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 traditional hot spring towns, sprawling ski resorts, or convenient urban transit hubs nearby.
Explore with Nagano’s No.1 Tour Operator: Based locally and operating year-round, we specialize in award-winning group tours, private custom itineraries, and registered travel agency packages that bundle your transport and accommodation to save you time and money. Just hit the inquiry button in the bottom right corner of the page!
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.
Best Selling
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji Temple & Sake in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyHakuba
- Pick-up:
- Nagano CityHakuba
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakuba
We will update this passage as soon as official details are released by the park.
Best Areas to Stay Nearby the Monkey Park
When visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park, you really are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. In this section we will discuss accommodation options in each of the following areas:
The park is located in one of a grouping three hot spring villages/towns that combine to offer numerous accommodation options including high-end, mid-range and budget options hotels and guesthouses. Many have their own hot springs and offer traditional 'kaiseki' (multi-course) meal service combining for a true Japanese experience nearby the monkeys. Alternatively, many visitors head to the park as a day-trip from nearby Nagano City while in the mountains above the park, Shiga Kogen is Japan's largest ski resort and part of the larger Joshinetsu Kogen National Park - a great all-year-round destination from where it's also easy to visit the the park. Let's begin with the nearest accommodation to the monkey park:
KANBAYASHI ONSEN AREA / can access the park on-foot
The monkey park trailhead sits right at the top of this peaceful hot spring village. Hosting just a handful of high-end traditional guesthouses (ryokan), it is bustling by day but exceptionally quiet and serene at night. It is just a 5-minute drive to the dining scenes of Shibu or Yudanaka, and 20 minutes up the mountain to the Shiga Kogen ski fields.
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku
- The Vibe: A highly elegant, historic ryokan favored by the Japanese Royal Family. Renowned for its immaculate service, gorgeous indoor/outdoor hot springs, and exceptional multi-course kaiseki dining.
- Rooms: Traditional futon or mixed Western-Japanese styles; premium rooms feature private attached onsen.
- Price Range: ¥20,000 – ¥100,000+
Hotarutei Villas
- The Vibe: Two ultra-luxury, self-contained private villas perfect for families or groups of up to 6 looking to unwind in absolute privacy.
- Amenities: Fully furnished kitchenettes, 2 Western bedrooms, a spacious living area, and a private open-air hot spring bath (rotenburo).
- Price Range: ¥22,000 – ¥74,000
SHIBU ONSEN AREA / <5-minutes drive from the park or 25-minute walk
Shibu Onsen is a remarkably preserved, 1,300-year-old historic hot spring town packed with traditional wood-frame architecture. Concentrated within a charming, compact valley, it has retained its authentic Edo-period character much more than neighboring Yudanaka Onsen and offers a vibrant evening atmosphere.
- The Nine Public Baths: Overnight guests staying at any local ryokan receive a master key unlocking nine distinct public bathhouses (soto-yu) scattered along the cobblestone lanes for a traditional, therapeutic onsen crawl.
- The Vibe: It is the ideal spot for travelers who want a historic, cultural town setting filled with traditional footbaths, local izakayas, and cozy bars to explore in your yukata (cotton robe) after dark.
For accommodation listings, see our ‘Shibu Onsen Area’ hotel page.
YUDANAKA ONSEN AREA / 5-minutes drive from the park or 45-minute walk
Spanning outward from Yudanaka Station, the final rail stop connecting directly to Nagano City, Yudanaka Onsen offers a wide variety of accommodation. While it shows its mid-century age and lacks the quaint, preserved cobblestone charm of neighboring Shibu, it is the ultimate choice for travelers prioritizing straightforward logistics, transit access, and abundant room availability.
- The Transport Advantage: Direct express and local buses to both the Jigokudani Monkey Park and the Shiga Kogen ski fields depart right from the station entrance.
- The Experience: Most properties feature their own private natural hot springs and serve traditional, multi-course kaiseki meals.
Traditional Ryokan: Yudanaka Seifuso
- The Vibe: A cozy, award-winning, family-run guesthouse built during the Meiji era, sitting just a 2-minute walk from Yudanaka Station. Highly popular for its authentic, welcoming atmosphere.
