[2025 Yamanouchi Attraction] Travel Guide for Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) (Updated Apr)

#hotsprings #100waysoftravel Hotspring vacation is very popular in Japan, but have you ever wondered monkeys enjoying hot spring? At Nagano near Shibu Onsen, there is this place called Jigokudani Yaen Koen, which is a hot spring area and the ones using it are not humans, but monkeys. That area is a wild hot spring area with no ryokan or resorts, which is why wild monkeys are usingbthem purely for their own leisure especially during the cold winter. Those apes are also not afraid of humans, probably due to the fact that many tourists visiting there. It is a very interesting site and I hope to visit there again.

On a cold winter day covered in white snow, we arrived at the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, Japan, hoping to witness the famous snow monkeys firsthand. As I entered the park, snowflakes gently fell from the sky, adding a touch of magic to this tranquil white world. Upon stepping into the park, we saw a group of adorable wild Japanese macaques playing in the snow. Their furry bodies stood out against the white snow, and their warm fur seemed to tell a story of the cold. Next, we walked to the famous hot spring pool. The snow monkeys here seemed completely indifferent to the outside world, leisurely soaking in the steaming hot springs. They occasionally stirred the water, enjoying the warmth and comfort. Watching their relaxed demeanor, our mood also lightened, as if we too had become part of this serene world, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the moment. The snow monkeys' leisurely attitude taught us that in life, it's okay to slow down and enjoy every moment. This trip to Jigokudani has become one of our most cherished memories.

#naturalscape A photo of a monkey bathing in a hot spring in heavy snow has attracted countless tourists to visit the extremely popular attraction "Jigokudani Monkey Park" in Nagano Prefecture. Established in 1964, it is a park with a natural environment without fences or cages, where you can observe wild Japanese macaques up close. Transportation guide: Jigokudani Monkey Park is located deep in the mountains. No matter where you depart from Japan, please arrive at "JR Nagano Station" first. The easiest and most convenient way is to take the Nagaden Express and get off at the East Exit Bus Station No. 4 (bus The stop sign says Nozawa Onsen. Madarao Plateau direction, Shiga Kogen direction) Take the bus "bound for Kuma no Yu. Inkawa" for 45 minutes and get off at "Snow Monkey Park (SNOW MONKEY PARK)/Kamibayashi Onsenguchi". It takes 45 minutes. , follow the signs and walk for about 40 to 60 minutes to get there. It is highly recommended to purchase the "SNOW MONKEY PASS" snow monkey pass, which includes round-trip transportation and admission to the park. There are not many fixed flights, so be sure to check the return timetable before setting off. I arrived in Nagano at the end of February. The weather was nice and warm. I took the Nagaden Express Bus to reach the mouth of Kamibayashi Hot Spring. Then I followed other tourists and walked along the winding trail for about 40 minutes. There were cliffs on one side and steep slopes on the other. There are no railings at all, which is indeed a bit dangerous in the snow season. The walkway is relatively flat and there are steep stairs until you reach the entrance of the park. After passing the ticket gate of the cabin, you officially enter the Wild Monkey Park. Although they are wild macaques, feeding is prohibited! Along the way, there will be some small macaques lying or sitting on free piles of stones for sunbathing. There are more macaques near the hot spring area. The weather is nice today and the snow has melted, so there are no macaques to take a dip in. There will be staff present secretly throwing feed into the hot spring pool to attract the macaques, which can also satisfy the tourists who come all the way to see the macaques. I have to say that in this wild macaque park, I didn’t see cleaning staff, but no matter whether I walked or walked on the cliff, I couldn’t see the macaque excrement, and there was no strong smell. Macaques should be very used to people walking around. They won't attack or snatch things. They just do their own thing. Even Japanese macaques are very polite. Nagano Prefecture is one of the cities with the largest amount of snow in Japan in winter. When you come to Jigokudani Wild Park in winter, you must wear warm clothes or waterproof snowshoes. There are no rest seats in the natural environment, let alone lockers. The lighter the better. Well, everyone is welcome to visit Nagano. #familytravel # Hell Valley Monkey Park # Nagano # Shanglin Hot Spring # Snow Monkey # Japan # 100 Ways to Travel # Natural Landscape

#100waysoftravel Sharing some amazing photos I took on the trail towards the snow money park in Nagano 🇯🇵! Honestly, the trail is really pretty! So take your time to enjoy the scenery along the way, you will be missing out if you are only focusing on the snow money but forgot to take the time to admire the beautiful nature landscape along the way! 📍Address: Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen), 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan

