Discover the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Yaen Koen
Explore the enchanting world of the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Yaen Koen in Nagano, Japan
A brief summary to Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
- 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Hirao, Shimotakai District, Nagano, 381-0401, JP
- +81269-33-4379
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Nagano, Japan, the Snow Monkey Park, also known as Jigokudani Yaen Koen, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers. This unique location is a nature preserve and animal park where visitors can witness the famous Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, relaxing in their natural hot spring baths. Surrounded by serene snow-covered landscapes, the Snow Monkey Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these playful primates. The park's setting, with steam rising from the hot springs against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, creates a truly magical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. Visitors to the Snow Monkey Park can observe the monkeys up close as they groom each other, soak in the warm waters, and interact with one another. It's a truly unique and memorable experience that highlights the harmony between wildlife and nature in this stunning location.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to see the snow monkeys enjoying the hot springs without the crowds.
- Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as the park can be chilly and slippery in winter.
- Respect the monkeys' space and avoid feeding or touching them during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transportation
From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station. From Nagano Station, transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line and get off at Yudanaka Station. From Yudanaka Station, take a bus to Kanbayashi Onsen, the nearest bus stop to Snow Monkey Park. From Kanbayashi Onsen, it is a 30-minute walk to the entrance of the park.
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Car
From Tokyo, take the Chuo Expressway to the Nagano Expressway. Take the Shiga-Kusatsu Road to the Yudanaka Exit. From there, follow the signs to Snow Monkey Park. Parking is available near the park entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
- Jigokudani Funsen Fountain
- Jigokudani Valley
- Shibu Hot Spring
- Public bath No.9 O-yu
- Kokuya Ryokan Shibu Onsen
- Shigakogen Sun Valley Ski Area
- Shiga Kogen Mountain Resort
- Shiga Kogen
- Yudanaka Onsen Seifuso
- YAMABOKU Wild Snow Park
- Gansho-in
- Jokoji
- Hokusai Museum
- Takai Kouzan Memorial Hall
- Kozan Takai Memorial Museum
Landmarks nearby to Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
- Heiwa Kannon Statue, DaihiDen Temple
- 日本最高所 水準点標石 (No.10809)
- Highest Point of Japan’s National Routes
- Yugama
- Kusatsu Hot spring Tourist Association.
- 温泉グランピング シマブルー(Shima Blue Cafe)
- Shima Tamura
- Sekizenkan Kashoutei
- Shima Onsen
- Shima Grand Hotel
- Kashiwaya Café
- Naeba Ski Resort
- Toshimaya
- Shima Yamaguchikan
- Kawanakajima Old Battlefield