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Witness the magic of wild Japanese Macaques bathing in steaming hot springs amidst the snowy Northern Alps
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Journey into the heart of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to witness one of nature's most unique spectacles at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, in the valley of the Yokoyu River, wild Japanese Macaques (known locally as Snow Monkeys) descend from the steep cliffs and forest to sit in the warm waters of the natural hot springs. While the monkeys inhabit the park year-round, the winter months transform the valley into a magical white wonderland where steam rises from the pools and snow caps the monkeys' heads. Accessing the park involves a scenic forest trek, rewarding travelers with up-close encounters with these intelligent primates as they groom, play, and relax in their thermal bath—the only place in the world where monkeys are known to bathe in hot springs.
We work exclusively with licensed Nagano operators like Snow Monkey Resorts to ensure safety and authenticity
Make informed decisions based on thousands of verified reviews from visitors who have trekked the trail before you
Our tours efficiently combine the Monkey Park with Zenko-ji Temple, Sake tasting, or Shiga Kogen skiing to maximize your day
Reaching the park involves multiple trains and buses—our tours provide direct transport so you can relax
Gain deep cultural insights and wildlife knowledge from English-speaking guides who know the monkeys' behavior best
Enjoy peace of mind with free cancellation policies on most tours up to 24 hours before departure
Winter (Dec-Mar) for snow scenes|Spring (Apr-Jun) for baby monkeys|Autumn (Oct-Nov) for foliage
Waterproof snow boots|Thermal layers|Down jacket|Gloves and beanie|Crampons (can be rented or bought locally)|Sunglasses for snow glare
The park was established in 1964. Before that, monkeys were observed encroaching on human hot springs at a nearby ryokan.
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Please verify the specific policy for your selected tour.
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Real experiences from real travelers
The walk was snowy but beautiful. Seeing the monkeys so close was surreal. Our guide made sure everyone was safe on the slippery path.
We booked the tour with Zenko-ji temple. The lunch was delicious and the sake tasting was a nice bonus. The monkeys were adorable!
Be warned, the walk is a solid 40 minutes and very icy. Rent the boots at the shop! The monkeys were amazing though.
Trying to get here by public transport seemed like a nightmare. The tour bus was warm and comfortable. Highly recommended.
We went in early December and there was already snow. The monkeys were in the bath. A bucket list experience for sure.
Very busy during the holidays, but the guides managed it well. The snow monkeys are exactly like the photos.
Even before the snow, the park is beautiful. The walk through the forest was peaceful and the monkeys were very active.
We did the private snowshoe tour. Totally worth the extra money to see the forest away from the crowds.
Everything you need to know for your journey
The best time is winter (December to March) when temperatures are low and snow is on the ground, as the monkeys are most likely to be bathing to stay warm.
No, the park is not wheelchair accessible. The 1.6km trail is unpaved, includes stairs, and becomes narrow and icy in winter.
The walk is mostly flat but takes about 30-40 minutes each way. In winter, it can be slippery and snowy, requiring caution and good footwear.
No. These are wild animals. You must keep a distance of 1-2 meters, avoid eye contact, and never feed or touch them.
No, the hot spring in the park is exclusively for the monkeys. Humans cannot enter the water.
In winter, you need waterproof snow boots with good grip, warm layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Crampons (spikes) are highly recommended.
No, the last toilets are located at the trail entrance/parking area. There are no facilities at the observation pool itself.
Tours generally run in all weather conditions unless the road or trail is officially closed by authorities.
Most full-day tours include a traditional Japanese lunch. Check the specific 'What's Included' section of your chosen tour.
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