Snow Monkey Hot Springs
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is home to over 200 wild Japanese macaques that soak in the hot springs to keep warm through the harsh winter. Opened in 1964, it is the only place in the world where wild monkeys bathe in hot springs — a behaviour this troop developed to survive the long, cold winters of the Nagano mountains.
The walk to the hot springs takes around 30–40 minutes each way from the bus parking area. The path can be icy, so please take care — but the trail itself is a highlight, winding through a beautiful cedar forest with informational signboards about the monkeys along the way.
At the park, you'll see the monkeys bathing, playing, eating, and huddling for warmth within their highly organised social groups.
Three important rules when visiting:
Do not bring food or show the monkeys any snacks — they may try to grab it, and human food can make them seriously ill.
Do not stare monkeys directly in the eye — they may interpret it as a threat.
Do not touch the monkeys.
Photography is welcome — but no flash or selfie sticks please.