Snow Monkey Park - Snow Monkey Resorts

Snow Monkey Park

Planning to visit the Snow Monkey Park in Nagano? Everything you need to see Japan’s Snow Monkeys — access, tours, transport, and tips.

Located at the base of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, the Jigokudani Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen, 地獄谷野猿公苑) – often referred to as the Snow Monkey Park – is home to a very special troop of monkeys. Created in 1964, the park was established as a conservation area in which the monkeys, Japanese macaques to be exact, would have a refuge within what was already their natural habitat. Once in the park, the naturally-curious monkeys observed humans using the hot spring of a nearby guesthouse and before long, started copying the behaviour. The rest as they say, is history. To learn more about the snow monkey park, as well as relevant tours and charters, please explore below!

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1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano

Take in some of the highlights of Nagano on this engaging tour starting with a visit to Zenkoji – one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan - followed by sake-tasting and lunch at a nearby restaurant. It's then time to head to the Snow Monkey Park and its world-famous hot spring-bathing monkeys! Led by a locally-based English-speaking guide, this tour is a great way to see the best that Nagano has …

(Hotel)

Hotarutei Villas

Only a few minutes walk from the trailhead leading to the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Hotarutei Villas is a new and welcome addition to Kanbayashi Onsen. Boasting two luxury villas, each with their own private onsen bath and two bedrooms included, Hotarutei Villas is a great option for families or friend groups traveling together and looking to have their own space. Beyond just the villas, there is also the main hall - a 180 …

(Tour)

[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour

Home to the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani and host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano is a favorite destination for international visitors. Known for its high mountain peaks and abundant snow, ubiquitous hot springs and delicious food, bountiful farmlands and wild nature, Central Japan is a region with so much to offer! Highlights This tour offers amazing value for those keen skiers wanting to hop between ski resorts for their Nagano ski vacations, while …

(Destination info)

Where To Stay Around The Jigokudani Monkey Park

The Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is nestled in the quiet hot spring village of Kanbayashi Onsen. While staying right at the trailhead puts the monkeys within easy walking distance, visitors can also choose from traditional hot spring towns, sprawling ski resorts, or convenient urban transit hubs nearby. Explore with Nagano’s No.1 Tour Operator: Based locally and operating year-round, we specialize in award-winning group tours, private custom itineraries, and registered travel agency packages that bundle your …

(Destination info)

The Snow Monkey FAQs

Located around 50-minutes from central Nagano City, the Jigokudani Monkey Park is open all-year-round and plays host to one very special troop of monkeys. The following page answers common questions about the Jigokudani Monkey Park. We hope this information helps you plan your visit and adds to your enjoyment of the park. Remember, our 'Snow Monkey Park Information' page provides everything you need to now regarding opening times, admission costs, access information etc. Fondly referred …

(Activity)

Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop

The Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop is located at the entrance of the trail leading to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Offering a range of services including winter rentals and English language information, luggage storage, along with monkey merchandise and souvenirs including official Snow Monkey Resorts products, the SMR Info & Gift Shop has you covered when visiting the park. Open from early October until late May, 9AM to 5PM, English-speaking staff can answer …

(Eat)

HOTARUTEI

Located only a few minutes walk from both the Snow Monkey Park Bus Stop and the entry of the Snow Monkey Park Trail, Hotarutei is a lunch and dinner restaurant located in a faithfully renovated 170 year old Japanese mansion. The 2-story traditional building has been refurbished and renovated in such a way as to keep the original structure with its massive beams and pillars intact. Modern amenities such as heated floors, atmospheric lighting, and …

(Eat)

ENZA CAFE

Enza Café is the perfect place to refresh yourself en route to the Snow Monkey Park. The cafe is surrounded by the beautiful forests of Northern Nagano and provides the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the variety of Japan's four seasons. With indoor seating, terrace seating, and a to-go window for orders on the fly, Enza Cafe is ready to help you make the best of your trip to the Monkey Park. The food selection …