Excursion

■Zenkoji Temple
Founded in 1707, Zenkoji is the fourth largest wooden structure designated as a national treasure in Japan.
When viewed from above, the main hall is shaped like a "shumoku" (a T-shaped tool used to strike bells), and the architectural style is referred to as the "Shumoku" style. The interior space of the main hall is arranged such that the entrance represents the mundane world, while the innermost part symbolizes paradise. In the outer sanctuary (gejin), you will find statues of King Enma, who judges humans, and in the inner sanctuary, there are Miroku Bosatsu and Jizo Bosatsu, who serve as saviors of the mundane world. At the farthest end, the Ruri Dan (Jewel Altar) houses the sacred statue of Amida Nyorai in the "Ikkou Sanzon" form, which is regarded as an absolute secret Buddha. Every day, the "Asa-gi" (morning service) is conducted in the main hall. Beneath the Ruri Dan, there is the "Kaidan Meguri," a pilgrimage that guarantees rebirth in the Pure Land of Amida Buddha.
A bus guide and Zenkoji volunteer guide will provide the tour. The visit lasts approximately 80 minutes.

■St.Cousair Winery
Nestled amidst greenery, the garden terrace, with its vibrant lush grass, offers a delightful plan to enjoy wine-tasting seminars and lunch. After touring the grapevines on the hill of St.Cousair, you will enjoy homemade wines while learning about the winemaking process and the dedication of the producers.
※Winery Tour with Garden Lunch (Approx. 140 minutes)

■Jigokudani Monkey Park
Located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, in the valley of the Yokoyu River, which originates from the Shiga Kogen area within the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, Jigokudani Monkey Park has been a popular spot for observing the fascinating ecology of the Japanese macaque since its establishment in 1964. It is widely loved by people around the world. Many researchers and photographers also visit and have achieved significant results.
The park is also famous for its monkeys bathing in the hot springs, which gained international attention when they were featured on the cover of the U.S. magazine "LIFE" in 1970.