Jigokudani Monkey Park: World's Only Place to See Japanese Macaques Bathing in Hot Springs

World's Only Snow Monkeys

Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano is the only place where Japanese macaques known worldwide as "Snow Monkeys" can be seen bathing in hot springs. Very popular with foreign tourists, recognized as an international sightseeing spot.

Behavior of Monkeys Bathing in Hot Springs

The behavior of Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs was first observed in the 1960s. The sight of warming up in hot springs in cold snowy winters is unique, with monkeys soaking in hot springs in snow-covered environments affectionately known as "Snow Monkeys."

Access and Surrounding Sightseeing

Jigokudani Monkey Park is accessible from Nagano Electric Railway Yudanaka Station by walk and bus. Surrounding hot spring resorts including Yudanaka Onsen and Shibu Onsen allow a journey combining hot springs and Snow Monkey observation.