Explore Yamanouchi - Home of the Snow Monkeys

Home to the Jigokudani Monkey Park and ski resorts of Shiga Kogen and Kita-Shiga Kogen, Yamanouchi is at its most popular in winter yet offers just as many reasons to visit through spring, summer and autumn. Blessed with numerous sources of natural thermal water, Yamanouchi has a strong association with healing, refuge and renewal including use of Shibu Onsen’s restorative waters for medicinal purposes for around 1300 years. Today, the area is home to many guesthouses offering traditional service including ‘kaiseki’ (multi-course) meal service and hot springs reserved for the exclusive use of guests.

The surrounding landscape supports farms producing some of Central Japan’s best produce while the forests and mountains bordering the villages of Yamanouchi, account for more than 90% of the local area. Known for their deep powder and scenic beauty in winter, Shiga Kogen and Kita-Shiga Kogen offer some of Nagano's best hiking, cycling and nature photography from spring to autumn. Within the boundaries of Yamanouchi, visitors can visit Shiga Kogen Highlands - a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - and the surrounding landscape of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park - Japan's fourth largest national park and home to a unique array of flora and fauna. Yet despite all this, Yamanouchi still flies somewhat under the radar for international visitors but in doing so, has retained an authentic and welcoming character.