[2024 Yamanouchi Attraction] Travel Guide for Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) (Updated Dec)

A place where monkeys soak in hot springs

#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.

A Serene Winter: An Encounter with Snow Monkeys in Jigokudani

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.

Journey to the snow monkeys! 🇯🇵

#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

Life’s checklist - Nagano’s Snow Monkey Park

One of my life’s checklist done!! ❤️ “Jigokudani Yaen-koen (altitude 850 meters) is located in the Valley of Yokoyu River sourced from Shiga-Kogen of the Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park in northern part of Nagano prefecture” Now that’s ✅, oh my gosh was this place hard to get to. 4hours each way from Tokyo is no joke seriously - train Shinkansen train train bus - it was tedious! So don’t be like me and take a day tour la 🇯🇵 Once you are there, you also need to be cardio-fit in order to actually reach the park. The hilly climb from the bus stop and then 1.6km trek from the bus stop to the entrance of the park is just the beginning - you really need to want to go there 🫢 But once there, those monkeys are super cute la. 🙈 the big ones, the furry ones, the little ones - to be amongst them while they ignore you and carry on with their lives is surreal. Once in a lifetime worth! 🍀 Of course they are called snow monkeys coz visitors love to visit during winter when the snow falls on the furry coats but since I’m here during autumn why not make it an autumn monkey trip right? 🤣

Getting There - Nagano Attractions - Snow Monkeys 🙉

The Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani

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

Monkey Paradise in Winter, Tokyo

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.

Christmas in Nagano, Japan

#magicalxmastrip Nagano, surrounded by the Japanese Alps, is a magical destination for a Christmas getaway. The town is famous for its snowy landscapes, hot springs, and unique holiday traditions. Visit the Zenko-ji Temple illuminated with festive lights or take a trip to the Jigokudani Monkey Park to see snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Stay at a traditional ryokan for an authentic Japanese experience. Nagano’s serene beauty and cultural charm make it a unique #magicalxmastrip choice. Don’t forget to try the local soba noodles!

Snow monkeys spa day!

Nice time at the snow monkeys park at Nagano Japan. This was from back in early December 2023 and little disappointed didn’t get the snow weather but dry walk path was definitely easier to work with (snowing 2 weeks after our trip 🥲). Do not approach these monkeys as they’re wild and can get aggressive just enjoy take pictures and the beautiful scenery. #japan #snowmonkeys #nagano #snow

Spotting Red-Faced Monkeys in the Snowy Onsen Valley

Spotting Red-Faced Monkeys in the Snowy Onsen Valley 🐒 Jigokudani Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) Or Snow Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture, Chubu Region. . Jigokudani Monkey Park (地獄谷野猿公苑) is an open monkey park in the midst of nature, which is very special during winter when we can see Japanese macaques soaking in the onsen in the snowy forest amidst the mountains in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. It is also known as Snow Monkey Park. The most popular time to visit here is during winter when the monkeys come to soak in the onsen with their bright red faces. This is a great place to include in a family trip plan, where you can relax and unwind. It is recommended to stay in Nagano City beforehand. It is not suitable for a day trip from Nagoya.

Nagano's Snow Monkeys: A Winter Wonderland

#japantrip Discover the enchanting world of Nagano's snow monkeys in Japan's serene Jigokudani Monkey Park. Nestled in the snowy mountains, this unique sanctuary offers a rare glimpse of Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs, surrounded by pristine winter landscapes. The journey through the forest to the park is a serene, snowy trek, adding to the magical experience. Watch these playful creatures as they soak and socialize, seemingly oblivious to the cold. Nagano's snow monkeys offer an unforgettable, heartwarming adventure in one of Japan's most picturesque regions. #NaganoAdventures #SnowMonkeys #JapanTravel #WinterWonderland #ExploreNagano #MonkeyPark #NatureLovers #JapanNature #WildlifeExperience #TravelJapan

Breathtaking scenery with easy trails

It’s a nice tourist attraction. Has a bit of foul smell but it’s from the sulfur, don’t stay too long in one spot but definitely come. There are lots of different walking paths; I took perhaps the longest route around and finished with the foot bath. Took us around an hour and a half from the start to see everything in the area. The footpath can seem a little far but it is worth it! The river stones were a beautiful color. But a lot of the walking paths are shut in winter. #瑞生尖沙咀酒店

Snow Monkeys!

