Jigokudani Yaen-koen is home to hundreds of “snow monkeys”, known as such because they spend their days soaking in the mountainous hot springs. In 1970 they appeared on the cover of Life magazine in the U.S. due to this unique behaviour. Furthermore, in 1998, when the winter Olympic Games was held in Nagano, lots of athletes, media, and tourists from foreign countries visited.

Monkeys don’t soak in the hot spring in the warm season because they bathe in order to prevent from the severe coldness in winter. Soaking in the hot spring is only one part of the monkeys’ life. You can also see them lazing or frolicking on the nearby mountain and forest.

Meet at Yudanaka Station and travel by bus and walking to Jigokudani Yaen-koen

Hike from the bus stop through the Yumichi walking trail

Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you undertake a relaxing hike through the forest in order to reach the snow monkeys.

Jigokudani Yaen-koen

Located in the Yokoyu River Valley at an altitude of 850m, the Jigokudani Yaen Koen is known as "Hell Valley" due to the steep cliffs and steam emitting from the springs. It's buried in snow for a third of the year but is a paradise for the monkeys of Nagano area as they enjoy bathing in the hot springs to warm up.

Break time at Enza Cafe

If you're feeling a bit peckish while waiting for the bus to Yudanaka Station, we recommend grabbing some coffee or apple pie for takeout at this café here.

Foot Spa at Yudanaka Station

After all that walking, treat your weary feet to a relaxing outdoor foot spa. The hot natural mineral waters will soothe and heal you.