Jigokudani Monkey Park
地獄谷野猿公苑
The only place in the world where wild Japanese macaques bathe in hot springs. The winter "snow monkey" bathing scene is famous worldwide.
Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in a gorge upstream of the Yokoyu River in Yamanouchi Town. In winter, wild Japanese macaques come into the park's outdoor hot springs to warm up. The "Snow Monkey" image, with monkeys soaking with their eyes closed and snow on their heads, has graced countless magazine covers. The monkeys are not afraid of people, but touching, feeding and using selfie sticks to get close are prohibited. Admission is about ¥800. From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Electric Railway to Yudanaka Station, then transfer to a bus to "Kambayashi Onsen" or "Jigokudani Yaen-koen Guchi." From there, walk about 30 minutes along a forest trail. The snow makes the path slippery in winter, so wear non-slip shoes. In winter, there is also a direct "Snow Monkey Express" bus from Nagano Station.
Opening hours
Roughly 09:00–16:00 (winter) / 08:30–17:00 (summer)
Nearby sights
- Shibu & Yudanaka Onsen
- SORA terrace (Ryuoo Ski Park)
- Shiga Kōgen
- Higashidateyama Alpine Botanical Garden
- Ōnuma Pond
- Mount Yokote