2025 Yamanouchi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

#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

●Name Yudanaka Onsen Yorozuya ●Access 3137 Heijo, Yamanouchi-cho, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano 🚗Private parking available ●Points Nagano is big... The further north you go, the more wonderful hot springs there are Not only hot springs, but also fruits and sake A really great place Yudanaka Onsen Yorozuya was rebuilt after a fire in the past, but all the historical things remain As soon as you enter the entrance, you can feel that it is a representative hot spring inn of Nagano that has been loved by famous people since the Kansei era The latticed ceiling and decorations... You can experience an atmosphere that makes you feel like you have gone back in time. The hot springs are particularly famous, and it is worth visiting just for the "Momoyama bath"‼ ️ Also, although I didn't use it, the SPA facilities have been expanded and are very nice from the photos It is a 2-hour set, so I think you can relax at your leisure. The food is delicious, but... I think it would be more valuable if they served more local ingredients in their natural flavors. It's a really wonderful hot spring inn, so I definitely want to visit it again if I get the chance. You can also visit "Shibu Onsen Kanaguya," which is full of the world of "Spirited Away," in a 30-minute walk. It's hard to get a reservation, but it's a hot spring inn that you'd like to visit at least once. #AccommodationReview#HotSpring #Nagano #Ryokan

📍 Japan 🇯🇵❄️ Location↓ When stayed at a ryokan ✨🧡❄️ Soaking in the hot spring after a long day of walking through the snowy paths, waking up in the morning to breathe the fresh winter air in the mountain, reading a book by the window when the snowflakes are falling outside. I had a very happy weekend at Shibu onsen @shibu_onsen_ in Nagano Prefecture and would love to come back🥰 I believe you would have a great time here as i did ✨ Would you like to stay at a ryokan in Japan? 🙋‍♀️🙋❄️✨ 📍 Shibu Onsen (渋温泉) . . . . . . #travelinginspiration #openmyworld #hellofrom #wonderful_places #長野観光 #exploremore #earthfocus #foryourpage #naganoprefecture #passionpassport #温泉 #japan_daytime_view #japan_of_insta #beautifuldestinations #lovers_nippon #長野観光 #landscapephotography #japantravel #thisisjapan #visitjapanau #visitjapanjp #visualofearth #nhậtbản #japón #長野のいいところ冬 #渋温泉 #nagano #helloimng #冬旅 #カップル旅

Getting There - Nagano Attractions - Snow Monkeys 🙉

Address - 2614-16 Sano, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0402, Japan Ambiance/Facilities - Home Highlights - Love the balcony Avg. Price per Person - 5000¥ Rating - 5

#Overseas#Travel in Japan Jigokudani Monkey Park was established in 1964 to protect local monkeys. Now many monkeys come here every day. ✅The monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park are composed of more than 200 Japanese macaques. The monkey babies and families playing in the snow are very cute, which also adds a unique style to Jigokudani.. Attracting tourists from all over the world Visitors come here to visit🤩🤩 ✅ Monkeys are world-famous for their unique behavior of bathing in hot springs and their ability to thrive in the deep snow of winter transportation It takes about 45 minutes by bus from Nagano Station to Kanbayashi Onsen, and then about 35 minutes on foot to reach Jigokudani Monkey Park

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

still wondering what and where about for this voming new year, anyone have an idea jusy drop in the box😎🤙 #vacationmode #beachiscalling

trip of ski in Nagano

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

#karuizawa

Nagano Prefecture, near the Alps Mountains in central Japan, has a superb view. There are many hot spring hotels and hotels in the hot springs and Yudanaka Onsen Township, a 50-minute drive from Nagano City. This time, a Japanese-style hot spring hotel on the river is simply overwhelming. Expected sticks, the entrance is the torrential water and the snow-capped mountains, the back door of the hotel is directly opposite the hot spring street. In the evening, climb the hill, breathe the fresh and natural cold air to enjoy the snow, eat the hot spring dishes at night and soak a soup, praise! The hotel also has a free Yudanaka station pick-up service and a car to Noji Park. Luggage can also be stored directly at the cafe next to the station. Next time I want to see a cherry blossom!

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.

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.

