Everything you need to know about the
SNOW MONKEYS
A Complete Guide to Visiting Japan’s Snow Monkeys
Japan’s snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata), are one of the country’s most unique wildlife attractions. Known for their habit of bathing in hot springs during the winter, these monkeys have become an iconic symbol of Japan’s rugged, snow-covered landscapes. But there’s more to them than just a photogenic moment—these monkeys have a rich history, fascinating social structures, and are found year-round in the Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about what makes them special, this guide covers everything you need to know, including history, best times to visit, how to get there, and what to expect.
What Makes the Snow Monkeys Special?
The Japanese macaque is the northernmost-living non-human primate in the world. While most monkeys live in warm or tropical climates, these highly adaptable macaques thrive in freezing mountain conditions, surviving temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F) in winter.
Why Do They Bathe in Hot Springs?
While macaques elsewhere in Japan don't usually bathe, the monkeys in Jigokudani began using the hot springs in the 1960s. It’s believed that they learned this behavior by watching humans at the nearby onsen (hot spring resorts) and eventually started using the baths themselves.
Today, their famous habit of soaking in steaming waters surrounded by snow has made them one of Japan’s most photographed animals.
Snow Monkey Society
These monkeys live in large social groups with strict hierarchies. Dominant females and their offspring get first access to the hot springs, while lower-ranking members often stay in the colder areas. They’re highly intelligent and have been observed:
Using tools
Passing down knowledge to younger generations
Communicating through complex vocalizations and facial expressions
A Brief History of Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park was established in 1964 to study and protect the local macaque population. At the time, the monkeys often wandered into local villages in search of food, causing conflicts with residents. To create a safe habitat for them, conservationists set up the park in the mountains, where they could thrive without human interference.
Unlike a zoo, the monkeys are completely wild and free to leave at any time, but they continue to visit daily because of the natural hot springs and available food.
How to Get to the Snow Monkeys
From Tokyo to Nagano
By Train (Fastest Option)
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (~1.5 hours).
Trains run frequently, and seats can be reserved in advance.
By Car
The drive from Tokyo to Jigokudani Monkey Park takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
Free parking is available at the Kanbayashi Onsen parking lot (near the park entrance).
From Nagano Station to the Park
By Bus
Take the Nagaden Express Bus from Nagano Station’s East Exit to Kanbayashi Onsen (about 40 min).
From there, it’s a 30-40 minute walk to the park entrance.
By Train + Local Bus or Taxi
Take the Nagano Dentetsu Line from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station (~45 min).
From Yudanaka, take a local bus or taxi (~10-15 min) to the trail entrance.
By Rental Car
Nagano to Jigokudani: ~40-50 min drive
Free parking available near the entrance
The Walk to the Snow Monkeys
The trail to the park is 1.6 km (1 mile) one way and takes 30-40 minutes to walk.
The path is mostly flat but can be slippery and icy in winter—wear hiking boots or snow boots to be on the safe side.
Winter visitors can bring crampons or anti-slip attachments for their shoes. Buy these at a DIY store to save money.
In spring, summer, and autumn, the trail is much easier, but muddy conditions can occur after rain.
Best Time to Visit the Snow Monkeys
When to Arrive
Arrive before 8:30 AM to avoid large crowds.
The park is quietest in the early morning and late afternoon.
Weekends and public holidays are busy—go on a weekday if possible.
Crowded Periods to Avoid
New Year Holidays (late December - early January)
Chinese New Year (January or February, varies by year)
Golden Week (April 29 - May 5)
Japanese Public Holidays and Weekends
Seasonal Highlights
Winter (December - March): Most iconic time to visit, with monkeys in the hot springs and snow-covered scenery.
Spring (April - June): Baby monkeys are born! A great time to see young macaques playing.
Summer (July - September): Lush green surroundings, though monkeys may spend more time in the forest.
Autumn (October - November): Beautiful autumn foliage, fewer tourists.
Park Opening Hours & Entrance Fees
Opening Hours:
Winter (Nov - Mar): 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Spring - Autumn (Apr - Oct): 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee:
Adults: ¥800
Children: ¥400
(Cash only – no credit cards accepted!)
Nearby Places to Visit
Pair your trip to the Snow Monkeys with these great nearby spots:
1. Shibu Onsen (10 min away)
A historic hot spring town with nine public onsen. Visitors can wear a yukata and walk through the streets, enjoying traditional bathhouses. Some inns allow non-staying guests to enter the hot springs for a fee.
2. Obuse (30 min away)
A charming town famous for:
Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the famous ukiyo-e artist.
Chestnut desserts – the town is known for its chestnut cakes and sweets.
Sake breweries offering tastings of locally brewed sake.
3. Nagano City (40 min away)
Home to Zenkoji Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan. The surrounding streets are great for trying local soba noodles and other Nagano specialties.
For more travel recommendations and a detailed map of must-see spots, check out my Rexby guide:
👉 https://www.rexby.com/im.mattguy/japan
Where to stay?
Fudoson-no-yu Oyado Kotobuki Hotel
If you want to stay as close as possible and make the most of an early or late start for less crowds, check out the absolute closest hotel which also has a wonderful outdoor onsen. It’s also a great place to visit after the walk for a casual entry at currently 800 yen.
Check the opening times for day visitors in advance as they do vary!
Final Tips for Your Visit
✅ Bring warm layers and waterproof boots in winter in case of cold weather in the valley
✅ Start the walk around 8AM to arrive at the park gates at opening time when the crowds are at the minimum. Alternatively, after 2PM is also quieter
✅ Try the walk outside of the winter peak to have the place to yourself
✅ Plan extra time if using public transport, as buses and trains may have delays in winter
✅ Buy crampons at the DIY store to save money
✅ Always check up to date opening and closing times
✅ Always walk on one side of the path to make things easier for everyone
✅ Travel by car if you want to make the most of the attractions in the area
✅ Get my map for a bunch of my personal recommendations!
