What is Jigokudani Monkey Park?

Jigokudani Monkey Park, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is one of the most unique wildlife spots in Japan—and in the world. The park is famous for its wild Japanese macaques (commonly known as snow monkeys) that bathe in natural hot springs during the winter months.

Set within the snowy valley of the Yokoyu River, the park offers a rare and up-close glimpse of monkey behavior in a natural, open environment. Unlike typical zoos, the monkeys here roam freely, and visitors walk along a forest trail to reach the secluded hot spring where the monkeys soak.

Though the image of monkeys relaxing in steaming water surrounded by snow has become iconic, the park is open year-round and offers a completely different yet equally charming experience in spring, summer, and autumn.

Why Is It Worth Visiting?

There’s something surreal—and oddly peaceful—about watching monkeys soak in a hot spring like humans. Jigokudani Monkey Park offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness this rare behavior up close in a natural mountain setting.

Visiting in winter is especially magical: snow-covered trees surround the steamy onsen pool, and dozens of red-faced macaques sit soaking, grooming each other, or playfully wrestling nearby. But even outside of winter, the monkeys are present year-round, and the lush green valley offers a refreshing escape during warmer months.

What makes the park even more special is the lack of barriers. You can observe the monkeys just a few feet away with no fences between you and them (though touching and feeding are strictly prohibited). It’s a chance to observe their social behavior in the wild—whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just a curious traveler.

How to Get There

By Train and Bus

The most common route starts from Nagano Station, which is easily accessible by shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo (about 1.5 hours). From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (約45分), then transfer to a Nagaden Bus bound for Kanbayashi Onsen. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes.

From the Kanbayashi Onsen Bus Stop, it’s a 25–30 minute walk through a well-maintained forest trail to reach the monkey park entrance. The trail is relatively easy but can be slippery or snow-covered in winter—proper footwear is essential.

By Car

If you’re driving, there are parking areas near Kanbayashi Onsen. From there, the same walking trail applies. During heavy snowfall, parking may be limited, and roads can be icy—check local conditions in advance.

Tours and Taxis

For a hassle-free trip, consider a guided tour from Nagano or Tokyo, which often includes transportation and other regional highlights like snow monkeys + sake tasting or snow monkeys + snowshoe trekking. Taxis from Yudanaka Station to the trailhead are also available but can be expensive during peak season.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“It takes some effort to reach—train, bus, then a 30-minute snowy walk—but it’s absolutely worth it. Watching the monkeys interact so naturally, in such a peaceful setting, was unlike any zoo or animal park.”

“We visited Jigokudani in mid-January, and the sight was magical. The trees were dusted with snow, and the monkeys were lounging in the steaming hot spring. I brought my DSLR and got some of my favorite shots of the entire Japan trip.”

Recommended Tours

・Winter Japan Tour Package 7 Days / Snow Monkey

What to Expect on Your Visit

Visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park is more than just seeing monkeys in a hot spring—it’s a full-on nature experience in the snowy mountains of Nagano.

The Trail to the Park

To reach the park, you’ll follow a 1.6 km walking trail (about 25–30 minutes) from Kanbayashi Onsen through a quiet forest. In winter, the path is often covered in snow or ice, so wearing waterproof hiking boots or snow boots is highly recommended. No vehicles can access the park directly, so walking is mandatory.

The trail is scenic and peaceful, with signs along the way. Families with kids and older visitors can usually manage it, but take your time—there are benches for breaks.

Inside the Park

Once you arrive at the entrance, you’ll purchase a ticket (no reservation needed) and walk a short distance to the hot spring pool where monkeys bathe—especially in the winter months. You’ll see Japanese macaques relaxing, grooming each other, or sometimes playfully fighting.

The park has no barriers between the monkeys and visitors, but staff are on-site to ensure safety. You must not touch, feed, or provoke the animals. Most monkeys will ignore you completely.

Photography Tips

• The best photos are usually taken in the morning, when the light is soft and the monkeys are most active.
• Bring a camera with a zoom lens—you can get great close-ups without needing to approach.
• In winter, snow on the monkeys’ fur adds incredible contrast and charm.

Admission Tickets

• Tickets are sold on-site only. No need for advance booking.
• Adults: ¥800 / Children: ¥400
• Group discounts available

Q&A – Travel Tips for Jigokudani Monkey Park

Visitor Info – Jigokudani Monkey Park

Location

Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in the Yokoyu River valley in Nagano Prefecture, near the onsen town of Yudanaka.

Access

• From Nagano Station: 　• Take the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (approx. 45 min) 　• Then take a bus bound for Kanbayashi Onsen (approx. 15 min) 　• Walk about 30 minutes through a forest trail to the park
• By Car: 　• Parking is available near the trailhead (Kanbayashi Onsen area) 　• Note: Roads may be snowy or icy in winter—winter tires recommended

Opening Hours

• Open year-round
• Summer (April–October): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Winter (November–March): 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Admission

• Adults: ¥800
• Children (6–17): ¥400
• Under 6: Free

Official Website

https://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp

Tips

• Wear waterproof boots and warm layers in winter
• Restrooms are available at the trailhead, not inside the park
• Do not feed or touch the monkeys—enjoy from a respectful distance