A group of Japanese macaques resting by the hot springs at Jigokudani.

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The Trail & Kanbayashi Onsen

Kanbayashi Onsen serves as the gateway village and trailhead for the Snow Monkey Park.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Before reaching the monkeys, all visitors must pass through this settlement and hike the forest path. The approach requires a 1.6-kilometer walk through the Yokoyu River valley.

This area provides your last chance to rent winter gear, store heavy luggage, or grab a meal before entering the park.

Several Japanese macaques, including a young one, bathing in steamy hot springs.

Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop

15-30 minRentals & Storage

This hub sits right at the trailhead. You can rent snow boots or buy slip-on ice crampons for the slippery winter walk. It is the best place to use luggage storage lockers so you do not carry heavy bags on the trail.

Illuminated snow huts lining a path at night during a winter snowfall.

Forest Trail (1.6 km Walk)

1.6 km each way25-35 min

This flat but unpaved path is the only way to reach the monkey park. The walk takes about 25 to 35 minutes each way. Because of mud and stairs, it is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

A traditional Japanese meal featuring raw meat, mushrooms, rice, and soba noodles.

Hotaru-tei

1-2 hoursGourmet meals

This restored 160-year-old historic mansion sits just a few minutes from the bus stop. It serves gourmet local meals in a traditional setting. Book a warm lunch here after finishing your hike back from the park.