Meet Nagano's Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

Japan's Snow Monkeys

Have you ever heard of the Japanese macaque? Native to Japan and prominent in local folklore, these animals live farther north than any other non-human primate, earning them their famous nickname: Snow Monkeys.

At Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, visitors can observe these fascinating creatures up close year-round.

The park is especially magical in winter, when you can watch the monkeys soaking in natural hot springs. This unique sight attracts travelers from all over the world. Read on for everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Jigokudani!

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in Yamanouchi, a town in northeastern Nagano Prefecture renowned for its pristine mountain scenery, soothing hot springs, and world-class winter sports.

Visitors to the park can observe Japanese macaques thriving in their native habitat without any cages or enclosures—a rare opportunity worldwide to witness wild primate behavior up close throughout the year.

Photo courtesy of Jigokudani Monkey Park

During the spring, from April to June, you can meet newborn babies here. In the summer these baby monkeys will start to run around the park and goof off with their friends.

The monkeys continually move their living space to where they feel is safe, and don't have a permanent settlement or territory. The strength of the mother indicates the strength of the family. Their faces are red and their bottoms are blue. One could go on and on about these curious monkeys.

Photo courtesy of Jigokudani Monkey Park

Japanese macaques roam freely across the entire park, frequently walking right past visitors along the paths. The ability to observe these wild animals at such close range is truly unforgettable.

Let's explore what else this remarkable destination has to offer!

Just Like Humans: Bathing Snow Monkeys

These are the Snow Monkeys that fascinate tourists from all over the world. They seem to be having a great time relaxing in the hot springs. You might even think they were one of us.

Only the female monkeys and children are usually seen bathing in the onsen. The male monkeys often endure the cold, as do the younger females.

In general, monkeys around the globe don't like to get wet, but as the macaques of Jigokudani inhabit an area of heavy snowfall, it's said that they learned to bathe in the hot springs to keep warm.

Their adorable behavior caught people's attention and soon came to be known around the world.

Not all of the monkeys bathe in the water. Regardless of their power structure and relations, there are families who bathe and families that don't. Only the ones who have been used to bathing since they were young grow up to continue the habit.

Getting to know about the Snow Monkeys is great, but what pleases visitors the most is their priceless expressions.

Jigokudani Monkey Park has live cameras set up, so if you want to have a look at the monkeys, you can check out their official website.

What to Be Careful of

Photo courtesy of Jigokudani Monkey Park

Here are some points of note from Jigokudani Monkey Park. The monkeys are not tamed like pets and do not think of us humans as friends.

Please do not show or give the monkeys any food, do not touch them, and do not get too close with a selfie stick. Please treat the creatures as you would want to be treated.

The area is a nature-rich environment inhabited by many wild animals. Cars and other vehicles cannot venture far into the forest. The region receives heavy snow, so do not come in sneakers or sandals in the winter.

If you slip and fall, resulting in an injury, ambulances cannot come into the forest, and you will be transported out on a stretcher.

In addition to being aware of how to interact with the Japanese macaque, please also be prepared with the appropriate attire and equipment so you can enjoy observing the monkeys without any trouble.

There are various ways to reach Jigokudani Monkey Park. Please check here for more information.

Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park

6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano 381-0401