Getting There - Nagano Attractions - Snow Monkeys 🙉

The Japanese Macaques, more popularly known as the Snow Monkeys, inhabits this park located in the forests of the Jigokudani valley in Yamanouchi. The monkeys love to gather around this man-made onsen pool and it is really interesting to watch them interact and socialize with each other while soaking in the warm pools. The best time to visit this place is during winter months, when the whole place will be covered in snow. The walk to the onsen pool is quite a long but very scenic one. It was very enjoyable walking through the forest trees all covered in snow and the scenic river landscape. #momentssg #nyedestinations #japan

If I could only recommend one place to visit during Winter in Tokyo area, the Jigokudani Money Park will be my choice without a doubt! Located to the nearest city, Tokyo, the monkey park is easily accessible via public transport, and the exact bus/train information can be found easily online. I will highly recommend to plan your trip early in advance so as to not miss any schedule! Once reaching the entrance, there will be a 20mins walk before reaching the park where the snow monkeys live. This 20mins walk is one of the most enjoyable, easy hike because of how beautiful the whole place is when covered with snow. And once you reach the monkey park, that’s where the real fun begins! You will be able to look at the natural habitat and behavior of these snow monkeys, and because nothing is caged, these cute ones may even come running next to you! Just be careful not to do anything that may irritate them. The park although is opened all year round, but I will HIGHLY recommend to visit during the winter season as these place looks the absolute best in snow. One extra tip for those photographers. Make sure to bring a tele zoom lens so you can take photos of the monkey close up! It makes me feel like a Natgeo photographer for a moment! 😂 #unforgettableexperiences #momentssg #japan #tokyojapan #hiking #nationalpark #unforgettableexperiences

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is located at northern Nagano, Japan. It offers visitors the unique experience of seeing wild monkeys bathing in a natural hot spring. The park has one man-made pool around which the monkeys gather, located a few minutes walk from the park entrance. Visitors will likely already encounter monkeys along the path to the pool. Although the park is open all year round, the bathing monkeys are particularly photogenic when the area is covered in snow. There is usually snow in the region from December to March, and the best timing for a visit is January and February. #givethanks #givethanks

In fact, I knew very early on that the Hell Valley Wilderness Court was recently able to make a trip. Walking to the Yeyuan Court is still a bit of a distance, but when you get there, you can see the monkeys. Since the beginning of the protection work, the monkeys are not afraid of tourists, we can all see them in the hot spring pool and it is very comfortable and comfortable. The visit is very good all year round. If you want to see the monkey bath and snow, then choose winter, and you can also find the expression that monkeys enjoy. Transportation: Depart from Nagano City, take the Nagano Electric Railway and get off at Yudanaka Station (note that only the red and green trains in the tram stop can get to the hot springs, that is, about one hour), then sit The bus takes about 10 minutes to Shanglin Hot Spring Station. There are clear road signs to the Hell Valley Wilderness Court, which is about 30 minutes (1.8 km) on foot.

Nagano Hell Valley Monkey Hot Springs Day Tour Winter Go to Nagano Prefecture, encounter heavy snow, this time is the best time to see monkey hot springs. Outside the long gun and short gun, the hot spring pool, the monkeys are relaxing in the hot springs. The monkeys in the wild park of Hell Valley are so calm. tips: 1. Recommend monkey pass, you can buy tickets in Changye and change to Tangtianzhong, including round-trip transportation, monkey hot spring tickets. 2. Monkey Hot Spring is in the park. It takes about 30 minutes to walk. The mountain roads are all dirt roads. When the snow is thick, you can touch the ankles. It is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes. 3. If there is no suitable shoes, there are snowshoes in the souvenir shop at the entrance of the park, 800 yen 4. There is plenty of time to spend hot springs in the hot springs outside the park, Japan is a bare soup, There is no need to wear a swimsuit, men and women are separated, and they need to enter the hot spring pool after bathing. The hot springs in Hell Valley are very nice and the scenery is beautiful.

One of the must-see attractions in Nagano is Hell Valley! The number of monkeys is visually at least 100 🐒 very exaggerated 😆 However, not all can soak in hot springs ♨️ It seems that they are high-status people can soak 😆 It takes about half an hour to walk from the entrance of Hell Valley to the Monkey Hot Spring location. The park will close at 4pm, it is recommended to arrive at the entrance of Hell Valley before 3:30pm!! Personally, I think it's quite worth coming 👍🏻 💰Tickets 800yen #March Good Places 2025 #Japan #Nagano #Hell Valley Wild Monkey Park #Monkey #Japan Good Places

Walking up to the little monkey may be a bit far, but if you get there, you will find a small smile on your face because it is very cute, unlike the other monkeys you see. It is orderly and not naughty.

