Witness the Magic of Japan's Wild Bathing Macaques in the Snowy Alps of Nagano
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All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
Journey deep into the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park to witness one of nature's most unique spectacles: the Japanese Macaques of Jigokudani. Famous worldwide as the only monkeys known to bathe in hot springs, these wild primates descend from the steep cliffs and forests to sit in the warm waters of the Yokoyu River valley. While the park is open year-round, the experience is most magical in winter when deep snow blankets the valley and steam rises from the pools. Beyond the monkeys, these tours often explore the historic Zenko-ji Temple, the charming onsen town of Shibu, and local sake breweries, offering a complete immersion into the culture and nature of the Japanese Alps.
We partner exclusively with top-rated local providers like Snow Monkey Resorts to ensure safe and respectful wildlife interactions
Reaching the park involves complex train and bus connections—our tours handle all transportation so you can relax
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Many tours are designed specifically for photographers, maximizing time at the pool during the best lighting conditions
Secure your spot immediately for this popular attraction, especially during the peak winter season
Gain deeper insights into macaque behavior and hierarchy from guides who know the troop personally
Winter (Dec-Mar) for snow scenes|Spring (Apr-Jun) for babies|Autumn (Oct-Nov) for foliage
Waterproof winter boots|Warm down jacket|Thermal layers|Gloves and beanie hat|Crampons (can be rented)
Establishment of the park in 1964 saved the troop from agricultural conflict
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Check specific tour details.
Share your experience: #snowmonkeys #jigokudani #nagano #japantravel #wildlifephotography
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Real experiences from real travelers
Seeing the monkeys in the snow was an absolute bucket list moment. The walk was slippery but the guide helped us navigate it safely. The sake tasting afterwards was a perfect warmer!
The monkeys were everywhere! Not just in the pool but running between our legs. Our guide Ken was fantastic and explained the monkey hierarchy perfectly. Highly recommend the tour that includes lunch.
The park is amazing, but be prepared for the cold! The 30-minute walk is beautiful but icy. Rent the crampons at the shop, it makes a huge difference. The monkeys are adorable.
Booking through the platform was easy. The bus transfer from Nagano saved us so much hassle. Zenko-ji temple was a spiritual bonus to the day. The lunch provided was delicious local soba.
I brought my telephoto lens but honestly didn't need it—they get so close. The steam makes for moody, incredible shots. Go early if you can. The tour timing was perfect for light.
Even without deep snow in November, it was great. The autumn colors were fading but the monkeys were very active. A bit crowded but the guide managed our group well.
Even as a local, I learned new things about the area. The combination of the Monkey Park and Shibu Onsen made for a perfect day trip from Tokyo. Very professional service.
The baby monkeys playing in the snow were the cutest thing I've ever seen. The tour bus was comfortable and warm. A must-do if you are in Nagano.
Everything you need to know for your journey
The walk is approximately 1.6km (1 mile) each way on a forest trail. It is mostly flat but includes some stairs and can be very slippery and icy in winter. It takes about 30-40 minutes.
The monkeys are wild animals, so their presence is never 100% guaranteed. However, park rangers feed them, so they come down from the mountains almost every day. In autumn, they may be less frequent due to mating season.
No. Touching and feeding are strictly prohibited for your safety and to keep the monkeys wild. They can be aggressive if threatened.
Dress in warm, waterproof layers, especially in winter. Heavy coats, gloves, hats, and sturdy snow boots are essential. Crampons (spikes) for shoes are highly recommended.
No, the trail is unpaved, includes stairs, and is often covered in snow or mud, making it inaccessible for wheelchairs.
Winter (December to March) is the most popular time for the classic 'snow monkey' photos. However, the park is open year-round, and spring brings adorable baby monkeys.
Yes, there are restrooms at the trail entrance (near the parking/bus stop) and one facility at the park entrance after the walk. There are no toilets on the trail itself.
No, selfie sticks are banned inside the park as they can frighten or provoke the monkeys.
You can get quite close as the monkeys ignore humans, but park rules require you to stay at least 1-2 meters away. Do not block their path.
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