Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture is home for the native Japanese macaque (Japanese Snow Monkeys), soaking in lukewarm natural onsen (hot spring).
These red-faced monkeys inhabit the area, which is snow-covered for one-third of a year. Thus, plunging in hot springs could have helped in their survival in the cold weather.
This is an opportunity for all to observe the behavior of these apes, and watch their facial expressions upclose whenever they bathe in onsen.
Jigokudani is located in the valley of Yokoyu River. Across the river is Korakukan Ryokan where humans can enjoy hot spring in cold winter days.
Ride a bus to Kanbayashi Onsen from Yudanaka Station, Shibu Onsen or Nagano Station, buses along the Yudanaka-Kanbayashi Line stop at "Kanbayashi Onsen" bus stop, while other buses stop at the "Snow Monkey Park" bus stop. From Kanbayashi Onsen, it is a 30-40 minute walk to the monkey park.
Entrance fee is 500 Yen. The park is open daily, from 8:30 to 17:00 (April to October) and 9:00 to 16:00 (November to March).