I went to see monkeys bathing in hot springs in the snowy scenery 🐒 More than anything, the monkeys here are really friendly, fluffy and especially cute...I was fascinated by their adorable appearance bathing in the hot springs so comfortably!! Be careful, especially in winter, as the ground is very icy underfoot 😱 There are some very muddy areas and slippery slopes and steep slopes that continue for about 30 minutes, so please wear snow shoes ⛷️ It's harder than expected, so I recommend visiting in the season when the ground is not icy underfoot for small children, elderly people, and those who are not confident in their physical strength. *Some people with small children turned back halfway through. Also, I felt that 80% of the customers were foreign tourists, and most of the signs were in English, so even if you are not confident in Japanese, you can rest assured. [Jigokudani Monkey Park] 🕰️Opening hours: 9:00-16:00 *Changes may occur in winter 💰Price per person: 800 yen for adults, 400 yen for children 📍Location: Get off at "Snow Monkey Park", about 35 minutes walk #Domestic travel #Jigokudani Monkey Park #snowmonkeypark #Nagano sightseeing #Nagano trip #Nagano #Snow monkey #0 yen trip February 2025 #My travel plan #Monkey hot spring

If you want to see these monkeys taking a bath, you have to walk 2 kilometers! 🤣 The scenery along the way is beautiful. If there is snow, it is recommended to buy shoe spikes in advance, which will make walking much faster and safer! 💰Average consumption: NT$800 per adult But it was over in about 5 minutes! 🤣Super small! This pool of bathing monkeys costs 800 yen. It depends on whether you think it is a good deal or not! But the scenery along the way (free) is really nice! But I personally don’t recommend going there if you have children under 5 years old, because there are cliffs along the way and the trail is only wide for 3 people in both directions, which is a bit dangerous. If you are not sure you can control the little devil, it is better not to take risks! #snow scene #hot spring

The snow-covered mountains of Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano offer stunning scenery, and it's the only place in the world where you can see monkeys soaking in hot springs. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City is especially beautiful when it snows, showcasing the traditional beauty of Japanese temples. They also sell special cow-themed amulets, which are worth collecting. At Akashina Station in Nagano Prefecture, you can enjoy the sight of snow-covered mountains and ducks seeking refuge from the cold. It's a perfect spot for endless photography! 📍Address: Jigokudani Monkey Park Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture Access: ・From JR Nagano Station, take the express bus for about 41 minutes, get off at the Snow Monkey Park bus stop, and walk for about 35 minutes ・From the Shinshu-Nakano IC on the expressway, drive to the Kanbayashi Onsen parking lot and walk for about 30 minutes

As I step into Jigokudani, the hot spring pools shrouded in white mist reveal specks of brown, which I initially thought were fallen leaves. Upon closer inspection, I realize that dozens of macaques are soaking in the hot springs with their eyes closed, snow covering their heads like white woolen hats. They stretch their limbs, letting snowflakes melt on their noses, resembling humans relaxing in a hot bath. At this moment, the boundary between humans and nature quietly dissolves. These 'snow monkeys' teach us in their most primitive form that the warmth of winter needs no words to explain. Perhaps true paradise is found in the ordinary moments of tranquility shared by all living things.

Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in Kamibayashi, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture, and is the only place in the world where wild monkeys come to bathe in an open-air snow bath. It is a very popular spot where many foreign tourists visit to see Japanese macaques bathing in the natural hot springs that spring up in the mountains in the bitter cold. The sight of mother and child monkeys and baby monkeys is so heartwarming that you will want to take lots of photos. Although they are wild monkeys, they are actually fed, so they are not wary of humans and will come very close to you when you notice them (of course touching is prohibited). To Jigokudani Monkey Park In winter, the road is closed, so you have to walk about 1.8km from the entrance along the mountain path for about 30 minutes. It's flat so you won't get tired, but it's very slippery with snow, so we recommend shoes with sturdy soles. (Rental shoes and crampons are available at the entrance to the mountain path) 📍6845 Heijo, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture 🕰️9:00-16:00 (November-March)/8:30-17:00 (April-October) Open all year round 💰Admission fee: 800 yen for adults, 400 yen for children #Seasonal places in Japan #Nagano Prefecture #Amazing views #Wild animals #Hot springs

