Witness the enchanting Japanese Macaques bathing in hot springs with the comfort, privacy, and flexibility of a personal guide and luxury vehicle.
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Escape the crowds and strict bus schedules with a private tour to the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park. A private experience transforms this bucket-list adventure, offering you the comfort of a heated private vehicle and the undivided attention of a knowledgeable local guide. Instead of rushing to catch public transport, you can explore the snowy forest trails at your own pace, spend extra time photographing the macaques in their natural onsen habitat, and customize your day with add-ons like the historic Zenko-ji Temple, a traditional Soba noodle lunch, or a sake tasting session. Perfect for families, photographers, and those seeking a stress-free winter escape.
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Our partners offer flexible itineraries allowing you to adjust stops based on your interests and weather
Winter (Dec-Mar) for snow scenes|Spring (Apr-May) for cherry blossoms and babies|Autumn (Oct-Nov) for foliage
Heavy winter coat (down jacket)|Waterproof snow boots with grip|Thermal underlayers|Gloves, scarf, and warm hat|Sunglasses (snow glare can be bright)
The park was established in 1964. Zenko-ji Temple dates back to the 7th century and houses the first Buddhist statue brought to Japan.
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Please check the specific policy of your selected tour.
Share your experience: #snowmonkeys #jigokudani #nagano #japantravel #wildlifephotography
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Real experiences from real travelers
Booking a private tour was the best decision. Our driver was waiting at Nagano station and the car was so warm and comfortable. The walk to the monkeys was magical, and having a guide meant we knew exactly where to step to avoid ice. The monkeys were adorable!
We did the full day tour including Zenko-ji temple. Our guide Ken was fantastic—his English was perfect and he knew so much history. The private van made moving between sites effortless in the snow.
The monkeys are amazing to see. Just be warned the walk is quite long and was icy when we went. I was glad our guide suggested renting snow boots at the shop nearby. The private transfer back to our hotel was a lifesaver.
I booked a private tour to have enough time for photography without rushing. My guide understood the light and took me to the best spots. We arrived early before the big bus groups. Highly recommended.
We have two kids (8 and 10) and the private tour allowed us to go at our own pace. The guide was great with the children. The monkeys were the highlight, but the Soba lunch was also delicious.
From Tokyo to Nagano and back. The logistics were flawless. The snow monkeys are a must-see, and seeing them soak in the hot springs is surreal. Worth every penny for the private comfort.
The forest walk is beautiful but cold! Dress warmly. The monkeys were right there in the bath. Our driver was very safe on the snowy roads.
A truly unique experience. The private tour gave us flexibility to stop at a sake brewery on the way back. The monkeys are very calm and used to humans.
Everything you need to know for your journey
The best time is during winter (December to March) when temperatures are low and snow is on the ground, as the monkeys are most likely to be bathing in the hot springs to stay warm.
The walk is approximately 1.6km (1 mile) one way and takes about 30-40 minutes. It is a mostly flat but unpaved forest trail that can be slippery, muddy, or icy in winter. There is a steep staircase just before the entrance.
No. These are wild animals. You must not touch, feed, or make eye contact with the monkeys. Maintaining a safe distance is required for your safety and theirs.
No, the park is not wheelchair accessible due to the unpaved forest trail and stairs. Travelers with limited mobility may find the trek difficult.
Wear warm, waterproof winter clothing and sturdy snow boots or hiking shoes with good grip. The temperature can drop below freezing. Crampons (spikes) are often helpful in mid-winter.
Yes, private tours are excellent for families as they allow you to move at your own pace. However, parents should be mindful of the 30-minute walk and cold temperatures.
Tours generally run in rain or snow. In fact, snow makes the experience more magical! In cases of extreme blizzards where roads close, the operator will contact you for rescheduling or refunds.
Yes, several private tour options include pickup from Tokyo or meet-and-greet at Nagano Station after you arrive by Shinkansen.
It depends on the specific package. Many full-day private tours include a traditional Japanese lunch (often Soba or Sushi), while shorter half-day options might not. Check the specific tour details.
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