The Kanbyashi Onsen Sendayaki is a small but fascinating fire festival taking place in February each year. The event sees members of the ‘Mitake-kyo Chusei-kosha’ – a Shinto sect that worships Mount Ontake – move from the lower town of Shibu Onsen up to Kanbayashi Onsen in ceremonial attire. Along the route, eleven ‘shimenawa’ (wound straw ropes) are cut with a sword as the participants pray for prosperity and defence from ill fortune.
sendayaki-kanbayashi-festival-yamanouchi

Arriving in Kanbayashi Onsen, the procession proceeds to Fudo-son Shrine – only a short walk from the trail leading to the Jigokudani Monkey Park and located immediately in front of Enza Cafe– where a series of Shinto rituals take place before the final act, ceremonial fire-walking. Translating as ‘burning of one thousands bundles of wood’, the ‘sendayaki’ requires the three Shinto members to walk across burning charcoal as a form of purification. This is a little known yet very welcoming festival for international visitors. Well-worth experiencing should you be in the area on the day.

Where To Stay Around The Jigokudani Monkey Park

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 …

Important Winter Update: Upcoming Entry Changes at the Snow Monkey Park

Planning your visit to the Snow Monkey Park for December, January, February, or March?

The Snow Monkey Park is currently considering the introduction of an advance online ticketing and timed-entry system for the upcoming peak winter season. While the exact details and official launch dates have not yet been finalized, this may mean that standard walk-up tickets during these high-demand months could be limited or subject to significant wait times in the cold at the trail entrance.

The best way to secure your winter entry to the Snow Monkey Park? Book a guided tour.

By booking one of our curated snow monkey tours, you can travel with complete peace of mind. Here is how booking with us ensures a seamless experience during the peak season while the snow monkey park adjusts to its new policy:

  • Guaranteed Timeslots: We will receive a guaranteed number of tickets for our specific tour timeslots, ensuring you can visit the park in the most timely and organized manner possible.
  • Expert Logistics: We monitor these operational updates closely and will manage all peak-season entry details for you, saving you from navigating the new rules on your own.
  • A Smoother Journey: Our team handles the hassle so that your access to the trail is as smooth, efficient, and stress-free as possible.
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1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano

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We will update this passage as soon as official details are released by the park.