What’s the point of visiting Nagano in winter and not skiing? but! What’s more important is – eating hot pot in an igloo! This is not only a snow country, but also a paradise for hot pot lovers! 🍲💨 The most special experience of coming to Shinagawa this time was enjoying a snow house hot pot dinner and a simple accommodation plan at **"Snow House Village Restaurant" (レストランかまくら村)** (かまくら夕食とシンプル宿泊プラン)! This place is simply a winter fairy tale, the atmosphere is so beautiful~ 🌟The charm of the snow house hot pot Walking into the pure white snow house, surrounded by walls made of ice and snow, it is warm inside like a secret base! ✨ ✅ Perfect atmosphere: Warm yellow candlelight embellishes the snow-white space, it really feels like walking into a fairy tale world! ✅ Super hot pot: full of Shinshu beef, local vegetables, handmade miso soup base, one bite of the steaming hot pot will instantly drive away the cold~ ✅ Drink Shinshu sake while eating hot pot: Of course you have to try the local sake when you come here, hot sake + hot pot, the most heartwarming combination in winter! 📸 Tips for checking in: • Take a photo of the moment when the hot pot is smoking, with a white background, the atmosphere is instantly maximized! • When the lights are turned on at night, the igloos turn into small glowing castles, which is super romantic! You’ll also have a chance to see fireworks! ! ! 🎿 Things to do in Shinkansen in winter In addition to hot pot, there are other things to do in Nagano in winter! ✔ Ski Resorts: There are many ski resorts nearby, where both novices and veterans can have a blast! 🏂 ✔ Jigokudani Monkey Park: You must go to see the monkeys taking a hot spring bath, they enjoy it more professionally than humans😂! 🐵♨️ ✔ Visit Zenkoji Temple: One of the most historic temples in Japan, and pray for good luck ✨ 💡 Travel Tips 🚆 Transportation: Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station, then take a bus to the Snow Village, and you can get there in 2 hours! ❄ Best time to experience: January to February every year, when there is the most snow and the igloo is the most stable! 🧣 Outfit suggestions: It’s super cold outside, so snow boots and down jackets are a must, but it will be warmer when you eat hot pot in the igloo, so remember to wear clothes that are easy to take off! The winter in Shinshu, Nagano is so beautiful, especially the dream experience of eating hot pot in an igloo, which you must experience once in your life! ❄️🍲 Eat well, soak in hot springs, and ski, and enjoy the perfect winter travel~ Hurry up and plan your next snow country adventure! ✨ #Register for February Hotel Test Sleeper 2025

#newyearnewtrip Visiting Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, or Hell Valley Monkey Park, is a unique and unforgettable experience. Located in the mountainous region of Nagano, this park is famous for its wild snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques, that bathe in natural hot springs. The sight of these monkeys relaxing in steaming pools surrounded by snow-covered landscapes is nothing short of magical, especially during the winter months. The park itself is nestled in a picturesque valley, offering a beautiful walking trail through a dense forest, leading visitors to the hot springs where the monkeys gather. Beyond the monkeys, the area is rich in natural beauty, with geothermal features like bubbling hot springs and sulfur vents adding to the dramatic landscape. Whether you're a nature lover, animal enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience in Japan, Jigokudani Yaen-Koen offers an unforgettable adventure that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

#mountainhike The only place in earth where monkey's bathe in hot spring. Nagano Japan, only an hour and 30mins by Shinkansen from Tokyo. Get to see this natural phenomenom where Snow Monkeys bathe at Japanese Onsens. Prepare to hike 3km from gate to see them. #japan #nagano #snowmonkeys #onsen

#mountainhike Hiking through a winter wonderland, surrounded by towering snow-covered trees, and then—just like that—you spot them. Wild Japanese macaques, better known as snow monkeys, soaking in the steaming hot springs as if they own the place (because, well, they do). There’s something magical about seeing them up close, their fur dusted with snow, completely unbothered by the cold. The 1.6 km hike to the park is part of the adventure—just be sure to wear proper boots in winter! Would you trek through the snow to meet these adorable hot spring lovers? #jigokudanimonkeypark #snowmonkeys #japanhiking #wintermagic #mountainhike

#getgoing2025 Jigokudani Monkey Park This unique hot spring area in Yamanouchi, Nagano, is famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) that bathe in the warm waters during the winter. Watching these monkeys relax in the onsen (hot springs) is a truly unforgettable experience. The park provides a rare opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Japan is easy and fun to travel to. I bought a ticket to my accommodation on the first day. I went to the monkey hot springs. Haha. I bought Wi-Fi and an IC card.