- Highlights: Features four distinct natural hot springs—including a Shiga Kogen stone outdoor bath and seasonal apple/rose-petal baths—with free private-use family booking options. Renowned for being exceptionally accommodating to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
- Price Range: ¥10,000 – ¥25,000
Traditional Ryokan: Issa no Komichi Biyu no Yado
- The Vibe: A welcoming, family-friendly hot spring hotel celebrated for its incredible array of mineral-rich jacuzzi and rooftop baths.
- Highlights: Features three private natural hot spring sources, a dedicated "onsen meister" to maintain perfect temperatures, and complimentary guest shuttles directly to the monkey park trail.
- Price Range: ¥15,000 – ¥45,000
For a complete list of station-side hotels, transit schedules, and budget accommodations, explore our comprehensive ‘Yudanaka Onsen Area’ hotel portal.
SHIGA KOGEN AREA / 20 to 60-minute drive from the park (or depending on exact destination and season)
Sitting within Shiga Kogen Highlands and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Shiga Kogen is Japan's largest and highest ski resort. It boasts the region's longest winter season (late November to May) and transforms into a lush hiking haven from spring to autumn.
Because lodging is scattered across a massive alpine territory, it can be helpful to note the travel times from the monkey park: gateway areas like Sun Valley and Hasuike take just 15 to 25 minutes, while deep resort areas like Okushiga or Yokoteyama take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the season.
Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga
- The Vibe: The premier luxury mountain lodge in Shiga Kogen, beautifully blending cozy European log-and-stone architecture with flawless Japanese hospitality.
- Highlights: Seamless ski-in/ski-out trail access, a majestic lounge with an open log fireplace, fine dining, panoramic mountain-view baths, a indoor heated pool, and a sauna.
- Price Range: ¥10,000 – ¥70,000
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (Yakebitaiyama)
- The Vibe: A massive, highly convenient slope-side resort complex split into distinct wings to cater to varying budgets and styles.
- Highlights: Exceptional ski-in/ski-out lift access, direct on-site ski rentals, multiple buffet dining options, and rooms tailored perfectly for families and snow lovers.
- Price Range: ¥10,000 – ¥20,000
Hotel Sunny Shiga (Takamagahara)
- The Vibe: A warm, incredibly welcoming, and highly practical mid-range hotel located right in the centralized hub of Takamagahara. Excellent for families and groups who prioritize value and easy access to the whole mountain.
- Highlights: Situated just a 1-minute walk from the Takamagahara chairlifts, making exploring multiple interconnected ski areas effortless. Features a spacious 24-hour natural mineral hot spring bath (onsen) to unwind after a day on the snow, generous Japanese/Western buffet meals, and exceptional value.
- Price Range: ¥8,000 – ¥18,000
For a detailed geographical breakdown of the mountain's different villages and complete lodging listings, explore our 'Where To Stay In & Around Shiga Kogen? guide.
KITA-SHIGA KOGEN / 30 minutes by car
Kita-Shiga Kogen is a hidden-gem alpine zone consisting of four interconnected ski resorts. While almost completely unknown to international travelers and frequently overlooked, it is highly popular with Japanese locals who flock here every winter to enjoy incredible powder, deep snowpacks, and uncrowded tree lines.
Hotel / Ski Lodge: T Hotel Ryuoo
- The Vibe: A sleek, modern luxury mountain hotel where adventure meets premium comfort, located directly at the gateway of the renowned Ryuoo Ski Park.
- Highlights: Seamless slope-side access to 14 sweeping ski courses, stunning mountain-top panoramas, and exceptionally stylish, spacious rooms and suites designed for families or groups.
- Price Range: ¥20,000 – ¥70,000
NAGANO CITY AREA / 50-minutes drive from the park
The vast majority of travelers using public transport access the monkey park via Nagano Station—located just 45 to 50 minutes away via direct express bus, or an hour away via local train and connecting bus. Basing yourself here provides the ultimate, most convenient launchpad for exploring the wider region.
- The Hub Advantage: All major regional train lines, daily guided tours, local ski buses, and bullet trains (Shinkansen) operate directly from the station.
- The Vibe: The station district features modern, Western-style hotels with excellent English-speaking staff and competitive pricing. For a more traditional stay, the historic lanes surrounding Zenko-ji Temple (a 15-to-20-minute walk from the station) offer smaller, authentic shukubo (Buddhist temple lodgings).
International Hotel: Hotel Kokusai 21
- The Vibe: The city's most established, premier international hotel, ideally situated in a quiet district between Nagano Station and Zenko-ji Temple.
