The Jigokudani Monkey Park, otherwise known as the Snow Monkey Park, is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, and is renowned for its population of wild Japanese macaques – commonly referred to as snow monkeys. Established in 1964, the Jigokudani Monkey Park was created to protect these macaques in an effort to deter them from encroaching on nearby farmlands.
The park is situated in the Jigokudani valley, which translates to “Hell Valley” due to its steep cliffs and steam-emitting hot springs. Despite the harsh name, the area provides a safe haven for the macaques, who descend from the surrounding forests to warm themselves in the hot springs during the cold season. The park is famously known as the place where monkeys can be seen bathing in the hot springs, with their pink faces starkly contrasting the white background.
The park is accessible year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Winter is particularly popular – from around November through to March -, as the sight of snow-covered landscapes with monkeys soaking in hot springs is both iconic and picturesque.
To reach the park, visitors typically take a bus from Nagano to the Kanbayashi Onsen area, followed by a scenic two kilometer walk through the forest to the park entrance. Before heading to the Monkey Park, ensure that you have appropriate walking attire and clothing for the short hike.
The Jigokudani Monkey park is one of the few places in Japan that you will get to see monkeys up close and in the wild like this. While the macaques are accustomed to human presence, it’s important for visitors to adhere to park guidelines: avoid feeding or touching the monkeys, do not stare directly into their eyes, and maintain a respectful distance.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 8:30am - 5:00pm ( 9:00am - 4:00pm, November through March)
- 800JPY
- Average Time Spent: 1.5 Hours
- Official Website
Accessing the Jigokudani Monkey Park
Getting to the Jigokudani Monkey Park can be a little challenging with the use of a private car. However, it can be done, but we highly recommend that you have a reasonable level of fitness to do the walk as the easiest route to take does have about 45 minutes of walking required.
You will need to take a bus from Yudanaka Station, to Kanbayashi Onsen, which will cost 310JPY one way, and will be about a 10 minute ride depending on road conditions. From Kanbayashi Onsen, then the walk begins into the park. For your safety, we recommend that you have good hiking shoes year-rounds, but especially when snow covers the path.
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Where to Stay in Nagano
Toyoko Inn Nagano-eki Higashi-guchi
Sakaeya Ryokan
Experience timeless Japanese hospitality at Sakaeya Ryokan: soothing hot springs, exquisite cuisine, and serene traditional rooms in Nagano.
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Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku: Luxurious retreat near Snow Monkey Park with natural hot springs, elegant rooms, and breathtaking mountain views
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