Jigokudani Monkey Park is a unique spot in Japan where you can see the famous snow monkeys soaking in hot springs. I’m not sure “wild monkeys” is quite the right term—they’re not domesticated either, more like semi-wild. These are the only monkeys in Japan (and likely the world) that enjoy onsen baths.

The park is about a 30-minute walk through scenic woods to reach the hot springs, and while it’s quite touristy, I still really enjoyed the experience. The monkeys are adorable and surprisingly unafraid of people; they often carry their babies and will walk right by you, creating a close-up experience you won’t forget.

Access and Location:

The park is situated near the town of Yamanouchi in Nagano Prefecture. From Nagano Station, visitors can take the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station, followed by a local bus to Kanbayashi Onsen. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk through a scenic forest trail to the park entrance.

Snow Monkey Resorts

Admission Fee:

The entrance fee is 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for children (elementary to high school students)

Seasonal Information:

The park is open year-round, with operating hours varying by season:

• April to October: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

• November to March: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Winter (December to February) is particularly popular, as the snow-covered landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.

Visitor Experience:

Once again, the park is a popular tourist destination and can be crowded, the opportunity to observe these monkeys up close is a unique experience. The macaques are accustomed to humans and often carry their babies as they move around the area, providing excellent photo opportunities. The 30-minute walk to the park through the forest adds to the overall experience, offering a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Additional Tips:

• Wear appropriate footwear, especially in winter, as the trail can be slippery.

• The park is located in a mountainous area, so be prepared for varying weather conditions.

• While the monkeys are accustomed to humans, it's important to respect their space and not feed or touch them.