Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park is famous for its Macaca fuscata (Japanese macaques) soaking in natural hot springs in a steep Alpine valley. Visitors come year-round to watch the snow-covered monkeys lounge on the thermal waters—especially dramatic in winter—often streaming in from nearby pine forests. The park’s walking paths connect from the village of Yamanouchi and are paved but somewhat steep, making for an accessible yet rewarding wildlife outing. Nearby attractions include the Shiga Kogen ski region and cultural sights in Yamanouchi.
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Geography
| Address | Jigokudani Valley, Yamanouchi, Nagano, JapanYamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Continent | Asia |
| Region | East Asia |
| Subregion | Eastern Asia |
| Country | Japan |
| State | Nagano Prefecture |
| County | Yamanouchi |
| District | Jigokudani Valley |
| City | Yamanouchi |
| Neighborhood | Jigokudani Valley |
| Postal Code | 381-0401 |
| Timezone | AsiaTokyo |
| Latitude | 36.7315 |
| Longitude | 137.8307 |
| Maps |
4:56 AM LOCAL TIMEJigokudani Monkey Park sits in a mostly forested valley near Yamanouchi in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The park’s star attraction is the Macaca fuscata, which descend from higher elevations in winter to bathe and rest in open outdoor thermal springs—the natural hot pools are a melting pot of social behaviors, mother-infant pairs, and seasonal visitors. Trails leading into the park are well-maintained and gradually ascend from the trailheads above the valley floor, passing through cedar and pine stands that turn snow-white in winter. The park is best known for winter visits when snowfall transforms the landscape; in warmer months, the monkeys are still active but the scenery is lusher and the access more straightforward. Facilities are minimal—boardwalk overlooks and viewing platforms—and the atomic-hot springs are for monkeys only. Visitors should prepare for cold winds and variable weather; warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and respect for wildlife are essential. The site is a short bus or car ride from Yamanouchi, which offers thermal spa towns, traditional ryokans, and access to regional ski areas like Shiga Kogen.
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