Pond
4
Lunch
Warm handmade lunch
5
Onsen
Onsen (hot spring)
6
Optional Izakaya
Optional izakaya visit
7
Late Afternoon
Return to Matsumoto Station

The itinerary may change depending on weather and snow conditions.
What's Included
  • Round-trip transportation from Matsumoto Station
  • Professional local guide
  • Snowshoe equipment
  • Handmade warm lunch
  • Onsen visit
  • One complimentary drink at izakaya (if joined)
Important Information
What to Bring & Clothing
  • Warm winter clothing layers
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Gloves, hat, sunglasses
  • Water bottle
  • Winter boots will be provided if needed
Cancellation Policy
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
  • Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
  • Tours may be cancelled due to severe weather conditions with full refund.
Health & Fitness Requirements
  • Moderate fitness level required.
  • Participants should be able to walk on snow for 2-3 hours with breaks.
  • Not suitable for those with serious heart conditions, recent surgeries, or mobility issues.
Insurance
  • Travel insurance is recommended.
  • Participants are responsible for their own insurance coverage.
  • Basic accident insurance is included in the tour.
Other Notes
  • Vegetarian/dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
  • Onsen requires bathing without clothing (gender-separated).
  • Tattoos may not be permitted at some onsen facilities.
Tour Information
Price
¥38,000 per person
Group Size
Minimum 2 guests / Maximum 5 guests
(Small-group experience)
Age Requirement
Guests aged 12 and above
Duration
Approx. 8 hours (full-day experience)
Meeting Point
Matsumoto Station
(Pickup and drop-off included)
Season
Winter only (subject to snow conditions)
Notes
This tour is designed for beginners, but participants should be comfortable walking outdoors in winter conditions.
The itinerary may change depending on weather and safety conditions.
About Future Kids Adventures (FKA)
Future Kids Adventures (FKA) is an outdoor education and adventure guiding organization based in Nagano, Japan.
We specialize in small-group nature experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, and meaningful connection with the natural world.
Our programs are led by experienced local guides and focus on safety, flexibility, and authentic outdoor experiences for families and international travelers.
TOUR GUIDE
TORU FUJITA
PROFILE:
Your guide is a local outdoor guide based in Nagano, with extensive experience leading small-group snowshoe and nature tours in the Japanese Alps, focusing on safety, silence, and respect for nature.
Booking
This tour is operated by Future Kids Adventures.
Reservations and payments are handled via GetYourGuide
Contact
For general information about our activities: