Experience the magic of Japan's bathing macaques with the comfort, privacy, and flexibility of a personal guide and vehicle
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Escape the crowds and witness one of Japan's most unique natural wonders with a private tour to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Located in the Valley of the Yokoyu River in Nagano Prefecture, this park offers the rare opportunity to observe wild Japanese Macaques (Snow Monkeys) bathing in natural hot springs. Unlike standard group bus tours, a private experience allows you to navigate the region at your own pace, combining your monkey visit with historic stops like Zenko-ji Temple, traditional Obuse town, or exclusive sake breweries. Whether you are traveling from Tokyo or staying in Nagano, our curated private tours ensure a seamless, comfortable, and unforgettable winter adventure.
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Read hundreds of genuine reviews from travelers who have actually experienced these specific private tours
Private guides know the best times to visit to avoid peak tour bus crowds for better photography
Compare multiple private options to find the best value for your group size and budget
Unlike rigid bus tours, private bookings allow you to linger longer at the park or add spontaneous stops
We select tours that offer unique cultural add-ons like sake tasting, snowshoeing, or visiting historic temples
Winter (Dec-Mar) for snow bathing|Spring (Apr-Jun) for baby monkeys|Autumn (Oct-Nov) for foliage
Waterproof snow boots with good grip|Thermal underwear and layers|Windproof/waterproof down jacket|Warm hat and gloves|Sunglasses (snow glare is strong)
Established in 1964, the park was created to keep monkeys away from local farms, inadvertently creating a global tourist phenomenon.
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Check specific tour details.
Share your experience: #snowmonkeys #jigokudani #nagano #japantravel #wildlifephotography
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Real experiences from real travelers
Booking a private tour was the best decision. Our driver met us at Nagano station and took us straight to the trail. He helped us navigate the icy path and knew exactly where to stand for the best photos. Combining it with Zenko-ji temple made for a perfect day.
The monkeys were incredible! Seeing them in the snow was a bucket list item. Our guide, Ken, was fantastic—he took us to a hidden local soba noodle shop for lunch that we never would have found on our own. Highly recommend the private option for families.
The park is amazing, but be prepared for the cold! The walk is quite long but beautiful. Having a private car to warm up in immediately after the hike was a lifesaver. The sake tasting add-on was delicious.
We wanted to spend extra time photographing the monkeys and our private guide was very patient. No rushing back to a bus. The service was impeccable and the vehicle was very comfortable.
I booked this for my visiting clients. The private van was pristine and the driver was very professional. It made the trip from Tokyo very smooth. A premium experience.
Everything you need to know for your journey
It is a 1.6km (1 mile) walk from the parking lot to the park entrance, taking about 30-40 minutes through a forest trail.
No, they are wild animals. They are most likely to be in the bath during the cold winter months (Dec-Mar), but they visit the park year-round to be fed.
No, strictly forbidden. You must keep a safe distance, not stare them in the eye, and never feed or touch them.
Yes, kids love the monkeys! However, the 30-minute walk can be tiring for toddlers, and strollers are not allowed, so carriers are recommended.
The park is open in rain and snow. In fact, snow makes for the best photos! Tours operate in all weather unless roads are closed.
No formal code, but winter clothing is essential. Wear non-slip snow boots, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.
Yes, some private tour options include direct pickup from Tokyo, or you can take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station where your guide will meet you.
Yes, there are restrooms at the trail entrance and near the park gate, but none inside the main monkey viewing area.
Winter (January and February) is best for snow scenes and bathing behavior, but spring is great for seeing baby monkeys.
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