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Jigokudani Monkey Park

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Jigokudani Monkey Park

A spot where you can closely observe the natural behavior of wild Japanese macaques.

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Located along the Yokoyugawa River flowing from the Shiga Highlands and sitting at an elevation of 850 meters, Jigokudani Monkey Park exists in a harsh environment where one-third of the year is blanketed in snow. With its rugged cliffs and steam rising from hot springs everywhere, it's no wonder the place is called Jigokudani, or "Hell's Valley."

Wild Japanese macaques inhabit this region. Almost every day, these monkeys descend from the mountains to the park in search of food provided there.

In the winter, you might catch sight of many monkeys taking refuge from the cold in the park's hot spring specifically meant for them. The unique spectacle of monkeys soaking in the hot spring amidst falling snow has garnered attention from people worldwide. Watching the monkeys indulge in the hot water, much like humans, is utterly charming.

From late April to early June, which is the birthing season for these macaques, you can encounter adorable newborns. During the summer, young monkeys can be seen energetically playing around, while autumn offers glimpses of unique behaviors inherent to the mating season. Throughout the year, visitors can thoroughly enjoy watching the monkeys in their natural habitat, free from cages and fences.

Highlights

  • Feeding the monkeys or touching them is strictly prohibited.
  • Even during business hours, there may be times when no monkeys are present in the park.
  • The park is located deep in the mountains, so dress appropriately for the season.
  • Monkeys only use the hot spring during particularly cold winter times and only when they wish to. It's not a guaranteed sight.
  • Nearby are several hot spring towns like Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen, which you might want to visit.

Photos

  • Monkeys in the hot spring. *Photo provider: Pixta

    Monkeys in the hot spring. *Photo provider: Pixta

  • Keep a safe distance. *Photo provider: Pixta

    Keep a safe distance. *Photo provider: Pixta

  • The Shibu Jigokudani Fountain at the park's entrance. *Photo provider: Pixta

    The Shibu Jigokudani Fountain at the park's entrance. *Photo provider: Pixta

  • During summer, you can watch young monkeys play energetically. *Photo provider: Pixta

    During summer, you can watch young monkeys play energetically. *Photo provider: Pixta

  • Entrance gate. *Photo provider: Pixta

    Entrance gate. *Photo provider: Pixta

  • Always follow the rules and enjoy your visit!

    Always follow the rules and enjoy your visit!

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A

We have brochures in English. Simplified and Traditional Chinese versions can be downloaded from the official website. Numerous informational signs are available.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

Yes, it is.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Yes.

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
A

Re-entry is possible only if requested in advance and with the necessary procedures.

Q

Is there parking available?
A

During summer (April to November), there are two parking areas: ① The exclusive parking for the Monkey Park near the Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku in the Kanbayashi Onsen area, and ② Jigokudani Parking managed by the Shibu Onsen Ryokan Association. The latter is not available during winter (December to March).

Q

How far do I need to walk from the parking area?
A

From ①, it's about a 2-kilometer walking trail (unpaved, mostly flat). From ②, it's roughly a 15-minute walk on a continuous staircase. Please understand that due to the nature of observing wild animals, the facility is situated away from populated areas.
① The exclusive parking for the Monkey Park near the Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku in the Kanbayashi Onsen area.
② Jigokudani Parking managed by the Shibu Onsen Ryokan Association.

Q

What should I wear during the winter season?
A

During winter, there's continuous snowfall, and the trail from ① can become very slippery due to compacted snow. It's essential not only to wear winter boots but also to equip anti-slip devices (like crampons). As most activities are outdoors, wear easily adjustable clothing and waterproof winter gear. Since the location is remote, immediate assistance might not be available. Proper preparation is crucial.
① The exclusive parking for the Monkey Park near the Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku in the Kanbayashi Onsen area.

Reviews

12

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 施美恩
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    Seeing the monkeys soaking in the hot springs in winter is such a classic scene. They’re even cuter in person than in photos.

  • Kay Lin
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    Watching the mother monkey and baby monkey soaking in the hot spring and hugging each other was just so heartwarming!

  • Hung Tuan
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    Getting here isn't the easiest, but it's totally worth it to see the monkeys soaking in the hot springs. It's the only place in the world where you can see monkeys do this—pretty cool!

  • 林木森
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    Visited the monkey hot springs and watched the adorable snow monkeys soaking in the bath.
    Such a relaxing and healing experience~

  • Jason Lin
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    The monkeys soaking in the hot springs are so cute and funny! I really wish I could join them in the bath.

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Details

Name in Japanese
地獄谷野猿公苑
Postal Code
381-0401
Address
6845 Hirao, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano
Telephone
0269-33-4379
Park Holidays
None. Open All Year.
Hours
Summer Season (April-October) 8:30am - 5:00pm
Winter Season (November – March) 9:00am - 4:00pm
*Even during operational hours, monkeys might not always be in the park. Please check the official social media platforms beforehand.
Admission Fare
Adults (ages 18+) 800 yen, Children (elementary to high-school aged students) 400 yen
Access
(1) Walk about 35 min. after taking a 41 min. ride to “Snow Monkey Park” on the express bus to Shiga Kogen from Nagano Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
(2) Walk about 35 min. after taking the 15 min. bus to “Snow Monkey Park” from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway Nagano Line.
Official Website
Official Website (English)
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