Nagaden operates a variety of express bus services to some of Nagano’s most popular destinations including the Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen Ski Resort. On this page you will find the following information:
Key Takeaways: Snow Monkey Express Bus Timetable
- Dedicated Route: As of 2026, the Shiga Kogen express bus no longer stops at the monkey park. Visitors must take the dedicated Snow Monkey Express Bus departing from Nagano Station East Exit Bus Stop 24.
- Advance Tickets Required: Express bus tickets must now be purchased prior to boarding, as cash payments are no longer accepted on the bus for the winter season.
- Winter 2026/2027 Schedule: The peak winter timetable runs from December 5, 2026, to April 5, 2027, featuring high-frequency departures to accommodate the crowds.
- Mandatory Park Reservations: In addition to bus tickets, independent visitors must pre-book their Snow Monkey Park entry tickets via the Webket system for the winter season, as walk-ins may be denied entry.
- The Snow Monkey Pass: A dedicated Express Bus version of the pass (JPY 6,800) covers your round-trip transport and park admission, available at the Nagaden Bus Ticket Center inside Nagano Station.
- Skip the Public Transit: With the looming sell-outs of tickets in the busy seasons, the ultimate hassle-free experience to the Snow Monkey Park with guaranteed tickets in our guided winter tours or private charters. We provide direct, private transport and guaranteed park entry, allowing you to bypass the crowded bus schedules and complex ticketing system entirely.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
The following page provides the timetable for express buses from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park (and the return journey). For full details regarding how to use Nagaden's express bus services, please refer to our 'Nagaden Snow Monkey / Shiga Kogen Express Bus' page
The express bus to the monkey park operates to and from Bus Stop No.24 outside the East Exit of Nagano Station.
Snow Monkey Express Bus Timetable
Please note that as of 2026, the Nagaden Shiga Kogen Express Bus will no longer stop at the Snow Monkey Park. Therefore, guests heading to the monkey park must take the Snow Monkey Park Express Bus, and those heading to Shiga Kogen ski resort must take the Shiga Kogen Express Bus. For more information, please see our 'Nagaden Shiga Kogen Express Bus Timetable' page.
Once you arrive at the bus stop, the entrance to the park is about a 10-minute walk uphill. From Nagano Station, the bus takes about 50 minutes ~ 1 hour to reach the park.
The 2026/27 Winter Schedule, valid from December 5th, 2026 to April 5th, 2027 has been released and is as follows:
Snow Monkey Express Bus Timetable for Winter 2026/2027 UPDATED (December 5th 2026 to April 5th 2027):
From Nagano Station to Snow Monkey Park
Nagano Station | Snow Monkey Park |
08:00 | 08:50 |
08:20 | 09:10 |
08:40 | 09:30 |
09:00 | 09:50 |
09:20 | 10:10 |
09:40 | 10:30 |
10:00 | 10:50 |
10:20 | 11:10 |
10:40 | 11:30 |
11:00 | 11:50 |
11:30 | 12:20 |
12:00 | 12:50 |
12:30 | 13:20 |
13:00 | 13:50 |
13:30 | 14:20 |
*Please note that tickets must be purchased in advance and no cash payments will be taken. Please see the "ticketing" section below for details.
From Snow Monkey Park to Nagano Station
Snow Monkey Park | Nagano Station |
11:00 | 11:55 |
11:30 | 12:25 |
12:00 | 12:55 |
12:30 | 13:25 |
13:00 | 13:55 |
13:30 | 14:25 |
14:00 | 14:55 |
14:20 | 15:15 |
14:40 | 15:35 |
15:00 | 15:55 |
15:20 | 16:15 |
15:40 | 16:35 |
16:00 | 16:55 |
16:30 | 17:25 |
17:00 | 17:55 |
Snow Monkey Express Bus Timetable for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 UPDATED (April 7th 2026 to December 4th 2026):
From Nagano Station to Snow Monkey Park
Nagano Station | Snow Monkey Park |
08:30 | 09:20 |
9:00 | 9:50 |
10:40 | 11:30 |
11:30 | 12:20 |
*13:05 | 13:55 |
13:15 | 14:05 |
15:10 | 16:00 |
Please note that the 10:40 and 13:15 services continue all the way to Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma, a premier travel destination traversing over the highest state road in Japan, with fantastic scenery as well.
