Why choose this Nagano tour ?
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.
Make the most of your Nagano adventure
What makes Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Local Guide a unique experience ?
The tour starts from this station.
This tourist information center is pretty small, but interesting and has quite good information for tourists. You can take a map or brochure for free.
Jigokudani Fountain is blowing high. Jigokudani means Hell Valley in Japanese, Jigokudani Fountain is designated as a national natural monument. The hot spring that gushes from the bottom of the river is a natural fountain that can be up to 20 meters high. It’s dynamic landscape is also great!
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.
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.
Known as ‘ashi-yu’ in Japanese, the foot spa can be used free of charge and offers simple relaxation when awaiting your train. Simply take your shoes and socks off, roll-up your pants and rest your feet in the thermal water. After a day of exploring the monkey park, it’s amazing how much this simple action refreshes your body and reinvigorates you for the journey ahead.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in and do not bring heavy baggage because you will walk the mountain paths
- A maximum of 8 people per booking
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
- Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Local Guide
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Explore Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park with a Local Guide Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Bus tickets
- Professional guide
- Foot Spa
Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks, unless specified
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Special Instructions:
- This Tour is Provided by Trip Designer Inc..
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Tokyo.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- This Tour is Rated 4.5 Stars based on 18 valid reviews on VIATOR.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 8 Travelers is accepted for booking.
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.