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a rare spot in the world where you can observe wild Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs up close 🐒 Watching the monkeys leisurely enjoy the hot springs amidst the snow-covered winter scenery brought a sense of tranquility ☺️ The park is surrounded by rich nature, allowing you to enjoy interactions with the natural environment. 📍Location: 6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture, 381-0401 ※ It's about a 2-kilometer walk from the dedicated parking lot of Jigokudani Monkey Park! In winter, the path can be slippery due to ice, so it's safer to wear anti-slip shoes or hiking boots.

Winter, snow, skiing, hot springs, Shinshu... so let's go to Nagano to meet the snow monkeys ♪😄 You can meet snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi-cho, Shimotakai-gun 🐒 After all, they are wild monkeys, so they live normally in the mountains, but in winter they come down in groups to bathe in the hot springs of Jigokudani, so winter is definitely the best time to see snow monkeys! ⛄️ If you go by car, you will have to park further and further away when the parking lot is full, so it is recommended to go early in the morning, but be careful because you cannot enter even if you go before the park opens ☝️ From the entrance to the promenade, you will walk on snowy and muddy roads, so boots or boots are recommended ♪ It's about 1.6km of uphill... quite a distance 😅 On the way, you can see the natural monument Jigokudani Fountain and other attractions. If you come to this area, you will encounter monkeys as usual😊 And when you enter the ticket office, there are already many monkeys♪ Monkeys bathing in the hot springs, monkeys grooming, monkeys eating something, monkeys running and fighting... monkeys of all ages and genders are spending their time in their own way♪ However, since they are wild monkeys, they may not always be in the hot springs. It is better to check the live camera on the Jigokudani Yaen Koen website and social media to see what is going on♪ And there are some precautions that you must follow, so be sure to check the website⚠️ Why not visit Shibu Onsen, Kanbayashi Onsen, Yudanaka Onsen, and other hot springs at the foot of the mountain while enjoying the hot springs♨️🤗 📍Location: 6845 Heijo, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: From around 9:00 to around 16:00 during winter #tripdomestictravel #nagano #naganotourism #naganotrip #shinshu #jigokudaniyaenkoen #snowmonkey

🌹- **Spring**: Stroll through the streets of Nagano City and admire the cherry blossoms that bloom like clouds and mist, creating a beautiful contrast with the ancient temples. It's like stepping into a vivid painting. 🌹- **Summer**: Hike through the lush green forests of Kamikochi, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the vitality of nature. 🌹- **Autumn**: The fiery red leaves of Karuizawa transform the entire town into a dreamlike wonderland. 🌹- **Winter**: Ski down the slopes of Nagano's ski resorts and enjoy the perfect blend of speed and excitement. 🌈A fusion of history and modernity - **Zenkoji Temple**: This 1,400-year-old temple is the spiritual heart of Nagano City. It enshrines a mysterious secret Buddha, and legend has it that visiting once in a lifetime will bring you blessings of eternal happiness. - **Nagano Olympic Museum**: Relive the glory of the 1998 Winter Olympics and experience the perfect combination of sports and culture. 🌲🌲Natural and ecological wonders - **Jigokudani Monkey Park**: Get up close and personal with adorable snow monkeys as they relax in the hot springs. This unique natural spectacle attracts countless visitors. - **Kamikochi**: Known as the "Japanese Alps," this picturesque natural landscape is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. 🍱🍱A feast of food and culture - **Shinshu Soba**: One of Nagano's specialties, this buckwheat noodle dish is known for its unique texture and rich nutrition, leaving you craving for more. - **Nagano Sake**: Made with high-quality local water and exquisite brewing techniques, this sake has a rich flavor that you won't want to miss. 🌈🌈Nagano City is a charming tourist destination that will captivate you with its natural scenery, historical culture, and culinary experiences. Here, you can experience Japan's four seasons, witness the fusion of history and modernity, marvel at natural and ecological wonders, and indulge in a feast of food and culture. Nagano City awaits your visit! 🌲🌲🌲❤️

