As the weather warms up in April, and Nagano escapes its long, cold winter, spring offers lots of reasons to visit the Snow Monkey Park. It is a time of renewal and new beginnings as the region’s cherry blossoms bloom in April, and the park welcomes the newborn babies for the season. On this page you will find the following information:
Snow Monkey Park Operating Hours in Spring
The Snow Monkey Park operating hours are not the same year-round, so it is very important to make sure that you double check the hours before visiting. The operations are split into two main periods, the green season of April - October, and the winter season of November - March. As Spring is composed of the months of March through May, you can see that the season is actually is split between the two periods. The green season operations are 08:30 - 17:00, while the winter season is 09:00 - 16:00. Because of this, if you visit in March you will need to abide by the winter season rules, while if you are making your trip in April or May you will have the longer green season hours. Please note that the park hours are subject to change on any given due to extreme inclement weather or other events which interfere with park operation. Additionally, the date of switchover between the two operation periods may not always coincide exactly with the first day of the month.
Top Places to Visit in the Snow Monkey Park area in Spring
Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen
In walking distance or a short bus ride away from the monkey park, the charming onsen villages of Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen are lovely to visit for a few hours or even stay the night. There are many ryokans (traditional Japanese guesthouses) in which you can stay or just use the hot spring for the day. Despite the traditional Japanese vibe, there are a nice selection of Japanese and Western restaurants in the area that are sure to please in combination with a trip to the Snow Monkey Park.
Ueda Castle
Mid-April is peak cherry blossom season in Nagano. Hillsides, parks, and city streets are covered in beautiful sakura (cherry blossoms). During the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, the castle grounds are covered in a variety of cherry trees and are even illuminated at night. No festival is complete without food! There are many yatai food stalls that line the outer moat of the castle, so you can snack on traditional festival food while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Zenkoji Temple
About 50-minutes from the monkey park by car, Zenkoji is one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples. Built in dedication to the first known Buddhist statue to be brought to Japan, the temple has stood watch over the city – in one form or another – for nearly 1400 years. To this day, Zenkoji remains an important destination for Buddhist pilgrims while also being one of Japan’s most open and welcoming temples. A morning ceremony is performed every day with visitors of any background or faith invited to attend. The temple also plays host to many events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year and remains the spiritual heart of the region.
Obuse
Obuse is a small but historic town around around 30-minutes from the Snow Monkey Park. Famous for its chestnut confectioneries, 'miso' and 'sake' breweries and the Hokusai-san Museum, Obuse is popular with older Japanese who enjoy its quiet ambience and mix of gardens, temples, shops, and restaurants. A good option for a morning or afternoon visit in combination with a visit to the nearby Snow Monkey Park, Obuse also offers a limited amount of accommodation, mostly small family-run guesthouses.
Shiga Kogen
Boasting Nagano’s longest ski season, you can plan to ski in Shiga Kogen until April! Located around 30 minutes away from the Snow Monkey Park and thus is extremely popular with visitors wanting to combine their ski trip with a visit to the park.
Shiga Kogen is known as one of Japan’s largest and highest altitude ski resort, but there's plenty more to this area than just great powder. During spring, you can enjoy hiking through highland marshes and forests at altitudes above 2,000 meters.
Sora Terrace
About 25-minutes away from the monkey park, Sora Terrace Ropeway operates for most of the year including from May until November. The upper station is located at 1770 meters above sea level, from which point an observation deck provides a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape, looking west toward the North Japan Alps.
Tips for Visiting in Spring
- Plan early: The Snow Monkey Express Bus does not run as frequent in the spring. It is recommended to know in advance which bus/train you will take to the park and back. For more information about how to get to the park, please see the following: How To Get To The Jigokudani Monkey Park. *March still operates in schedule with the winter timetable.
- Bring a jacket: March in the Snow Monkey Park may technically be spring, but it's still a lot like winter with frequent snow and freezing temperatures. Towards the end of the month, there may be a few warmer days, but a jacket will still be a good item to bring with you.
- Wear appropriate shoes: The dirt trail leading to the park is almost entirely flat, and it is not dangerous or difficult. However, we recommend wearing sneakers or athletic shoes. Hiking shoes are not necessary unless you prefer them. Heels and sandals are not recommended at any time of the year. When snow melts on the trail, it can become very muddy. For your convenience, the Snow Monkey Resorts Gift & Info Shop, located next to the trail entrance, offers shoe covers for sale (¥600) to wear over your sneakers to prevent them from getting muddy.
- Rainy Season: Although the exact period and duration vary each year, Japan's rainy season typically starts in June. An umbrella or raincoat is useful when sudden showers are common.
Spring Tours at the Snow Monkey Park
Group Tours
Recommended
(Spring Only) 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
This tour combines a visit to the Snow Monkey Park with an afternoon of cherry blossom-viewing at some of Nagano's best blossom spots. Known as 'sakura' in Japanese, the beautiful and fragile flowers are a must-see for any visitor to Japan, with Nagano's countless blossom trees coming into bloom later than other areas - the perfect activity to combine with your visit to the Snow Monkeys in spring!
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
Operating year-round and offering a full day itinerary including sake tasting, lunch, a visit to the historic Zenkoji Temple and of course a guided tour of the Snow Monkey Park, this day tour is the best option for anyone looking to explore Nagano with ease. Instead of worrying about catching trains or buses, you can instead ride on our tour bus with a guide who will make sure to handle all of the difficult parts for you.