From Snow Monkey Park to Nagano Station
Snow Monkey Park | Nagano Station |
10:00 | 10:55 |
10:46 | 11:46 |
13:30 | 14:25 |
15:20 | 16:20 |
16:30 | 17:25 |
* 17:16 | 18:16 |
18:10 | 19:10 |
Important Note Regarding Asterisked (*) Times
Please be aware that services marked with an asterisk (*) operate only during the following periods:
- July 1, 2026 – August 31, 2026
- November 1, 2026 – December 4, 2026
Additionally, for the asterisk services en-route to the park there are additional pick-up and drop-off points at roadsides in Obuse and Nakano however these are unlikely to be of interest or convenience for international visitors.
Ticketing & Travel Passes
As of winter 2026, the Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus tickets must be purchased before boarding the bus. There are two ways to purchase tickets for the express bus:
1. Snow Monkey Pass: Express bus tickets are available for advance purchase online, through the Snow Monkey Pass set (including round-trip transportation + entrance to the park). See below for more information about purchasing and using the Snow Monkey Pass.
2. Same-day Ticket: Same-day tickets can be purchased at the first-floor ticket office of Nagano Station, called "Aruyo" (あるよ) just next to the bus stop. If tickets are sold out for a particular day, same-day tickets may not be available.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
If you are worried about bus tickets or park entry tickets being sold out on the day, consider joining one of our tours or booking a private charter service to the park! This is the easiest way to ensure entry to the Snow Monkey Park, without having to worry about transportation.
The Snow Monkey Pass (Express Bus Version)
As of 2026, there are now two distinct versions of the Snow Monkey Pass. This pass is specifically designed for the Express Bus and is the most convenient option for a seamless day trip from Nagano Station. The Express Bus Snow Monkey Pass is available online in advance for the winter season only, or can be purchased on-site inside of Nagano Station year-round.
- Cost: JPY 6,800 (Adults 13+) / JPY 3,400 (Children 6-12).
- Where to Buy: Available only in person via the "Aruyo" ticket machine (pictured above) at the Nagaden Bus Ticket Center (1st Floor, Nagano Station East Exit). Or, available for purchase on the Nagaden Official Website.
- What’s Included:
- Park Admission: One-time entry to the Snow Monkey Park.
- Round-Trip Transport: One round-trip journey on the Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus (Nagano Station - Snow Monkey Park).
- Validity: Valid for 1 day from the date of purchase.
- Where to Board: Bus Stop 24 outside the Eastern Exit of Nagano Station.
Important: This version of the pass is not valid for local trains or buses. If you prefer to travel via the Nagano Dentetsu Railway line and local bus, please refer to the link above for the Snow Monkey Pass.
*Please note, the Snow Monkey Pass does NOT cover services to and from Shiga Kogen.
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?
For the 2026/2027 winter season, the Snow Monkey Park has introduced an advance online ticketing and timed-entry system for the upcoming peak winter season. All visitors planning an independent trip to Jigokudani Yaen-koen (Snow Monkey Park) must navigate the new mandatory online ticketing system and strict winter parking restrictions.
Peak Season Entry & Parking Restrictions
- Mandatory Online Tickets: During peak times—primarily winter (Dec–Mar) and major domestic holidays like New Year, Golden Week, and Obon—visitors must present a date-specific advance ticket QR code to be admitted to the park after walking the trail. Walk-ins face long waits or total entry denial at the ticket check-in counter at the bottom of the trail.
- Civilian Parking Bans: Nearby parking lots are completely closed to private vehicles on peak winter weekends and public holidays. Public transport or guided tours are strongly recommended. Travel via public transportation is being encouraged by the Snow Monkey Park.
How to Book Independent Tickets Online
- Booking Portal: Tickets must be purchased through the official Webket Reservation System (English toggle available).
- Account Required: You must create and register a Webket account before buying.
- Booking Window: Tickets open 90 days in advance at midnight JST.
- Entry Timeslots: When booking, you must select your specific date and arrival window.
For more details on how to go about placing your reservation for tickets to the Snow Monkey Park, please see our How to Purchase Snow Monkey Park Tickets in Advance webpage.
The best way to secure your winter entry to the Snow Monkey Park? Book a guided tour or private charter with Snow Monkey Resorts.
