Overview
Jigokudani Monkey Park is a park in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, set at the Jigokudani hot spring for observing wild Japanese macaques. Opened in 1964, it is internationally known for the sight of monkeys bathing in the hot spring in winter. In English-speaking countries it is also called Snow Monkey Mountain.
Highlights
- ●Wild Japanese macaques bathing in the hot spring
- ●A nature-observation site set at the Jigokudani hot spring
- ●Monkey behavior seen amid winter snow scenery
- ●An internationally known observation spot
History
The park opened on 3 June 1964 with the purpose of observing wild Japanese macaques living at the Jigokudani hot spring. The sight of monkeys bathing in the hot spring in winter became widely known, making it an international tourist destination. In English-speaking countries it is also called Snow Monkey Mountain.
Access
It is located at the Jigokudani hot spring in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture. As it sits in a mountain hot-spring area, it is worth checking the route and seasonal conditions in advance.
Best season
Winter is when the monkeys are known to bathe in the hot spring, making it the season to observe them alongside the snowy scenery. Warm clothing and secure footing are advisable.
Map
36.7328, 138.4627 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head toward the Jigokudani hot spring area in Yamanouchi
- 2Enter the wild-macaque observation area at the park
- 3Observe the monkeys bathing in the hot spring
- 4Take in the scenery of the surrounding hot-spring area
Did you know?
💡 In English-speaking countries it is also called Snow Monkey Mountain.
Nearby spots
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