Japan’s Snow Monkeys: A Winter Wonder in the Japanese Alps

Japan’s snow monkeys, also known as Japanese macaques, are world-famous for one adorable reason: they bathe in hot springs during snowy winters! The most iconic place to see this is Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture.

These monkeys live in extreme conditions—freezing temperatures and deep snow—but they’ve adapted by soaking in natural hot springs. This unique behavior has made them one of Japan’s most iconic winter sights.

📍 Where to See the Snow Monkeys

Jigokudani Monkey Park (地獄谷野猿公苑) is the only place in Japan where you can reliably see wild monkeys bathing in hot springs. The park is located in the mountains near Yudanaka Onsen, part of the Nagano Alps.

• 🗓 Best time to visit: January to February (deepest snow, best photos)
• 📍 Access: Take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (1.5 hours), then transfer to a local train to Yudanaka Station, followed by a short bus ride and a 30-minute scenic walk.

🧳 Related Read: If you’re planning a Tokyo trip, check out our 3-Day Tokyo Budget Itinerary—you can easily add a day trip to Nagano!

🧣 What to Expect at the Park

• ❄️ Snow-covered mountains and hot spring baths
• 🐵 150+ free-roaming monkeys—no cages!
• 🚶‍♂️ A peaceful forest trail (prepare for snow boots!)
• 🧼 Onsen (hot springs) nearby for humans too!

Visitors can observe the monkeys up close as they eat, play, and relax in steaming waters. Be sure to bring a camera—this is one of the most photogenic wildlife encounters in Japan.

💡 Tips for First-Time Visitors

• 🥾 Wear snow-appropriate gear—the walking path can be slippery.
• 🍱 Bring snacks or lunch—there are few shops around.
• 📸 Photography is allowed, but don’t touch or feed the monkeys.
• 🎫 Entry fee: ¥800 (around $5.50 USD)

🛀 Extend Your Trip with a Traditional Onsen Stay

Why not warm up like the monkeys? The nearby Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen towns offer cozy ryokan inns and real Japanese hot spring baths.

🏨 Recommended Stay: See our guide to best onsen hotels in Tokyo if you’d like a hot spring experience before or after your Nagano trip.

📸 Experience It for Yourself

Want to take stunning Instagram-worthy photos with snow monkeys? Consider joining a guided tour from Tokyo or Nagano:

🎟️ Book here: Snow Monkey Tour from Nagano on Klook

🧭 Other Unique Winter Experiences in Japan

If you love snowy landscapes and cultural beauty, check out these ideas:

• 🎎 Visit historic Kawagoe for a taste of Edo Japan.
• 🌸 Planning a spring trip? Don’t miss our Cherry Blossom Guide.

❄ Final Thoughts

Japan’s snow monkeys are more than just cute animals—they represent the harmony between wildlife and nature that makes Japan so unique. A trip to Jigokudani is an unforgettable winter experience, perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.

✅ Quick Summary