Jigokudani Monkey Park (Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a facility located in a valley in Yamanouchi Town, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, where you can observe wild Japanese macaques (Japanese monkeys). The sight of the monkeys bathing in natural pools created at the outlet of hot springs in the mountains has become popular, attracting many tourists from both within Japan and abroad. The sight of the "hot spring monkeys" soaking in the hot springs amidst the snowy winter scenery is particularly famous, and the attraction is being able to observe their natural behavior up close regardless of the season. Since opening to the public as a park, efforts have been ongoing to balance wildlife conservation with proper viewing etiquette.

Highlights

• Monkeys bathing in hot springs: The sight of monkeys bathing in hot springs against the backdrop of the snowy winter scenery is a typical sight. You can observe their relaxed expressions and the social behavior of the group.
• Observing group behavior: You can observe the natural behavior of monkeys, such as foraging, grooming, and parent-child interactions, from a relatively close distance (from designated walkways and viewing locations within the observation area).
• Seasonal scenery: The scenery changes with each season, from the fresh greenery of spring, the mountain streams of summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy landscapes of winter. The magical scenery created by the snow and steam in winter is particularly appealing.
• Photography: Telephoto and macro photography is ideal for capturing natural wildlife scenes, but it's important not to get too close to the monkeys.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

The main means of access are train and bus (or walking or taxi), or private car.

• Nearest station: The nearest major station is Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway. It takes about 45 to 55 minutes from Nagano Station by Nagano Electric Railway.
• From the station: From Yudanaka Station, take a local bus (such as the Yamanouchi Municipal Bus) bound for Kanbayashi Onsen/Jigokudani, get off at the bus stop along the river, and walk to the park entrance. From the bus stop to the park entrance, it's about a 20-30 minute walk (about 1-1.6 km) through the forest. If you take a taxi, it's about a 20-25 minute ride from the station.
• Access by car: From the Joshinetsu Expressway, take the national and prefectural roads to Yamanouchi Town. There are dedicated parking lots around the park (including temporary parking lots depending on the season). In winter, studless tires and chains are required as the roads are prone to freezing and snow.
• Note: Vehicles are not permitted inside the park or the observation area. You must walk from the nearest parking lot or bus stop.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• If you include round trip travel to the park (starting from Yudanaka Station): Half a day to a full day (approximately 3 to 6 hours including travel time).
• Observation only in the park: The tour itself usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to see the main highlights. If you want to take photos and observe at your own pace, you should allow 1-2 hours.
• If you plan to also enjoy the surrounding hot spring towns (such as Shibu Onsen), we recommend a one-day or one-night plan.

Nearby spots

• Shibu Onsen: Enjoy a tour of the outdoor baths in this charming hot spring town. Easily accessible from Jigokudani, it's convenient for strolling and staying overnight.
• Yudanaka Onsen: A hot spring resort near the station. Convenient as a transportation hub.
• Shiga Kogen: A highland resort where you can enjoy mountain climbing, hiking, and winter sports. The natural scenery changes with the seasons.
• Nearby hiking trails: There are trails through valleys and forests, and they are also ideal for observing nature and wild birds.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Manners: Never feed, chase or touch the monkeys. Do not get too close. Contact with or feeding wild animals can have a negative impact on the health and behavior of the monkeys.
• Keeping your belongings under control: Monkeys are curious and may steal luggage, food, or drinks. Please keep a close eye on your bags and belongings, and eat and drink outside the observation area.
• Safety precautions: Please observe from the designated walkways and viewing areas. Monkeys can be unpredictable and may approach suddenly.
• Crowds: It gets particularly crowded in winter (tourist season) and on weekends and holidays. Mornings and early weekday times are relatively more convenient for observing.
• Clothing and equipment: The trails are natural paths and may be icy or muddy. Please bring appropriate cold weather gear and non-slip shoes (warm and non-slip gear in winter). Rain gear is also recommended.
• Opening hours and closure information: Generally, the park is open all year round, but may be closed temporarily in the event of bad weather or other dangerous conditions. Please check the latest information (official information from Yamanouchi Town and the park) before visiting.
• Consideration when taking photos: Do not use flash or loud noises as they may scare the monkeys. Please be considerate to other visitors.

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a rare place where you can experience the charm of wild monkeys up close in nature. When visiting, please observe the "etiquette of an observer" and be considerate of the surrounding nature and animals.