Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Local Guide
Yamanochi, JP
91% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Witness snow monkeys bathing in hot springs
- Explore the dynamic landscape of Jigokudani Fountain
- Observe monkeys lazing and frolicking in the mountain and forest
- Experience the historic and attractive hot spring town of Shibu Onsen
- Enjoy a knowledgeable local guide throughout the tour
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Duration 3 hours 15 minutes
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Small Group Tour (max 8)
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Includes bus tickets
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Professional English guide
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Foot spa experience included
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All fees & taxes included
Embark on an unforgettable adventure and witness the incredible sight of the "snow monkeys" in their natural habitat at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Dive into the world of these fascinating creatures as they soak in the hot springs to keep warm during the freezing winter months. Marvel at the unique behavior that made them famous, even gracing the cover of Life magazine in 1970. Your knowledgeable local guide will take you through the scenic Yokoyu River Valley, where the park is nestled amidst snowy mountains and steaming natural fountains. Immerse yourself in the dynamic landscape and capture memorable moments as the monkeys frolic and laze around in the nearby mountain and forest. Complete your journey with a visit to the historic and charming Shibu Onsen, a traditional hot spring town that exudes an old-world charm. Book now for an extraordinary experience that will leave you in awe.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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3 hours 15 minutes
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the enchanting Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a local guide, and witness the playful snow monkeys in their natural hot spring habitat.
Included
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OtherProfessional guide -
OtherRound trip bus tickets from Yudanaka station
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OtherAll Fees and Taxes
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OtherFoot Spa
Excluded
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OtherHotel pickup and drop-off -
OtherFood and drinks, unless specified
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Private transportationTaxi / Private Car or Bus
Meeting Point
The guide will waiting for you at the ticket gate of Yudanaka station.
Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401 , Japan
End Point
The guide will waiting for you at the ticket gate of Yudanaka station.
Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401 , Japan
What to expect
Yamanouchi Information Center
The tour starts from this station.
10 minutes
Yamanouchi Information Center
This tourist information center is pretty small, but interesting and has quite good information for tourists. You can take a map or brochure for free.
Jigokudani Fountain is blowing high. Jigokudani means Hell Valley in Japanese, Jigokudani Fountain is designated as a national natural monument. The hot spring that gushes from the bottom of the river is a natural fountain that can be up to 20 meters high. It’s dynamic landscape is also great!
Located in the Yokoyu River Valley at an altitude of 850m, the Jigokudani Yaen Koen is known as "Hell Valley" due to the steep cliffs and steam emitting from the springs. It's buried in snow for a third of the year but is a paradise for the monkeys of Nagano area as they enjoy bathing in the hot springs to warm up.
40 minutes
Admission Included
Enza Cafe & Ramen Enza
If you're feeling a bit peckish while waiting for the bus to Yudanaka Station, we recommend grabbing some coffee or apple pie for takeout at this café here.
5 minutes
Kaede no Yu
Known as ‘ashi-yu’ in Japanese, the foot spa can be used free of charge and offers simple relaxation when awaiting your train. Simply take your shoes and socks off, roll-up your pants and rest your feet in the thermal water. After a day of exploring the monkey park, it’s amazing how much this simple action refreshes your body and reinvigorates you for the journey ahead.
15 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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A maximum of 8 people per booking -
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
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Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in and do not bring heavy baggage because you will walk the mountain paths
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking. -
Grab takeout coffee at nearby café.
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Visit Kaede no Yu foot spa post-tour.
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Check out Yamanouchi Information Center.
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Enjoy local delicacies in Yudanaka area.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Knowledgeable Local Guide is a captivating tour that allows you to witness the fascinating behavior of snow monkeys in their natural habitat. Located in Nagano, Japan, Jigokudani Yaen-koen is home to hundreds of snow monkeys who spend their days soaking in the mountainous hot springs. This unique behavior gained international attention when they appeared on the cover of Life magazine in the U.S. in 1970. Additionally, during the 1998 Winter Olympic Games held in Nagano, the park attracted athletes, media, and tourists from around the world.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect an unforgettable experience observing the snow monkeys in action. Witness their playful interactions and observe their grooming rituals as they soak in the hot springs. You'll also have the opportunity to see them lazing or frolicking on the nearby mountains and forests. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide, you'll gain insights into the behavior and habits of these fascinating creatures.Who is this for?
This tour is suitable for nature enthusiasts, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a unique and memorable experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, the snow monkeys will captivate visitors of all ages. The tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming visitors from all backgrounds and interests.Why book this?
By booking this tour, you will have the opportunity to witness a truly enchanting sight and gain a deeper understanding of the snow monkeys' way of life. The expertise of the local guide ensures a comprehensive and informative experience, allowing you to appreciate the monkeys' behavior and the significance of the hot springs. This tour provides a rare opportunity to connect with nature and witness a spectacle that has fascinated people from all over the world.Good to know
It is important to note that snow monkeys do not soak in the hot springs during the warm season, as they primarily bathe to protect themselves from the severe coldness of winter. Therefore, the tour offers more than just hot spring sightings, as you'll also have the chance to observe the monkeys in their natural habitat. The tour includes bus tickets, a professional guide, foot spa, and all necessary fees and taxes. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as food and drinks, are not included unless specified.Reviews
Visitors who have experienced this tour have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback. They describe the sight of the snow monkeys as awe-inspiring and the guidance of the local guide as invaluable. Many reviewers highlight the unique opportunity to witness the monkeys' behavior up close and personal. Overall, visitors express great satisfaction with the tour, considering it a highlight of their travels to Nagano.
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