The hike to see the snow monkeys in Nagano, Japan, is a unique and rewarding experience. Starting at the trailhead in Yamanouchi, the walk to the Jigokudani Monkey Park takes about 30 minutes through a picturesque forest. The path is well-maintained but can be slippery in winter, so proper footwear is essential. As you approach the park, you'll spot the Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, soaking in the natural hot springs. These monkeys are famous for their human-like behavior and enjoy the warm waters especially during the cold winter months. The hike is accessible year-round, offering a serene and scenic journey to one of Japan's most unique wildlife encounters. #gohiking

Cute Snow Monkeys at Snow Monkey Park, Nagano, Japan 🇯🇵

#japantrip 📍Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen), Nagano, Japan Visited the popular Snow Monkey Park in Nagano of Japan and this is indeed once in a lifetime experience! It was quite a long and steep hike to the park, but the walking pathway was really well maintained. We were there during winter and the entire place was filled with fluffy white snow, which might be a little slippery so be sure to wear comfortable and suitable shoes. The snow monkeys were cute and not offensive. Some of the snow no monkeys soaked their bodies in the hot onsen pool while some were just scattered around in the park. We could get really close to the snow monkeys and this experience was just amazing!

Jigokudani Park

#japantrip This is a really well run and maintained park. The monkeys are amazingly docile because of the complete lack of interaction with humans over the years. In winter, they bathe a lot in the pool constructed for them which is very cute. You can get very close so there's lots of opportunities for great pictures. It's a long cold walk, but the path up the mountain is well maintained. It's well worth it! You don't often get the opportunity to see nature this up close and personal. They close at 4PM so don't start your walk too late!

Japan's Monkey Kings and Queens 🐒♨️

Imagine spending your day relaxing in an open-air hot onsen in the snow covered Japanese Alps in the height of winter. It's such an exquisite and luxurious experience that beckons many of us to visit Japan in winter! And yet, these monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park get to do it everyday! Nestled in the snowy mountains, the park offers a unique, luxurious glimpse into the lives of Japanese macaques. Watching the monkeys leisurely soak in the hot springs, eye closed was so delightful and certainly made me slightly envious! The hike to the park, though a bit challenging in winter, added to the adventure, with beautiful, snow-covered landscapes along the way. The park is well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring the monkeys are safe and undisturbed. Observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, surrounded by stunning winter scenery, made for an unforgettable and heartwarming trip. #japantrip

Jigokudani Monkey Park

#familytrips2024 Nestled within the rugged terrain of Japan's Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys. As the family ventured into this natural sanctuary, they were greeted by the sight of steam rising from hot springs amid snow-covered landscapes, creating an otherworldly ambiance that seemed straight out of a storybook. Observing the playful antics of the monkeys as they soaked in the warm waters, the family felt a deep connection to nature and the resilience of life in even the harshest of environments. Looking ahead, the family dreams of embarking on a safari adventure in the heart of Africa's Serengeti, where vast savannahs stretch to the horizon and majestic wildlife roams free. Imagining themselves traversing the plains in search of lions, elephants, and giraffes, they anticipate a journey filled with awe-inspiring encounters and unforgettable moments in the wild. With the rhythm of the African bush as their guide, they eagerly embrace the opportunity to explore one of the world's last great wildernesses and forge lasting memories amidst nature's wonders.

Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi

#hiddengems Welcome to the captivating world of Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi, Japan, where humans and snow monkeys coexist in a breathtaking natural setting. As a nature enthusiast, I recently had the privilege of visiting this unique park and experiencing the wonder of observing wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. Nestled in the scenic mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Jigokudani Monkey Park is famous for its hot springs, which attract a troop of snow monkeys seeking warmth during the cold winter months. As you wander through the snow-covered forests and rocky terrain of the park, you'll encounter these fascinating creatures lounging in the steaming pools, grooming each other, and frolicking in the snow. But perhaps the most magical moment at Jigokudani Monkey Park is witnessing the monkeys' playful antics and social interactions up close. From the adorable antics of newborn babies to the hierarchical dynamics of the troop, every interaction offers a glimpse into the complex and fascinating world of these intelligent animals. Beyond the monkeys, Jigokudani Monkey Park is also a haven for nature lovers, with stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and pristine waterfalls waiting to be explored. Whether you're hiking along scenic trails, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the hot springs, or simply marveling at the beauty of the surrounding landscape, there's no shortage of natural wonders to discover in this enchanting park. With its breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife encounters, and serene atmosphere, Jigokudani Monkey Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat into nature or hoping to witness the fascinating behavior of wild snow monkeys, this park offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you awe-inspired and rejuvenated. #JigokudaniMonkeyPark #Yamanouchi #Japan #SnowMonkeys #WildlifeEncounters #NaturalBeauty #HotSprings #TravelInspiration #Wanderlust #BucketListDestination #NatureLovers #WildlifeWatching #ScenicHikes #TravelGoals #MagicalExperience #DreamDestination

Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, also known as the Snow Monkey Park, is a public park located in the Jigokudani valley of Yamanouchi, near Nagoya tourist attractions. It is famous for the troops of Japanese snow monkeys that reside in the area. These monkeys are often seen soaking in the natural onsens, which is a sight that attracts tourists from all over the world to visit in large numbers. The best time to visit is during the winter season when the valley is covered in snow and the monkeys descend to the onsens to escape the cold.

Snow monkey park in Nagano

Snow Monkey Park

#2024wish Snow Monkeys Park offers a unique, albeit slightly crowded, experience. The park, though small in size, is a treasure trove for nature lovers. The pathway to the park is scenic, leading to the extraordinary sight of snow monkeys in their natural hot spring habitat. Despite the limited space occasionally feeling crowded, the opportunity to observe these photogenic monkeys up close is unparalleled. The staff's dedication is commendable, and the facilities are well-maintained. Overall, it's a must-visit for an unforgettable glimpse into the serene world of these charming creatures. A truly remarkable, photogenic encounter! I wish to travel more in 2024

Bathing with the Snow Monkeys in Nagano

#2024wish #familytrip #winter #japan #nagano Must visit park in Nagano during the winter. The beautiful snow monkeys bathe in the Japanese onsen when they’re cold!

Monkey see monkey do

#2024wish No trip is complete without dipping in the onsen in Japan! Look how amazing these monkeys are alike to human enjoying onsen in the cold winter! Thankful for the snow storm to make these monkey the legendary snow monkeys instead of plain old macritchie monkeys 🤣 #Winter #Japan #Onsen

Snow Monkey Encounter at Jigokudani Yaen Koen

Don't miss this hidden paradise if you're in Nagano! The snow monkeys, bathing in natural hot springs, create an enchanting sight. The serene landscape and playful interactions left me in awe. It's a magical experience that connects you to nature's wonders. For the accommodation, we stayed at Shimaya Ryokan at the nearby Yudanaka onsen town. The elderly couple owner was so kind to fetch us at the Yudanaka train station and provide free transportation to Snow Monkey park on the next day. The hot spring bath at the ryokan was very lovely too! You can rent the rotenburo at the ryokan for private use, the price was quite affordable. For dinner, we went to the nearby Matsumi, a humble japanese style diner with Showa-era feel, the food was prepared fresh by the owner and it was very delicious! The price was very affordable for young travelers like us, and it seems like they're popular among the locals. #hotspring #nationalpark #travel #jigokudani #snowmonkey #nagano #onsenhotel #nature #wintertrip #japan

Snow monkey cutness overload

Jigokudani Yaen Koen monkey park is located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan and is known for its hot springs and the Japanese Macaque monkeys that inhabit the area. After a brief and very picturesque walk of about 2km through the forest pathway, visitors can observe the monkeys up close. Monkeys here are calm and do not mind visitor presence and simply go on about their day, often mingling in-between the visitors which allows you to observe their behavior up close without disturbing them. Apart from the monkeys, one must note the natural beauty of the surrounding area: stunning snow-capped mountains and thick forests, which creates a tranquil atmosphere and a perfect setting for enjoying the natural beauty of rural Japan. An unforgettable experience of the natural beauty of the area, combined with the unique opportunity to observe these fascinating animals in their natural habitat - all for a modest fee of 800JPY for an adult ticket.

Monkey in Onsen in the winter!

from the entrance, it’s about 1.6km (30-45min) hike depending on your pace. However the path is very gradual and easy to walk. During winter, you might need crampons (spikes to attach on shoe) as it might be slippery to walk. But we did it without anyway and practice extra caution. The ticket to the park is 800yen and you can get a close-up view on the monkeys in the Onsen. However, there were few monkeys as when we were there, it wasn’t very cold and they were just out chilling instead being in the Onsen

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Apart from the adorable snow monkeys, the 1.6km forest trail from the entrance to the hot spring was another highlight of Jigokudani Monkey Park for me. With snow along the well-marked path surrounded by towering pine trees, everywhere we looked at was picturesque enough to be the perfect background for a docufilm.