By booking one of our curated snow monkey tours, or private charter services, 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 Park Entry: We secure reserved ticket allocations for our guests, completely bypassing the complex online booking system and ensuring guaranteed access.
- Direct Transportation: Skip the hazardous winter roads and vehicle bans—our private vehicles drop you off directly near the park trail.
- Hassle-Free Experience: Enjoy an all-inclusive itinerary complete with a local English-speaking guide, organized logistics, and optional seasonal activities like sake tasting or snow fun.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Don't need a guide? We can transport you to and from the park with seamless logistics from areas such as Nagano Station, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Matsumoto, and more!
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Snow Monkey Park General Information
Open every day of the year, the Jigokudani Monkey Park is one of Nagano’s most popular destinations. Our ‘Snow Monkey Park Information’ page has everything you need to know including opening times, prices, the park rules, FAQs, how to get there and more. We hope you enjoy your visit with our favourite furry friends.
Charter a Vehicle to the Snow Monkey Park!
If you just wish to explore on your own from Nagano to the snow monkeys, we offer instantly bookable round-trip or one-way charter services from various locations that allow you to explore the park (tickets included) with our private vehicles and drivers.
Taking about 50 minutes, enjoy a seamless journey from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park on our private van or bus. This journey would be ideal for those wanting to stay the night near the park or return back to Nagano via the express bus.
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Taking about 50 minutes each way, enjoy a seamless journey from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park on our private van or bus.
HAKUBA → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ HAKUBA
- Duration:
- 7-8 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Hakuba
We even offer charters to the monkey park from nearby ski resorts! Take a fun trip to the Snow Monkey Park on one of your off-days from the slopes.
Please see our charter page and send us your trip details so we can start planning your journey to the Snow Monkey Park. Many starting point options are available such as Nagano Station, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, and more.
25 Things to Do Around the Monkey Park & Where to Stay
Often referred to as the Snow Monkey Park, you’d be forgiven for thinking the park is only open and the monkeys only venture there in winter. While it’s true they are most famous for their winter antics, the monkeys come to the park all year round and there are just as many reasons to visit in spring, summer and autumn. Located in the beautiful rural enclave of Yamanouchi and within easy reach of Nagano City, visiting the park can be easily combined with plenty of nearby destinations and activities, as a day-trip or multi-day visit. Our ’25 Things To Do Around The Jigokudani Monkey Park & Where To Stay’ page has lots of tips and suggestions of what’s on offer and the best area to stay when visiting the monkeys.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. The Nagaden Express Bus operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no reservation system. We recommend arriving at Nagano Station East Exit Bus Stop No. 23 at least 15–20 minutes before departure during the peak winter season (December–February) to ensure a seat.
Yes. Starting in the 2025/26 season, you can pay your fare directly on the bus using Cash or Touch-Payment Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) when you exit at your destination. Prepaid IC cards like Suica or Pasmo are generally not accepted on this specific express route.
This is the most important change for 2025/26. There are now two separate passes:
Express Bus Pass (¥4,800): Includes a round-trip on the Direct Express Bus from Nagano Station + Park Admission.
Train & Local Bus Pass (¥4,000 approx.): Includes unlimited travel on the Nagaden Railway (Train) to Yudanaka + Local Bus to the park + Park Admission.
Note: The Train Pass is NOT valid on the Express Bus.
You can purchase this pass in person at the Nagaden Bus Ticket Center "Aruyo" ticket machine. It is located on the 1st Floor of the Nagano Station East Exit, near the elevators leading down to the bus stops. It is not purchasable online.
The bus drops you at the Snow Monkey Park Bus Stop. From there, it is a 7 to 10-minute walk uphill to the trail entrance (near Enza Cafe), followed by a 25 to 30-minute walk along the forest trail to reach the actual monkey habitat. Total walking time from the bus stop is approximately 40 minutes.
Yes, the express buses have under-floor luggage compartments for large suitcases and ski gear. However, we highly recommend storing large bags in the coin lockers at Nagano Station or using the SMR Gift & Info Shop luggage service at the trail entrance, as the 1.6km forest trail is not suitable for suitcases or strollers.
No. Nagaden operates a Winter Schedule (usually Dec 6 – Apr 6) with high-frequency service, and a Spring/Summer/Autumn Schedule with fewer daily departures. Always check the current timetable on this page before heading to the station.