Wild Japanese Flying Squirrel Watching Tour in Nagano

During this tour, guests will have the opportunity to observe the Japanese giant flying squirrel, an endemic species of Japan and one of the largest flying squirrel species in the world, as it opens its cloak-like body and glides into the forest at sunset. The chance of sighting this amazing creature is more than 90% as a result of our in-depth knowledge of the squirrel’s ecology and flight route. The Japanese giant flying squirrel’s dynamic flight will be sure to make you gasp in wonder. *Guided in Japanese and basic English (English ability varies by guide). ■ Important Notes ・Age: Ages 4+ ONLY. Under 4 strictly prohibited. ・Rain: Held in light rain. Cancelled 1.5h prior if severe. ・Trail: 5-20 min unpaved walk. No strollers/wheelchairs. ・Observe: Wait quietly in dark ~20 mins. Carry bags (may disband on-site). ・Bring: Flashlight, water, bug spray, long clothes. ・Park: Hoshino P1 (by Sonmin Shokudo, 5-min walk). ・Cancel: 100% fee for no-shows or late arrivals.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   20 min

   Introduction of this tour. A professional nature guide will talk about the ecology of Japanese giant flying squirrels (diet, size, flying distance, etc.) at the Picchio Visitor Center.

2. 2

   Karuizawa Hoshino Area

   1 hour

   Observation. After the lecture, we will walk outside and experience the silence of flying squirrels' glide broken only by the excited gasps of the audience.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• We cannot refund you any travel costs or other costs that may arise in case we have to cancel the tour due to unexpected reasons (weather, absence of flying squirrels, etc.)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.