- Highlights: Exceptionally spacious Western rooms, 24-hour English-speaking reception, multiple fine-dining in-house restaurants, and an excellent daily breakfast service.
- Price Range: ¥8,000 – ¥20,000
Modern Value: Hotel New Nagano NeXT
- The Vibe: A highly affordable, completely refreshed business lifestyle hotel located a mere 2-minute walk from Nagano Station.
- Highlights: Features ultra-comfortable bedding, private bathrooms, and smart TVs equipped with streaming capabilities—offering premium, modern comfort well above its budget price point.
- Price Range: ¥6,000 – ¥12,000
For a complete map of station-side hotels, transit schedules, and temple stay reservations, explore our comprehensive ‘Nagano City Area’ hotel portal.
25 Things to do Around the Monkey Park
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' page lists some of the best things on offer throughout the year. We hope that we can entice you to visit!
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.
Tours and Charters to the 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!
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!
Popular
(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.
Small Group
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow MonkeyTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Or, if you would like to see more of Nagano's breathtaking nature and learn about its spiritual history, you can join our "1-Day Tour: Snow Monkey Park & Togakushi Shrine in Nagano". This tour combines a visit to the Snow Monkey Park with a trip to Togakushi Shrine, also known as the “Five Shrines,” famous for its rows of towering ancient cedar trees lining the path to the inner shrine.
Popular
[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
- Spots:
- NaganoSnow Monkey
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano CityHakubaNozawa OnsenShiga KogenMadaraoMyoko
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. For more information, please click the link above or send us an inquiry describing your ideal itinerary.
Charter a Vehicle 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 more.
Please see our safe, timely, personalized transportation option to and from the Snow Monkey Park from Nagano Station.
NAGANO STN → SNOW MONKEY PARK (3HR)→ NAGANO STN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nagano, Snow Monkey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you want classic cobblestone streets, traditional wood-frame architecture, and authentic ryokan dining, book your stay in Shibu Onsen or Kanbayashi Onsen. Kanbayashi is exceptionally peaceful and right at the park trailhead, while Shibu Onsen offers a more lively evening scene and access to nine historic public bathhouses.
Choose Yudanaka Onsen if your primary goal is to be close to the monkey park, experience a natural hot spring, and have direct mountain bus access right at your doorstep.
Choose Nagano City if you want a flexible, centralized basecamp to explore multiple areas (like Togakushi, Matsumoto, and the monkeys) over a few days, prefer large Western-style hotels, or want a bustling culinary and craft beer scene at night.
Yes. If you stay in Kanbayashi, Shibu, or Yudanaka Onsen, you can take the direct Nagaden Express Bus from Yudanaka Station up into Shiga Kogen. It takes about 20 to 25 minutes to reach the first ski bridges (Sun Valley/Hasuike). However, if you are a dedicated powder hunter looking for first tracks or night skiing, we highly recommend booking a ski-in/ski-out lodge directly inside Shiga Kogen or Kita-Shiga Kogen.
Only if you stay in Kanbayashi Onsen, where properties like Hotel Senjukaku and Hotarutei Villas sit within a 5-to-10-minute walk of the actual trailhead. If you stay in Shibu Onsen, it is a 25-minute walk (or 5-minute taxi) to the trailhead. From Yudanaka Station, it is a 45-minute walk, so taking a local bus or hotel shuttle is highly recommended.
Important Reminder: The trailhead only marks the start of the trail. All visitors must still walk the 1.6 km (25-30 minute) forested path through the valley to reach the monkey sanctuary.
Almost all traditional ryokan and hotels in Yudanaka, Shibu, and Nagano City will happily hold your luggage at the front desk for free before check-in or after check-out. If you are doing a quick day trip without staying overnight, large coin lockers are available at Nagano Station and Yudanaka Station.
Yes, but they fill up fast. Traditional ryokans primarily feature Japanese-style rooms with tatami mat flooring and on-floor futon bedding. However, premier properties like Hotel Senjukaku offer "mixed rooms" featuring twin Western beds set over traditional Japanese design, while Hotarutei Villas offer completely standalone Western luxury setups.
Navigating individual train lines, express buses, and peak-season hotel bookings independently can quickly add up. As a registered travel agency and Nagano's premier tour operator, we offer all-in-one customizable packages. We can bundle your private transport, curated hotel accommodations, and guided day tours together—passing local operator discounts directly onto you.