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 2-day tour combines a visit to the Snow 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
- 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 Monkey Park, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Narai-juku, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With an English-speaking guide on both days, accommodation, and transport between locations included, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
(Green Season) 4-Day Tour from Nagano to Kanazawa: The Ultimate Central Japan Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTakayamaKanazawaMatsumotoKamikochiShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Kanazawa
Running from mid-April to November, this carefully crafted multiple day group tour of this amazing region of Japan will bring you the Snow Monkey Park along with other fascinating locations on your bucket list, and many you may not have even heard of yet.
Private Tours
Also operating year-round are our private tours to the monkey park starting from various locations: Nagano City, Matsumoto City, Nozawa Onsen, Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, Myoko, and Karuizawa. The locations visited are the same as our group tour, in addition to a visit to the charming town of Obuse. With a private vehicle, driver, and guide catering to your group the entire day, join one of our private tours for a deluxe way to explore some of Nagano's greatest sights.
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour / all year round
Based in Central Japan and operating all-year-round, we offer a highly entertaining private tour of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, the Historic Zenko-ji Temple, and the charming town of Obuse so that you can experience the best of what Nagano has to offer in the company of your friends and family. All tours are led by locally-based guides and combine a visit to several places-of-interest in Nagano City from the mischievous monkeys to grandiose temples. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.
Recommended
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, and this private tour allows you to be picked up anywhere in Nagano city, and be dropped off at any location in Nagano City, as well as any of the 5 major ski resorts of Shiga Kogen, Myoko Kogen, Hakuba, Madarao, and Nozawa Onsen! All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
Got a question about visiting the different areas of Nagano City? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below or contact us and let’s get planning together!
Private Snow Monkey Tour from Hakuba / all year round
Recommended
[START FROM HAKUBA] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Hakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
Want to enjoy door-to-door service from your hotel, while appreciating the Snow Monkeys and some of Nagano's other top attractions with the full attention of your guide? Look no further than our private tour with pickup from one of Nagano's top ski resorts, Hakuba. Once you have informed us of your hotel, our guide will be there at the arranged time on the day to escort you first to the Monkey Park, and afterwards to the charming town of Obuse and the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City. Even more, you will be treated to a great Japanese style lunch that may end up being one of your favorite meals of your trip. Our private tour vehicle will be with you all day, giving you a place to store luggage as necessary while you are enjoying the sights, and also offering you the option to end the tour at Nagano Station if you have already checked out of your hotel and are looking to catch a train to your next destination. This is your best way to enjoy the Snow Monkeys and much more at your own pace.
Private Snow Monkey Tour from Matsumoto or Azumino / all year round
Recommended
[START FROM MATSUMOTO/AZUMINO] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyMatsumoto
- Pick-up:
- Matsumoto
- Drop-off:
- Matsumoto
Want to enjoy door-to-door service from your hotel, while appreciating the Snow Monkeys and some of Nagano's other top attractions with the full attention of your guide? Look no further than our private tour with pickup from one of Nagano's most visited regions, the Matsumoto/Azumino area. Once you have informed us of your hotel, our guide will be there at the arranged time on the day to escort you first to the Monkey Park, and afterwards to the charming town of Obuse and the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City. Even more, you will be treated to a great Japanese style lunch that may end up being one of your favorite meals of your trip. Our private tour vehicle will be with you all day, giving you a place to store luggage as necessary while you are enjoying the sights, and also offering you the option to end the tour at Nagano Station if you have already checked out of your hotel and are looking to catch the Shinkansen to Tokyo or other destinations. This is your best way to enjoy the Snow Monkeys and much more at your own pace.
Multi-day Tours
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 of Jigokudani, the 1400-year old Zenko-ji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Narai-juku, and the historic old town of Takayama - with the unforgettable experience of being driven through Japan’s Northern Alps, a place of high mountain peaks and rarefied beauty. With an English-speaking guide on both days, and transport between locations included, this tour captures the history and beauty of central Japan with the convenience and comfort of one easy package.
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.
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*.
New Tour
2-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Samurai Experience & Zenkoji 'Shukubo' Stay
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
This memorable two-day tour explores Nagano’s samurai past on day one with a visit to Matsushiro including visits to some of Japan’s best-preserved samurai residences and hands-on experience at an Edo Period military school followed by an overnight stay a traditional ‘shukubo’ (temple lodging), before enjoying a tour of Zenkoji Temple, guided ‘sake’ tasting and a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park on the second. All led by a locally-based guide, this engaging tour is available throughout the year and offers real insight through firsthand experience of Nagano’s spiritual underpinnings, samurai heritage with the fun of the monkeys!
(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.
Best Spring Itineraries to the Snow Monkey Park
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 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.
Charters to the Snow Monkey Park
Please see our charter page and send us your trip details so we can start planning your customized journey to the Snow Monkey Park. Many starting point options are available such as Nagano Station, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Matsumoto, and more. Please see here for a complete list of instantly bookable charters to the Snow Monkey Park.
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Taking around 50 minutes each way, ensure a smooth and safe journey with our round-trip charter service in one of our private buses.
MATSUMOTO → SNOW MONKEY PARK → MATSUMOTO
- Duration:
- 6-7 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Matsumoto
Taking around 90 minutes each way, ensure a smooth and safe journey with our round-trip charter service in one of our private buses.
NOZAWA ONSEN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NOZAWA ONSEN
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Snow Monkey, Nozawa Onsen
Taking around 45 minutes each way, ensure a smooth and safe journey with our round-trip charter service in one of our private buses.