The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Snow Monkeys

I previously hosted an article that showcased the Hakuba Valley as one of the premier ski and snowboard destinations in Japan. Today, I am pleased to host guest writer John Blagys, who is currently living in Japan and experiencing the sights and sounds of Hakuba Valley on a regular basis.

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As a nature lover, I am super excited that John chose Travels with Bibi to share his ultimate guide to viewing the fascinating Japanese Snow Monkeys that are found in Hakuba Valley. Hakuba, and a visit to the Snow Monkeys, would be a fantastic bucket list travel destination!

The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Snow Monkeys

Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the Hakuba Valley is among the best places to ski in all of Asia. With an annual snow fall of 11 meters and a nearly endless number of runs, Hakuba is quickly becoming a global ski destination. In fact, 200,000 foreign travelers are expected to visit this year. But these visitors are not coming solely for the epic runs; they’re also visiting to see the only monkeys in the world known to bathe in hot springs.

Jigokudani Koen “Hell Valley Park”

Named for the volcanic activity that powers the hot springs in the area, wintertime in the park is a heavenly site. Set in a beautiful valley forest with breathtaking mountain views, Jigokudani Koen especially shines in the snowy season.

While visitors here will have access to some of Japan’s most beautiful forest views, the main attraction is of course the hot spring monkeys. The monkeys stormed onto the world stage in 1970 after the park was profiled on the cover of Life magazine. Since then, their popularity has continued to grow around the world.

Insider Tip:

 

Visitors must walk 25-40 minute through a beautiful snow-covered forest trail before reaching the hot spring area. The trail is well-marked and you’ll see plenty of other travelers so you won’t get lost.  Dress warmly, wear appropriate footwear, and enjoy the nature walk.

The Monkeys

After finishing up your walk, there will be an office selling tickets for ¥800 and from there you are ready to meet the monkeys! The monkeys congregate primarily in and around the hot spring but there will be opportunities to take pictures of them in various locations throughout the viewing area.

Insider Tip:

The monkeys have grown accustomed to being around people but are still wild animals; it’s best not to get too close and you should never try to touch them.

The Hot Springs

The Japanese Macaques bathe in the hot springs year round, but are naturally most photogenic against the wintry background. It’s not uncommon to see the monkeys cleaning each other in the bath or to witness baby monkeys playing in the snow before jumping in the warm pool.

The Troup

The troup of monkeys that frequent the hot springs are primarily females and children but the troup is organized in a strict hierarchy led by a dominant male, Tomamu 96 (born in 1996). Significantly larger than the other monkeys, Tomamu 96 has a large scar across his face, and always eats first during feeding time. Keep an eye out for Tomamu 96, but don’t get too close!

Access from Hakuba

There are three legs in the journey from Hakuba via JR Nagano Station.

1. First you will have to take a bus from Hakuba Bus Terminal to Nagano Station which takes about 1 hour and costs ¥1,800.
2. You will take a Train from Nagano Station you can catch the express train to Yudanka station. The trip takes 50 minutes and costs ¥1,160. (Nagano Station is about 2 hours from downtown Tokyo via bullet train)
3. Then, it’s a 10 minute bus ride to the monkey park and the station staff will be able to assist you in purchasing a ticket.

Park Hours

9:00am – 4:00pm

Guided Tours

If you’d like to join a guided tour please visit hakuba.com for more information.

Author Bio: John Blagys is an American expat who has been living in Japan for over 4 years. He enjoys cycle touring, Japanese baseball, and living in the mountains. John manages the marketing efforts at hakuba.com, the one stop shop for all your Hakuba information.

Conclusion

I am in awe of these beautiful Snow Monkeys. Have you ever experienced a unique and fascinating animal in your travels? Let us know which animal was your favorite to see in the comments below. John and I would love to read about your experience.

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