Visit snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park
Nagano, Japan • INR 3471 approx.• 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Mar
-8°C – 2°C, cold and snowy; deep snow covers the valley, creating ideal conditions to observe snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs, medium crowds, peak season
-8°C – 2°C, cold and snowy; deep snow covers the valley, creating ideal conditions to observe snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs, medium crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Access requires a 1.6km forest trail with slopes and steps.
Access requires a 1.6km forest trail with slopes and steps.
Value for money
Medium
Unique experience, but potentially crowded and seasonal.
Unique experience, but potentially crowded and seasonal.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Magical Moments
Couples loved the romantic, unique experience of the snow monkeys in the snow.
Scenic Hike
The forest walk to the park was a highlight, adding to the overall experience.
Unforgettable Sight
Travelers raved about witnessing the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.
Crowded Trails
Some couples found the park busy, especially during peak season, affecting the experience.
Icy Trail
Visitors noted the trail could be challenging and slippery, especially in winter.
Snowless Disappointment
Couples felt the experience was less magical without the snow-covered onsen setting.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Sunday
09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Join a duo as they embark on an exciting adventure through the enchanting Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Explore the mesmerizing Jigokudani Monkey Park, a top destination for travelers.
Discover the captivating highlights of Snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park!
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
HIGH
-4-6°C
Cold, wintry conditions with frequent snow cover; classic snow monkey experience.
Cold, wintry conditions with frequent snow cover; classic snow monkey experience.
Open
Park is open daily; winter hours (9:00–16:00); snow may make the walking path slippery.
Park is open daily; winter hours (9:00–16:00); snow may make the walking path slippery.
Recommended
December is the iconic time to visit for snow monkeys in hot springs, but expect crowds and be prepared for winter walking conditions.
December is the iconic time to visit for snow monkeys in hot springs, but expect crowds and be prepared for winter walking conditions.
January
MEDIUM
-8-2°C
Cold and snowy; deep snow covers the valley, creating ideal conditions to observe snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs.
Cold and snowy; deep snow covers the valley, creating ideal conditions to observe snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs.
Open
The park is open, but the 30-35 minute walking trail can be slippery and snow-covered. Winter boots and crampons are recommended. Wheelchair access is not possible due to the snow and trail conditions.
The park is open, but the 30-35 minute walking trail can be slippery and snow-covered. Winter boots and crampons are recommended. Wheelchair access is not possible due to the snow and trail conditions.
Recommended
January is one of the best times to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park. Snowy scenery enhances the experience of seeing Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs. Facilities are open but expect winter conditions on the trail.
January is one of the best times to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park. Snowy scenery enhances the experience of seeing Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs. Facilities are open but expect winter conditions on the trail.
February
MEDIUM
-7-3°C
Persistently cold and snowy with frequent fresh snow; ideal for snow monkey viewing.
Persistently cold and snowy with frequent fresh snow; ideal for snow monkey viewing.
Open
Trail may be icy and snow-covered. Winter gear is necessary. Accessibility is limited due to snow.
Trail may be icy and snow-covered. Winter gear is necessary. Accessibility is limited due to snow.
Recommended
February offers prime snow monkey viewing amid deep snow. The park is fully operational, but be prepared for cold temperatures and winter trail conditions.
February offers prime snow monkey viewing amid deep snow. The park is fully operational, but be prepared for cold temperatures and winter trail conditions.
March
MEDIUM
-3-8°C
Cold with diminishing snow; by late March, snow starts to melt, but monkeys still bathe in the springs.
Cold with diminishing snow; by late March, snow starts to melt, but monkeys still bathe in the springs.
Open
Trail may still be icy or muddy. Winter boots recommended for early March.
Trail may still be icy or muddy. Winter boots recommended for early March.
Recommended
March offers a mix of snowy and early spring conditions. The park remains a top destination for snow monkey viewing, especially in early March.
March offers a mix of snowy and early spring conditions. The park remains a top destination for snow monkey viewing, especially in early March.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
The Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus departs from Nagano Station's East Exit (bus stop 23) to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop, followed by a walk.
Train
Recommended
Take the Nagano Dentetsu Line from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station, then transfer to a local bus.
Car
Drive via National Route 292, exiting at the Shinshu Nakano Interchange. Parking is available at Kanbayashi Onsen and a paid lot closer to the entrance (seasonal).
Taxi
Taxis are available from Yudanaka Station or Nagano Station to the park's trailhead.
Walking
A 1.6-kilometer (approximately 1-mile) walk from the Snow Monkey Park bus stop or the Kanbayashi Onsen parking area to the park entrance is required.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required