Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
Discovering the Enchantment of Snow Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park: Witness Nature's Wonders
Observe wild Japanese Macaques in their natural habitat at Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its snow monkeys bathing in hot springs.
The Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a unique opportunity to observe wild Japanese Macaques, also known as Snow Monkeys, in their natural habitat. Famous for their habit of bathing in natural hot springs during the winter, these monkeys have become an iconic symbol of Japan. Located in the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, the park provides a rare glimpse into the lives of these fascinating creatures.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jigokudani Valley
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Hirao, Yamanochi, Hirao, Shimotakai District, Nagano, 381-0401, JP
Monday
9 am-4 pm
Tuesday
9 am-4 pm
Wednesday
9 am-4 pm
Thursday
9 am-4 pm
Friday
9 am-4 pm
Saturday
9 am-4 pm
Sunday
9 am-4 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (approximately 45 minutes, ¥1290). From Yudanaka Station, take a local bus to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop (10 minutes, ¥310). From the bus stop, it's a 30-40 minute walk to the park entrance. Alternatively, take the Nagaden Express Bus from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop (40 minutes, ¥2000) and walk 30 minutes to the park. A Snow Monkey Pass (¥4000) covers the train, bus, and park entrance.
Walking
From Shibu Onsen, it is possible to walk to the paid parking lot near the monkey park in approximately 45-60 minutes when there is no snow. From the parking lot, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the park entrance. Note that the road to the parking lot from Shibu Onsen is narrow and closed in winter.
Taxi
From Yudanaka Station, a taxi to Jigokudani Monkey Park costs approximately ¥6000-¥7500 and takes about 40 minutes. A taxi can also take you to the Jigokudani Parking (¥500 for standard-sized car), a 15-minute walk from the park; call 0269-33-5733 for more information.
Local tips
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Check the park's live camera online to see if the monkeys are in the hot spring before you visit, especially during warmer months.
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Wear sturdy footwear, especially in winter, as the path to the park can be slippery.
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Avoid touching or feeding the monkeys, as it is prohibited and can disrupt their natural behavior.
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Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
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Purchase a Snow Monkey Pass for cost-effective travel from Nagano Station, including park entrance and transportation.
Discover more about Jigokudani Valley
Jigokudani Monkey Park, nestled in the valley of the Yokoyu River in Nagano Prefecture, is a remarkable destination where visitors can witness wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, in their natural environment. Established in 1964, the park was created to provide a sanctuary for these monkeys, whose habitat was threatened by the development of ski resorts and deforestation.The name 'Jigokudani,' meaning 'Hell's Valley,' comes from the area's rugged terrain, steep cliffs, and the steam and hot water that emerge from crevices in the frozen ground. This geothermal activity provides the natural hot springs where the monkeys famously bathe, especially during the winter months when snow blankets the region.The park's monkeys are accustomed to humans, allowing visitors to observe their behavior up close. It's a fascinating experience to watch their social interactions as they groom each other, play, and of course, relax in the warm waters. While it's tempting to interact with the monkeys, it is prohibited to touch or feed them.While the winter months offer the most iconic views of the monkeys bathing in the hot springs, the park is open year-round and each season brings its own unique charm. In the green season, you might spot newborn baby monkeys, while autumn brings vibrant foliage to the surrounding forests.
A brief summary to Jigokudani Valley
Use Jigokudani Valley as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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