A complete guide to family skiing in Shiga Kogen for your first New Year trip🏂 For their first New Year trip, they finally made it to the long-awaited Nagano Shiga Kogen. Upon returning, they couldn't stop talking about the beautiful scenery. After calculating the expenses, I found it to be quite cost-effective. Here's a reference for those who are planning to go. 💰Overall Expenses ✈️Airfare: 4,000 for one adult and one child 🚄Shinkansen: Tokyo-Nagano 600 for one adult and one child 🚌Bus: Nagano Station-near the hotel 200 for one adult and one child 🏨Accommodation: Half board (breakfast and dinner) 600 🛍️Other expenses: 1,000 Total cost: Around 3,500💰 per person ❓Transportation Beijing-Tokyo Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station Transfer to a special bus to Shiga Kogen ❓Accommodation If you want to ski on different slopes on the east and west sides, it is recommended to stay in a hotel around the Shiga Kogen Grand Ski Area. Choose according to your budget. This time, they booked a hotel with friends, including half board (breakfast and dinner), which was cost-effective, but the environment was just average. ❓Ski Resort This time, they checked in at the Yakushiyama Ski Resort and the Yokoteyama Ski Resort. Dad 👨 said that if you only choose one ski resort, he strongly recommends Yokoteyama. The scenery is 💯. ❓Nearby Attractions Jigokudani Monkey Park, watch 🐒 bathe

| 3-Day Healing Hot Spring Itinerary Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's top three hot springs. It has long been ranked first in Japan's comprehensive hot spring rankings, and is a must-visit hot spring destination! Check out this 3-day itinerary to experience the charm of Kusatsu. Itinerary • Day 1: Arrive at Kusatsu Onsen → Yubatake → Sainokawara Park • Arrive at Kusatsu Onsen at noon, check in to your hotel, drop off your luggage, and take a short break. • Head straight to Yubatake, the heart of Kusatsu Onsen. A large amount of hot spring water gushes out every minute, creating a steamy wonderland. Stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the unique smell of sulfur. • In the evening, head to Sainokawara Park and soak your feet in the open-air hot spring pool to relieve your travel fatigue. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the park and watch the locals release lanterns into the river to pray for blessings. The atmosphere is amazing. • Day 2: Kusatsu Onsen's Highest Point (Mt. Shirane) → Snow Monkeys (Jigokudani Monkey Park) • Head to Mt. Shirane in the morning. At an altitude of 2,160 meters, it is an active volcano. Take the cable car to the top and enjoy the magnificent view of Kusatsu. The "Yugama" at the top of the mountain is the world's most acidic lake and is very impressive. • Head to Jigokudani Monkey Park in the afternoon to see the cute Japanese macaques soaking in the hot springs. Their furry bodies are immersed in the hot springs, and some even groom each other. It's a very healing sight. Be careful not to make loud noises so as not to disturb the monkeys. • Day 3: Kawara Park → Return • Visit Kawara Park again. This time, you can try the hot spring bath in the park, relax in the warm spring water, and enjoy the last moments of your hot spring experience. • Then pack your luggage, check out, and return home with wonderful memories. Food Recommendations • Onsen Manju: The onsen manju at Matsumura Manju Branch is very famous. The outer skin is soft, and the filling is sweet red bean paste. The taste is excellent. • Soba: Gunma is a major producer of wheat flour, and udon and soba are local specialties. We recommend Yasuragitei, where you can taste authentic soba. The signature duck soba has a rich broth and tender duck meat. Hot Spring Hotel Recommendations • Kusatsu Onsen Kei: Opened in 2019, this hotel has a modern design and is only a 3-minute walk from Yubatake. It has only seven suites, starting at 70 square meters, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. The hot spring water comes directly from the Jizo Onsen at Kusatsu Yubatake, so you can enjoy authentic Kusatsu Onsen without leaving your room. • Kusatsu Hotel: The main entrance retains its original appearance, full of historical charm, but the interior facilities are very modern. The hotel offers free shuttle service to the bus terminal, as well as foot baths and hot springs, so you can experience traditional Japanese accommodation. The hotel has an indoor bathhouse and an open-air hot spring, providing a great bathing experience. Kusatsu Onsen is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Plan your trip now! 💕

#tokyostroll Witness Japan’s famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, where wild Japanese macaques soak in steaming hot springs amid a snowy landscape. Getting There: 🚄 By Train: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano Station (~1.5 hours). Then, board the Nagaden Express Bus to the Snow Monkey Park stop (~40 min), followed by a scenic 30-minute forest walk to the park. What to Expect: 🐒 Wild Monkeys Up Close – Watch the monkeys relax in natural hot springs, completely unfazed by human visitors. ❄️ Best Time to Visit – Winter (Dec–March) offers the most stunning snowy scenery, but the park is open year-round. 🌲 Beautiful Nature Walk – The trail to the park is a serene stroll through a peaceful forest. Top Tips: ✔️ Arrive early to beat the crowds. ✔️ Wear good shoes as the path can be snowy and muddy. ✔️ Stop by Yudanaka Onsen after your visit for a relaxing soak. A magical winter escape just a few hours from Tokyo!

#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.