Snow Monkeys
Fun Facts
The world famous Snow Monkeys live in Jigokudani Monkey Park which is situated in Yamanouchi Town in Nagano Prefecture and is a great down day activity to give the legs a rest from the mountain.
It is easy to get to from the hut either on the daily bus or catch a train and bus. The park is a popular tourist attraction during the winter and pics of the monkeys sitting in the hot spring have been seen all over the world.
The name Jigokudani meaning “hell valley” comes from the steaming geysers that are around the area. When you arrive to the park area you will walk through the forest to the park which takes about 20-30min.
While they are used to people you should still be aware that they are wild animals so dont try and put your child on the back of a snow monkey and especially watch your camera/phones/bags and food as they will try to knock them off.
Also make sure you are wearing suitable clothing/footwear suitable for the track as it can get a bit iced up and muddy.
Getting to the park & Costs
BUS
There is a daily shuttle that departs Akakura Onsen at around 10am and returns at 4 pm This shuttle requires no reservation just rock up and bring cash as card is not accepted.
Adult 4,500 JPY Child 3,500 JPY (return trip price)
TRAIN & BUS
Alternatively if the time above doesn’t line up with your schedule you can use take the train from Myoko to Nagano and then use the bus from Nagano station to the park
Park Information
Hours: Winter (Nov – Mar) 9:00am – 4:00pm
Admission Fee: Adult 800yen Child: 400yen
For more information:
Visit offical website HERE or the Myoko Tourism website has the latest bus and train schedule
