A visit to the snow monkeys is one of the highlights of a visit to Japan.

Located in Jigokudani, translated as Hells Valley, the snow monkeys are unique that they are the only known monkeys that bathe in hot springs. The park was open in 1964 and since then numerous of visitors have enjoyed seeing the monkeys.

The monkeys keep warm in the hotspring from the bitter winter weather.

The park is located about 90mins from Hakuba

The park is open daily from;

April - October 8:30am to 5:00pm

November - March 9:00am - 4:00pm                        

Admission is 500yen per person.

The hike to the hot-springs takes about 20 to 30 minutes each way from the car park. Please bring sturdy shoes and warm clothing.  

Ski Japan Holidays have organised tours to the Snow Monkeys

The tour visits the Snow Monkeys as well as visits to Obuse, a historical  town famous for Japanese artists Hokusa's favorite place. The tour also visits Zenkoji Temple in Nagano City.

The tour leaves Hakuba at 8:00am and arrives back in Hakuba at 5:30pm 

Days: Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Price includes lunch at Obuse. 

Adults  10,000yen  Children 8,000yen