A Winter Wonderland
Visiting the Snow Monkeys of Nagano, Japan
Nestled deep in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture lies one of Japan's most enchanting sights: wild snow monkeys soaking in natural hot springs. Watching these Japanese macaques (nicknamed "snow monkeys") relax in steaming onsen as snow falls around them is a magical experience that feels like stepping into another world.
If you're planning a Japan tour, especially in winter, a stop at Jigokudani Monkey Park is an unforgettable highlight. Here's how to make the most of your visit — including the best time to go, how to get there, and how to fit it into a 7 days Japan tour package.
📅Best Time to See the Snow Monkeys
While the park is open year-round, the best time to visit is from December to March, when Nagano is blanketed in snow. This is when the monkeys famously soak in the hot springs to keep warm, creating those postcard-perfect scenes.
Spring and autumn can also be beautiful — with vibrant foliage and fewer crowds — but if your dream is to see the monkeys surrounded by snow, winter is the ideal season.
🏞️Jigokudani Monkey Park: What to Expect
Located near the onsen town of Yudanaka, Jigokudani ("Hell Valley") gets its name from the steaming geothermal vents that rise from the frozen landscape. A short 30–40 minute forest walk leads you to the park's hot spring area, where dozens of monkeys gather daily.
You'll be able to stand just a few meters away from them as they bathe, groom each other, and play in the snow. Unlike many animal attractions, the monkeys here are wild and roam freely — they choose to visit the baths because they enjoy them, not because they're forced to.
💡 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes in winter, as the trail can be icy. Also, bring a camera — but keep a respectful distance, as these are wild animals.
🏨Where to Stay
The nearby towns of Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are charming places to stay overnight. Both offer traditional ryokan inns with hot spring baths, perfect for soaking after a day in the snow. Shibu Onsen is particularly atmospheric, with narrow streets and public baths dating back centuries.
Alternatively, you can base yourself in Nagano City, which has more transport links and accommodation options, and make the snow monkey park a day trip.
🚆How to Get There
- From Tokyo: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (approx. 1.5 hours), then transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station. From there, it's a short bus or taxi ride to the park entrance.
- From Kyoto or Osaka: Travel to Nagano via Tokyo or Kanazawa, then follow the same route as above.
Many Japan tours include transportation and entry tickets to Jigokudani Monkey Park, making the visit stress-free.
🧭Suggested 7-Day Japan Tour Itinerary (Including Snow Monkeys)
If you're building a 7 days Japan tour package, here's a sample itinerary that blends classic sights with a winter wildlife adventure:
- Day 1–2: Tokyo – Explore temples, neighborhoods, and markets
- Day 3–4: Nagano – Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, stay in a traditional ryokan
- Day 5–7: Kyoto – Immerse yourself in cultural landmarks and cuisine
This itinerary balances city life, nature, and history — giving travelers a well-rounded taste of Japan.
🌨️Why It's Worth the Trip
The snow monkeys of Nagano aren't just a cute photo opportunity — they're a rare chance to see wild animals behaving naturally, in a setting that's uniquely Japanese. Whether you're on a guided Japan tour or exploring independently, it's an experience that stays with you long after the snow melts.
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Ready to plan your winter adventure? Include a stop at Jigokudani Monkey Park in your next trip — and discover why travelers from around the world call it one of the highlights of their journey through Japan.