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Jigokudani Monkey Park is a famous location in Japan where snow monkeys openly bathe in natural hot springs in the winter. It’s located in the Yokoyu-River Valley in Nagano Prefecture and is part of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. Winter is the best time to visit, as they turn to the hot spring to keep warm in the harsh winter months.

Top Tips for Visiting Jigokudani in Winter

#1. Dress appropriately: Temperatures in Jigokudani can drop significantly—sometimes as low as -15 Celsius. Thick winter coats, scarves, gloves, and hats are recommended to stay warm while walking and hanging out with the monkeys.

#2. Wear proper shoes: The path leading to the snow monkey’s habitat is slippery and icy in the winter months. It’s best to wear hiking shoes/ boots or purchase grips to attach to your shoes to ensure you don’t slip on the thirty-five-minute trek into Jigokudani.

#3. Plan ahead: The entire experience will take several hours or most of your day, so appropriately plan your trip to Jigokudani. Pack proper clothing, check weather conditions, and know how you will access the park to ensure your experience can align well with your expectations.

What to Expect

Though the monkeys in Jigokudani are well known for bathing in hot springs, bathing helps protect them against the extreme cold in the winter. Thus, bathing isn’t a huge aspect of their life. If you visit on a warm day or during other seasons, don’t expect them to be in or even near the hot springs.

Cost

Adult admission is 800 JPY (~$7.50 USD). Tickets can be purchased at the cabin before entering their habitat area.

Hours

Open daily

April – October 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

November – March 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

Mid-December through February is the best time of the year to watch the monkeys bathe. The park is completely covered in snow and the snow sticks due to the cold temperatures, making it look like a winter wonderland. Winter temperatures can be quite extreme, as can the amount of snow the area receives. Check the weather reports a few days before to know what to anticipate.

Morning is best to see them bathe, as the snow monkeys tend to be more active during these hours. If you wish to see them frequent the hot spring, arriving when the park opens at 9:00 am is recommended. In the afternoon, you can still see a select few of them bathe, though.

You can check the live webcam for actual conditions.

Accessing Jigokudani

Car is by far the easiest and most convenient way to get to Jigokudani, no matter the season. If you are coming from Nagano City and using public transportation, you can take the Shiga-Kogen Line bus from Nagano JR Station. Alternatively, you can take the Dentetsu Line Train to Yudanaka Station. From Yudanaka Station, take either a short taxi or bus ride to the parking lot. From there, you must walk about thirty five minutes to reach the monkey’s habitat. More information on accessing Jigokudani can be found here.

Jigokudani is absolutely stunning in winter! Although a bit chilly and challenging to navigate, the experience is worthwhile. Enjoy the journey and process!

Peace & happy travels,

Tay