Jigokudani Yaen-koen is home to hundreds of “snow monkeys”, known as such because they spend their days soaking in the mountainous hot springs. In 1970 they appeared on the cover of Life magazine in the U.S. due to this unique behaviour. Furthermore, in 1998, when the winter Olympic Games was held in Nagano, lots of athletes, media, and tourists from foreign countries visited.
Monkeys don’t soak in the hot spring in the warm season because they bathe in order to prevent from the severe coldness in winter. Soaking in the hot spring is only one part of the monkeys’ life. You can also see them lazing or frolicking on the nearby mountain and forest.
What's included
Professional guide
Round trip bus tickets from Yudanaka station
All Fees and Taxes
Foot Spa
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks, unless specified
Taxi / Private Car or Bus
What to expect
Yamanouchi Information Center
10m
The tour starts from this station.
Yamanouchi Information Center
Pass by
This tourist information center is pretty small, but interesting and has quite good information for tourists. You can take a map or brochure for free.
Jigokudani Funsen
Pass by
Jigokudani Fountain is blowing high. Jigokudani means Hell Valley in Japanese, Jigokudani Fountain is designated as a national natural monument. The hot spring that gushes from the bottom of the river is a natural fountain that can be up to 20 meters high. It’s dynamic landscape is also great!
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
40m · Admission ticket included
Located in the Yokoyu River Valley at an altitude of 850m, the Jigokudani Yaen Koen is known as "Hell Valley" due to the steep cliffs and steam emitting from the springs. It's buried in snow for a third of the year but is a paradise for the monkeys of Nagano area as they enjoy bathing in the hot springs to warm up.
5m
If you're feeling a bit peckish while waiting for the bus to Yudanaka Station, we recommend grabbing some coffee or apple pie for takeout at this café here.
Kaede no Yu
15m
Known as ‘ashi-yu’ in Japanese, the foot spa can be used free of charge and offers simple relaxation when awaiting your train. Simply take your shoes and socks off, roll-up your pants and rest your feet in the thermal water. After a day of exploring the monkey park, it’s amazing how much this simple action refreshes your body and reinvigorates you for the journey ahead.
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
The guide will waiting for you at the ticket gate of Yudanaka station.
End point
The guide will waiting for you at the ticket gate of Yudanaka station.
Additional information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in and do not bring heavy baggage because you will walk the mountain paths
A maximum of 8 people per booking
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
