Snow Monkey Park it is home to a curious troop of monkeys most famous for their unique behavior of being the only monkey troop in the world to bathe in hot springs. While most commonly visited in the winter, the park is open every day of the year, and each season offers their own fun reasons to visit.
Where is the Snow Monkey Park?
The Snow Monkey Park is around 35KM / 50-minutes to the north-east of central Nagano City. Open every day, the monkeys come to the park through the year making it one of Nagano’s most popular attractions. The park is located in the small hot spring village of Kanbayashi Onsen, which itself is located in the wider region of Yamanouchi – a region including the park, multiple hot spring villages, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, the smaller ski resorts of Kita-Shiga Kogen and Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. Once you are here, get ready to be WOWed by these fascinating creatures!
Best Tours to the Snow Monkey Park
As Nagano's No.1 tour operator, we are proud to offer multiple tours that combine a visit to the Snow Monkey Park with other fun local activities. No matter the season, we can help you make the most of your time in Nagano. Whether with your family or friends, or on your own, we are sure to have something that suits your needs!
Group Tours to the Snow Monkey Park
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Our most popular offering is our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple and Sake in Nagano". Guests on this delightful excursion will first be treated to Sake Tasting and a guided tour of the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano, including lunch at a nearby restaurant.
With the first half of the tour complete, you will then depart for the Monkey Park on our private tour vehicle. Once you have arrived your guide will lead the way up to the place the Monkeys call home, before you once again board the bus and return to your starting destination.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityYudanaka/Shibu
For those guests coming in the winter, we also offer the "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun in Shiga Kogen", combining exciting snow activities such as sledding and riding snow scoots with a visit to the Monkey Park. Lunch is also included, making for the perfect day trip for anyone looking to experience what winter in Nagano is all about!
Recommended
(Spring Only) 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Another unforgettable tour is our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano". Including two of Japan's most amazing natural spectacles, the blooming of the Cherry Blossoms and the hot-spring loving monkeys of Jigokudani, this offering is the easiest way to enjoy a relaxed spring day in Nagano.
Private Tours to the Snow Monkey Park
For those who want a more customized experience, we also offer private tours of the Snow Monkey Park and nearby attractions such as Zenkoji Temple and Obuse. We offer multiple pickup/drop off options including Nagano City, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen, and more. For all Private Tour options to the Snow Monkey Park, please see here.
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
Recommended
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Starting from Nagano Station or any Nagano City Hotel, we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off in the Nagano City area or any of Nagano's 5 Main Ski Resorts!
[START FROM HAKUBA] Private Snow Monkey Tour
Recommended
[START FROM HAKUBA] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Hakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Starting from Hakuba, we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off in the Nagano City area or any of Nagano's 5 Main Ski Resorts!
[START FROM NOZAWA/MADARAO] Private Snow Monkey Tour
Recommended
[START FROM NOZAWA/MADARAO] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nozawa OnsenMadarao
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadarao
Starting from Nozawa Onsen or Madarao Kogen, we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off in the Nagano City area or any of Nagano's 5 Main Ski Resorts!
[START FROM SHIGA KOGEN] Private Snow Monkey Tour
Recommended
[START FROM SHIGA KOGEN] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Shiga Kogen
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Starting from Shiga Kogen, we will pick your party up in our private vehicle to take you on your private tour and drop you off in the Nagano City area or any of Nagano's 5 Main Ski Resorts!
Best Itineraries to the Snow Monkey Park
There are many great locations in Central Japan so why not combine them together? This section has a selection of some of our tours that you have already read about above and interesting ways to combine them. One of the greatest benefits of these tours is the transportation. You can relax and enjoy the tour as you travel across the region and finish in a city where you can continue your trip easily. The selection of tours is ever expanding so check back for more later or inquire with us if you are interested in something specific!
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun Winter Tour inc. Luxury Onsen Hotel
New Tour
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun Winter Tour inc. Luxury Onsen Hotel
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyShiga Kogen
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Available from December to March, this family-friendly two-day tour highlights the best of Nagano in winter with a visit to Zenko-ji – one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples – and visit to the Snow Monkey Park on Day 1, followed by a morning of snow fun activities in Japan’s largest ski resort – Shiga Kogen – and early afternoon return to Nagano on Day 2. A luxurious stay at one of Nagano's best hot spring hotels also included for an unforgettable experience.
Best 2-Day Nagano Winter Itinerary: Ski Japan & See Snow Monkeys
Only have a couple of days to spare? This 2-day Nagano itinerary blends the best of the region—from snow monkeys and ancient temples to sake tasting and skiing—while returning to Nagano City each evening, allowing you to relax and stay in the same hotel throughout your trip.
