# Jigokudani Monkey Park

The only place in the world where wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) bathe in natural hot springs. The park sits in a narrow mountain valley accessed via a 1.6km forest trail. In winter, monkeys descend to the steaming onsen pools while snow falls around them — one of the most photographed wildlife scenes in Japan.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: activity
- **Address**: 6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401
- **Website**: https://jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/en/
- **Hours**: Daily 9 AM–4 PM Apr–Oct 8:30 AM–5 PM.
- **Entry**: Adults ¥800; Ages 6-15 ¥400; Under 6 Free.
- **Price tier**: budget

## Family Amenities
- outdoor-onsen-viewing
- forest-trail
- visitor-center

## Insider Tips
The walk in is 30 minutes each way on a packed-dirt trail — manageable for kids but not stroller-friendly. Winter (Dec–Feb) is peak season for the bathing behavior; summers are still rewarding but less dramatic. Dress for cold even in shoulder seasons — the valley stays cool. Do not touch or feed the monkeys.


## Sources
- [Jigokudani Monkey Park — Official Site](https://jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/en/)

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Source: Outline Travel. Last verified: 2026-04-07.
Permanent URL: https://outline.travel/destinations/nagano/jigokudani-monkey-park/