Snow Monkey Photography Tours
From $50
Discover the famous Snow Monkeys and scenic trails. Book online to secure your spot and enjoy exclusive savings!
The primary attraction is observing wild Japanese Macaques bathing in natural hot springs. Visitors can also explore the scenic 1.6km forest trail, view the steam vents of 'Hell's Valley', and enjoy the surrounding alpine nature of Yamanouchi.
Focus your visit on the main hot spring area to see the monkeys. Allow at least 2-3 hours for the entire trip, including the walk to and from the entrance. If you love photography, plan to stay longer to capture the monkeys' unique behaviors.
Winter (December to March) is best for seeing monkeys bathing in the snow. However, spring offers baby monkeys and cherry blossoms, while summer is lush and green. Autumn provides stunning foliage and mild hiking weather.
Buying tickets online or purchasing a pass in advance helps streamline your arrival. Ensure you have your confirmation ready on your mobile device. During peak winter season, advance preparation is key to avoiding queues in the cold.
The park requires a 30-minute walk on an unpaved forest trail with stairs and inclines. It is not wheelchair accessible. Families with small children should use baby carriers rather than strollers, as the path gets muddy or snowy.
From the Kanbayashi Onsen bus stop or parking lot, you must walk approximately 1.6km (1 mile) through the forest to reach the park entrance. Appropriate footwear, such as snow boots in winter or hiking shoes in summer, is essential.
Yes, the Snow Monkey Pass is very popular. It combines park admission with unlimited use of the Nagaden train and express bus services from Nagano Station, offering significant convenience and savings for travelers.
The park is most crowded between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, particularly on weekends and holidays. Visiting early in the morning upon opening or late in the afternoon on weekdays offers a more peaceful experience.