Jigokudani Monkey Park Is A Hot Spot

Jigokudani hotspring in Nagano Japan 001
Jigokudani hotspring in Nagano Japan 001 (Photo credit: Yosemite~commonswiki)

Visitors to the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Japan can watch more than 200 wild monkeys in their natural habitat. Open year-round, the park offers a close view of Japanese Macaques, otherwise known as Snow Monkeys, bathing in hot springs.

Jigokudani Hotspring Gorakuen
Jigokudani Hotspring Gorakuen (Photo credit: MGA73bot2)

Because Snow Monkeys are wild, visitors are advised not to touch one or eat food in their presence. However, guests can sit near monkeys and observe their behavior. Cameras are allowed. Access to the park is via train, bus or auto. All methods of travel require a short walk through a forest.

Macaca Fuscata, also known as Japanese Snow Monkeys, in Jigokudani, Yudanaka, Japan 06
Macaca Fuscata, also known as Japanese Snow Monkeys, in Jigokudani, Yudanaka, Japan 06 (Photo credit: Angelica Kaufmann)

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, established in 1964, is part of the Joshin-etsu Kogen National Park.

Shiga Kogen (30610822195)
Shiga Kogen (30610822195) (Photo credit: Batholith)

See also