Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Complete Travel Guide
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is famous for wild Japanese macaques that soak in a natural hot spring pool, a sight that draws visitors year-round but is most iconic in winter with snow on the ground, and reaching the monkeys requires a walk through forest on a dedicated trail.
Quick Facts
Best Things to Do
- Walk the roughly 30-minute forest trail from the park entrance to reach the hot spring viewing area; wear sturdy shoes, as it can be icy in winter.
- Watch the macaques soak in the outdoor hot spring pool, an unusual and camera-friendly behavior unique to this park.
- Visit early in the day or on a weekday for smaller crowds around the pool.
- Combine with a stop at nearby Shibu Onsen or Yudanaka Onsen for a traditional hot spring town experience.
Tickets and Fees
Checked in July 2026: tickets are sold only at the park entrance, not in advance, and accept major cards and e-money. Opening hours run roughly 8:30am to 5pm from April to October and 9am to 4pm from November to March. Travelers relying on trains and buses may find the Snow Monkey 1-Day or 2-Day Pass convenient, since it bundles Nagaden train and local bus travel with park admission.
How to Get There
Take the Nagaden (Nagano Dentetsu) line from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station, then a local bus to the Kanbayashi Onsen stop, followed by the roughly 30-minute walk to the park entrance. Sightseeing taxis and organized tours from Nagano are also common, especially in winter.
Nearby Attractions
This trip pairs well with a visit to Zenko-ji Temple if you are based in Nagano City, since both are reachable on a single day trip loop.
Book Before You Go
Use official information for opening hours and ticket rules, then book tours or tickets only when they fit your route.