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Nagano Cultural Tour inc. Luxury Villa Stay
New Tour
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Nagano Cultural Tour inc. Luxury Villa Stay
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Running throughout the year, this engaging two-day tour combines a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park with some of Nagano’s most historic cultural attractions including Zenko-ji – one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan – and guided ‘sake’-tasting in Nagano City on Day 1. Your dream stay awaits at Hotarutei, a luxury villa accommodation with a private hot spring attached. The following day, simply relax or explore as you wish, and have our private bus take you back to Nagano Station where your tour concludes.
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Nagano Cultural Tour inc. Luxury Onsen Hotel
New Tour
2-Day Snow Monkeys & Nagano Cultural Tour inc. Luxury Onsen Hotel
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Running throughout the year, this engaging two-day tour combines a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park with some of Nagano’s most historic cultural attractions including Zenko-ji – one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan – and guided ‘sake’-tasting in Nagano City on Day 1, then walking in the footsteps of Japan’s most celebrated artist, Hokusai Katsushika, including visits to the Takai Kozan Museum, Obuse Hokusai-kan Museum and to view his last and largest remaining ‘in-situ’ artwork – the giant phoenix of Gansho-in Temple on Day 2. Including accommodation at one of Nagano’s best hot spring hotels and led by a locally based guide*.
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano to Takayama via Matsumoto
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaMatsumoto
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Takayama
This tour combines some of the region’s most iconic destinations - including the world-famous Snow Monkeys, the 1400-year-old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, and Narai-juku - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty.
(Green Season) 4-Day Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa: The Ultimate Central Japan Tour
(Green Season) 4-Day Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa: The Ultimate Central Japan Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaKanazawaMatsumotoKamikochiShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
From majestic mountain peaks to delicious local sake, and of course the famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, our carefully crafted multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you to every location you dreamed of, and many you may not have even heard of yet. Starting in Nagano and ending in Kanazawa, this tour is perfect for those wishing to move through central Japan and removes the necessity of dealing with sometimes confusing train and bus transfers.
4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary With Ninjas, Samurai, and Snow Monkeys From Nagoya to Nagano - All Year Round
Step into a world of history, adventure, and unique cultural experiences with this unforgettable 4-day family-friendly journey through Central Japan. From the hidden streets of Gujo Hachiman to the heart of ninja legends and the awe-inspiring beauty of Nagano's snow monkeys, this itinerary is packed with memorable moments for all ages. This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Japan’s deep cultural roots in a way that’s fun, engaging, and perfect for families.
4-Day Japan Highlights Itinerary with Fuji, Sumo and Snow Monkeys from Tokyo All Year
For travelers who are fans of seeing some iconic attractions in Japan, this 4-day itinerary will satisfy the most curious of travelers. You will be able to enjoy views of Mount Fuji, see the impressive sport of Sumo, witness Snow Monkeys naturally bathing in hot springs, see and climb a breathtaking Castle and walk along the historic road of Narai Juku.
5-Day Winter in Japan Itinerary with Skiing, Mountains and Snow Monkeys from Tokyo December - March
For travelers who are fans of seeing winter and nature in Japan, this 5-day itinerary will include iconic attractions along the way to satisfy travelers. You will be able to the experience the iconic spot of Hakone and see Mount Fuji, take in the history and beauty of Kanazawa and Shirakawago, witness the Alpine region of Nagano, enjoy skiing and seeing Snow Monkeys bathing in hot spring, and much more!
5-Day Japan Highlights Itinerary with Kanazawa, Snow Monkeys, and Tenryu Riverlands from Osaka April - November
For this 5-day itinerary, you'll travel from Osaka to Kanazawa, where you'll discover beautifully preserved samurai districts, serene gardens, and centuries-old traditions. After soaking in Kanazawa’s charm, you'll head to Nagano, where you’ll have time to unwind and explore its rich cultural heritage, including Snow Monkey Park, before enjoying an adventurous day of fruit picking and river rafting in the scenic Tenryu Riverlands.
6-Day Spring in Japan Itinerary with Cherry Blossoms, Snow Monkeys and Deer from Tokyo Start of April
For this itinerary we suggest a 6 day Spring plan that covers Tokyo, Nagano, Kanazawa, Nara, Hiroshima and Miyajima. This itinerary is perfect for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the stunning Cherry Blossoms, and offers a good variety of attractions along the way. We hope this will help you when planning where to go and what to do on your dream Spring trip!
6-Day Central Japan Itinerary with Shirakawago, Sumo and Snow Monkeys from Tokyo All Year
For travelers who want to visit the attractions of Central Japan, this 6-day itinerary will provide just that. You will be able to enjoy the old and new in Tokyo including watching Sumo, the stunning Castle landscape of Matsumoto and Narai Juku, witness the UNESCO heritage site of Shirakawago, walk around the beautiful Kanazawa, witness the Snow Monkeys naturally bathing in hot springs, and so much more!
