MEET THE SNOW MONKEYS: Japan’s Wild Hot Spring Bathers
Updated June 2025
Tucked deep within the mountainous heart of Honshu lies one of Japan’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters: the Japanese Macaque—the world’s northernmost living primate. Known affectionately as Snow Monkeys, these remarkable creatures have become global icons thanks to their unique winter ritual: soaking in steaming natural hot springs.
This is how to stay warm in winter! Watch wild Japanese Macaques—also known as Snow Monkeys—soak in natural hot springs in Jigokudani, Japan’s “Hell Valley”. - Wildlife Photography by Drew Sproule
Who Are the Snow Monkeys?
Japanese Macaques (Macaca fuscata) are a terrestrial Old World monkey species native to Japan. Exceptionally intelligent, highly social, and incredibly adaptable, they thrive in climates far colder than most other primates could endure—some even live where winter snow blankets the ground for months.
What truly sets them apart is their ingenious relationship with nature. Decades ago, a few curious macaques discovered the warm comfort of natural hot springs, or onsen, in the snowy Jigokudani region. What began as an accidental encounter quickly evolved into a daily ritual. Today, over 160 macaques descend from the steep cliffs and forest to soak, socialize, and survive the cold in steaming pools—mirroring the local human tradition.
Where to See Snow Monkeys in Japan
The best place in the world to observe this fascinating behavior is Jigokudani Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen-Koen) in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Opened in 1964, the park was established to protect the monkeys and allow researchers and visitors alike to witness this rare primate behavior up close.
Jigokudani, which translates to “Hell Valley,” may sound ominous—but the name refers to its steaming geothermal landscape and dramatic cliffs, not the experience! Set against this rugged terrain, the park offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers to watch the monkeys bathing freely in the open-air onsen—particularly magical in winter, when snowflakes gather on their fur as they soak.
Plan Your Visit
Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in Yamanouchi Town, near the traditional hot spring villages of Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka:
2.5 km from Shibu Onsen
7 km from Yudanaka
33 km from Nagano City
The park is open year-round, but winter is by far the most iconic season to visit, when the monkeys’ warm bath time contrasts dramatically with the snow-covered landscape.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the day to see the monkeys at their most active, and don’t forget your camera—the ethereal scene of red-faced macaques soaking in misty springs is unforgettable.
I can watch these young Japanese Macaques (also known as Snow Monkeys) all day long. They're just like us, always pushing the boundaries with the adults! And then acting like ‘butter wouldn’t melt’.- Wildlife Photography by Drew Sproule
Why You Should Visit
A trip to Jigokudani isn’t just about seeing monkeys—it's about witnessing natural behavior rarely observed anywhere else in the world. It’s about the blend of tradition, nature, and wildlife unique to Japan. Whether you're a wildlife photographer chasing iconic moments or a nature lover in search of a profound travel experience, the Snow Monkeys of Japan will leave a lasting impression.
SUMMER*
April to October 08:30am – 17:00pm
WINTER*
November to March 09:00am – 16:00pm
ADMISSION FEES*
ADULT
Single ticket 800yen
Group ticket
(20 more people) 680yen
Annual Pass 5,000yen
CHILD
Single ticket 400yen
Group ticket
(20 more people) 340yen
Annual Pass 2,500yen
*Information correct as of June 2025
There are no roads from the park entrance to the hot springs, so, during the winter months, be prepared to walk for approximately 25mins on a single, snow-covered track through the forest to get to the monkeys.
It's worth the effort !
A note of caution before I sign off - like most primates (including humans), an unblinking stare directly into the eyes is seen as challenge, a statement that you are a healthy individual and you are challenging the other for their position in the troop. The majority of primates (big and small) are most frighteningly equipped to answer any challenge, with both males and females possessing prodigious canines as well as the ability to react quickly.
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