The ‘Flying Squirrel Watching Tour’ is a really cool nature trip where you can see Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels up close. Knowledgeable guides will show you all about their habits and how they glide through the air.
The tour’s main goal is to watch these graceful squirrels in their natural homes, and you can learn even more at the Picchio Visitor Center. You’ll get to use binoculars, and it’s easy to get to the meeting spot in Nagano, Japan using public transportation.
Plus, you can change your booking or cancel for free up to a day before the tour starts.
Just The Basics
- The tour allows you to discover the wild Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel in its natural habitat.
- Professional nature guides are available to help you spot the squirrels and learn about their lifestyle and behaviors.
- The tour takes place at the Picchio Visitor Center where you can learn about the squirrel’s habitat, diet, and why they live in Japan.
- Binoculars are provided for better observation of the squirrels during the tour.
Tour Details
On this tour, you’ll get to see the impressive Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel in its natural home, guided by experts who know all about them.
You’ll visit the Picchio Visitor Center to learn about where these squirrels live and how they behave. They’re originally from Japan and can be found in forests and mountains. They like forests with tall trees where they can glide easily. They make their homes in tree hollows or build nests out of leaves and twigs.
During the tour, the guides will take you to the best spots to see these amazing squirrels. You’ll get to watch them glide through the trees, showing off their cool flying skills. It’s a really memorable experience that lets you see the beauty of these squirrels in their natural world.
Booking and Reservation Information
Booking your spot on the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour is super easy! You can check if there are available slots and secure your spot without having to pay right away. Just go to the tour website and choose the date and time you prefer.
Once you’ve picked your slot, you can make a reservation without having to give any money upfront. This way, you can plan your trip and make sure you have a spot without worrying about the payment. You can pay later, closer to the day of the tour.
This gives you the flexibility to change your plans if needed. The booking and reservation process for the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour is convenient and flexible, so you can enjoy this awesome nature experience with peace of mind.
Tour Highlights
One of the best things about the tour is the guides. They really know a lot about Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels and can teach you all about where they live and how they behave. These guides are experts who’ve studied these squirrels for many years. They’ll tell you interesting facts about how the squirrels live, what they eat, and how they interact with their surroundings.
Another cool part of the tour is getting to see the flying squirrels in their natural homes. The guides know the best places to look for them, so you have a good chance of actually seeing them. It’s not always easy to find these squirrels because they like to hide, but the guides will do their best to help you spot them.
The tour is also scheduled for the time of year when you’re most likely to see the flying squirrels. This means you have a really good chance of getting to watch these amazing animals in action.
Inclusions and Equipment
When you join the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour, you’ll get to use binoculars to help you spot these sneaky creatures in the wild. The tour organizers provide the binoculars, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. These binoculars are really clear and make things look bigger, so you can see all the cool details of the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels.
It’s important to wear the right clothes for the tour. Since you’ll be outside, it’s a good idea to dress in layers so you can adjust to the weather. You should also wear comfortable shoes because you might’ve to walk through forests.
Meeting Point and Directions
To join the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour, you need to go to ピッキオ（軽井沢野鳥の森）Nature Tours and conservation at 2148 Nagakura, Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0111, Japan.
Here are three ways to get there using public transportation:
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Shinano railway: Take the train from Karuizawa station to Naka-Karuizawa station. It’s only one stop away and takes around 4 minutes. From there, you can either walk for about 17 minutes or take a quick 5-minute taxi ride to the meeting point. The train ticket costs ¥230 for one-way.
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Seibu Kanko Bus: Leave from the North Exit of Karuizawa station and hop on the bus heading to Karuizawa Eigyosho / Kusatsu Onsen. Get off at the Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu bus station, and it’s a short 5-minute walk to the meeting point. The bus fare is ¥460 for one-way.
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Taxi: If you prefer more convenience, you can take a taxi directly from either Karuizawa station or Naka-Karuizawa station to the meeting point.
These public transportation options make it easy and hassle-free to reach the meeting point for the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour.
Cancellation Policy
If you want to cancel your Flying Squirrel Watching Tour, you can do it up to 24 hours before the tour starts and get all your money back.
But if you cancel less than 24 hours in advance, you won’t get a refund.
Also, they won’t accept any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour starts.
Tips for a Successful Tour
Tips for a Successful Flying Squirrel Watching Tour:
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Best time to spot flying squirrels:
Go on the tour in the evening when the flying squirrels are most active. It’s dark, which helps you see their gliding patterns better. -
How to prepare for a nature tour:
Dress for the weather and wear comfy shoes for walking on bumpy ground. If you have binoculars, bring them. But don’t worry if you don’t have any because they’ll give you some. It’s also cool to bring a camera to capture the awesome moments of seeing these amazing creatures. -
Listen to the guide:
The guides are pros at finding flying squirrels. They know the best spots. Pay attention to what they say and follow their lead. Be quiet and respectful during the tour so you don’t scare the squirrels away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels Dangerous or Aggressive Towards Humans?
Japanese giant flying squirrels are not dangerous or aggressive towards humans. They generally avoid human interaction and prefer to stay in their natural habitat. Their behavior is more focused on finding food and shelter.
Can Children Participate in the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour?
Children of all ages can participate in the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour. Group rates are available to make it a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Don’t miss the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
During the tour, there are restrictions on photography to minimize disturbance to the flying squirrels. Flash photography should be avoided as it can impact their behavior. Visitors are encouraged to observe and enjoy the squirrels without disturbing them.
Is There a Maximum Number of Participants Allowed on Each Tour?
The maximum number of participants allowed on each tour is determined by safety precautions. The tour organizers ensure that there is a reasonable number of participants to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels in Their Natural Habitat?
The best time of year to see Japanese giant flying squirrels in their natural habitat is during the spring and summer months. They are most active at night, so it is recommended to bring binoculars for optimal viewing.
Last Words
So basically, the Flying Squirrel Watching Tour offers a thrilling and educational experience for nature enthusiasts. With knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to observe the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel in its natural habitat, participants gain insights into these elegant creatures’ behavior and lifestyle.
The Picchio Visitor Center serves as a base for this immersive experience, providing valuable information about the squirrels and their native Japan.
With flexible reservation policies and the convenience of public transportation, this tour is a must for anyone wanting to explore the enchanting world of flying squirrels.