Nestled in the heart of Nagano's scenic Jigokudani Valley, the Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen-Koen) offers one of the most enchanting wildlife experiences I’ve ever had. Visiting this iconic destination was like stepping into a nature documentary, where the boundary between humans and wildlife feels both respectful and intimate. The Journey to the Park The adventure began with a picturesque hike through a snow-blanketed forest trail. The path, about 1.6 km long, was an experience in itself. Towering trees, the crunch of fresh snow underfoot, and the crisp mountain air set the tone for what was to come. The trail was well-maintained, but winter visitors should wear sturdy, waterproof boots and dress warmly to fully enjoy the trek. The Stars of the Show As I arrived at the park, I was greeted by the sight of Japanese macaques—commonly known as snow monkeys—lounging and playing in the hot springs. The sight of these fluffy, red-faced primates soaking in the steaming onsen, surrounded by snow-covered rocks, was utterly surreal. Their expressions of pure relaxation were almost human-like, making it impossible not to smile. What struck me most was their playful demeanor. Some monkeys were grooming each other, others splashing in the water, while curious youngsters darted around in the snow. The park’s commitment to preserving the monkeys' natural habitat while allowing visitors to observe them up close was commendable. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Winter (December to March) is the best time to see the monkeys in their full snowy glory, but the park is open year-round. Photography: Bring a good camera or smartphone, as the photo opportunities are endless. A zoom lens is helpful for capturing candid shots without disturbing the monkeys. Respect the Rules: While the monkeys are accustomed to humans, it’s important not to feed or touch them to maintain their wild instincts. Final Thoughts Snow Monkey Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a unique experience in Japan. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with wildlife in such a serene and respectful environment. Whether you’re captivated by the natural beauty of the valley or charmed by the antics of the monkeys, this trip is bound to leave you with unforgettable memories. Would I go back? Absolutely. Watching the snow monkeys bask in their steamy sanctuary was a magical reminder of the beauty and tranquility nature offers. #SnowMonkey #nagano #japan #HotSpring #travelfreak

#japan If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Japan, the Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Monkey Park) in Nagano should be at the top of your list. 💞Reasons to Recommend: This unique destination offers the rare chance to see Japanese macaques (commonly called snow monkeys) soaking in natural hot springs while surrounded by snowy landscapes. What makes it even more special is that these monkeys are completely free to roam; they are not in captivity and come and go as they please. Watching them interact in their natural environment is as adorable as it is fascinating. What Is the Snow Monkey Park? 📍Address: Located in the beautiful Jigokudani Valley, the park is famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques. During the colder months, these clever monkeys descend from the forest to warm up in the park’s natural onsen (hot springs). It’s a heartwarming sight to see them relax in the steaming pools while snow gently falls around them. They also interact with each other in playful and often hilarious ways, making for incredible photo opportunities. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit is during winter (December to February), when the snow creates a picturesque backdrop for the monkeys enjoying the hot springs. The contrast of their fur against the snow is stunning, and the cold weather makes their onsen habit even more relatable! That said, the park is open year-round, and visiting in other seasons offers its own charm. In spring, you might catch glimpses of baby monkeys, and in autumn, the surrounding foliage bursts into vibrant colors. How to Get There We chose to drive, which made the trip flexible and convenient. The drive from Nagano City takes about 45 minutes, and there’s parking available near the park. From the parking lot, it’s a scenic 25-30 minute walk along a forest trail to reach the monkeys. Be sure to wear sturdy, warm footwear, especially in winter, as the path can be icy or muddy. For those without a car, public transport is a great alternative: • From Nagano Station: Take the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station. From there, a local bus can take you to Kanbayashi Onsen, where the trail to the park begins. • By Shuttle or Taxi: Some hotels in the area offer shuttles, or you can take a taxi from Yudanaka Station for added convenience. Tips for Your Visit 1. Dress Warmly in Winter: Layers, gloves, and a hat are essential, as it can get very cold in the valley. 2. Bring a Camera: The monkeys are incredibly photogenic, and you’ll want to capture their charming antics. 3. Respect the Wildlife: While the monkeys are used to humans, they are wild animals. Avoid feeding or touching them. 4. Plan for the Walk: The trail to the park is part of the experience, with beautiful views of the surrounding forest. Final Thoughts Our visit to the Snow Monkey Park was one of the highlights of our trip. Watching the monkeys’ unique behavior in such a serene, snowy setting felt like stepping into a nature documentary. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply love cute animals, this is an experience you’ll treasure forever. If you’re planning to visit Nagano, add this to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!