7-Day Cultural Highlights of Japan Itinerary with Shirakawago, Shrines and Snow Monkeys from Tokyo All Year
For travelers who want to visit the iconic attractions off Japan’s golden tourist route, this 7 day itinerary will provide just that. You will be able to enjoy the lively side of Tokyo in Shinjuku and Shibuya, the traditional side of Tokyo in Ueno and Yanaka, the stunning landscape of Nagoya, see the historic town of Takayama, witness the UNESCO heritage site of Shirakawago, walk around the beautiful Kanazawa, witness the Snow Monkeys naturally bathing in hot springs, and so much more!
10-Day Discover Central Japan Itinerary with Snow Monkeys, Geisha, and the Nakasendo Trail Starting and Ending in Nagoya - Spring & Fall only
Embark on a 10-day adventure of culture, cuisine, and captivating landmarks! Discover Japan's hidden gems as you are led by our English-speaking guides as they take you off the beaten path. Explore ancient temples, scenic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of this fascinating country.
Private Charters to the Snow Monkey Park
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 Shiga Kogen. For a full list of charters to the Snow Monkey Park, please see here. Please see below for some of our instantly bookable charter services.
Round-Trip from Nagano Station to the Snow Monkey Park
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Taking about 50-minutes each way, ensure your journey from Nagano Station to the monkeys is safe, comfortable and convenient with our charter service.
Round-Trip from Hakuba to the Snow Monkey Park
HAKUBA → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ HAKUBA
- Duration:
- 7-8 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Hakuba
Taking about 90-minutes each way, ensure your journey from Hakuba to the monkeys is safe, comfortable and convenient with our charter service.
Round-Trip from Nozawa Onsen to the Snow Monkey Park
NOZAWA ONSEN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NOZAWA ONSEN
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Nozawa Onsen
Taking about 45-minutes each way, ensure your journey from Nozawa Onsen to the monkeys is safe, comfortable and convenient with our charter service.
Round-Trip from Shiga Kogen to the Snow Monkey Park
ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR) → ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA (SHIGA KOGEN)
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Shiga Kogen
Taking about 30-minutes each way, ensure your journey from Shiga to the monkeys is safe, comfortable and convenient with our charter service.
Where to Stay When Visiting the Snow Monkey Park
Hotarutei Villas
Only a few minutes' walk from the trailhead leading to the famous 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-year renovated farmhouse - which contains a Japanese restaurant and a special lounge area for villa guests to use freely.
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku
Located in Kanbayashi Onsen - the gateway to the Snow Monkey Park - this elegant hotel is known for its indulgent 'onsen' (hot spring) and outstanding meal service. Surrounded by pine forests, cherry trees (blooming in spring) and Japanese maples which change colors with the seasons, Senjukaku was also a favorite with the Japanese Emperor, who regularly visited before ascending to the throne.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit the Snow Monkey Park?
Most famous for their love of hot springs and antics in winter, the monkeys do in fact come to the park all year round! Each season offers its own reasons to visit. Winter is by far the most popular season while spring, summer and autumn are notably quieter... at least in terms of the number of humans in the park! The monkey's behavior and routine are reliable throughout the year. While there can be some fluctuation in the times they come to and leave the park each day, visitors to the park can be confident that the monkeys will come almost every day of the year.
How do I get to the Snow Monkey Park?
If you're headed to the monkey park using public transport, you are almost certain to do so via Nagano Station. As a stop on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line running from Tokyo to Kanazawa, Nagano Station is the nearest major station to the park. From Nagano Station, visitors have the choice of using a direct express bus directly to the park or alternatively, a train to Yudanaka Station followed by short local bus ride to the park. For full details of how to get there from Nagano, please see our How To Get To The Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Do the monkeys come to the park every day, including outside of winter?
The monkeys are expected at the park every day of the year, not just in winter. The park is situated within the territorial radius of this troop of monkeys meaning that coming into the park is a natural part of their daily activity. Furthermore, park rangers incentivize them to come with small amounts of food each day - further information about why they do this can be found on our ‘Snow Monkeys & Their Hot Spring: Why They Love It’ page. The troop is referred to as 'snow monkeys' due to their renowned ability to live and thrive in the depths of winter however don’t let this mislead you, they are just as comfortable in spring, summer, and autumn and come to the park at all times of the year.
It is important to note that the monkeys are wild. There are no barriers forcing them to stay in the park meaning that they are free to come and go as they please. It is therefore possible that occasionally only a small number of monkeys will come to the park on a particular day, or very rarely, none at all. While this can occur, it is not common and most typically occurs in autumn when an abundance of wild fruits and nuts in the mountains, and mating season, can preoccupy the monkeys’ minds.