Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Prepare for a 1.6-kilometer forest hike. Dress for mountain weather and arrange your transport from Nagano well in advance.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
Kanbayashi Onsen, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District
GPS 36.7323, 138.4717
Open directionsGetting there
Public transport routes to the Kanbayashi Onsen trailhead.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: From Kanbayashi Onsen bus stop and parking area to the park entrance via the unpaved forest trail. | 25-35 minutes (1.6 km each way) | Free | Mandatory walk for all visitors; not wheelchair accessible. The path can be very slippery and muddy in winter. |
| Bus: Direct Nagaden express bus from Nagano Station East Exit to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop. | 41 minutes | Covered by ¥6,800 Snow Monkey Pass | The most direct public transit option from Nagano, but schedules are less frequent than trains. |
| Train: Nagano Dentetsu Line from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station, then transfer to a local bus to Kanbayashi Onsen. | Approx. 60 minutes total | Covered by ¥6,800 Snow Monkey Pass | A highly scenic train route. The Snow Monkey Pass covers the train, local bus, and park entry fee. |
| Tour: Guided day tours from Nagano Station including private bus transport and an English-speaking guide. | Half-day or full-day (4-8 hours) | From $63 USD | Often bundles Zenko-ji Temple, sake tasting, or lunch. Serves as a guaranteed way to enter the park during winter restrictions. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Winter (December to March) is the peak season. The monkeys bathe frequently to escape the cold. Arrive early to avoid heavy crowds. Spring (late April to early June) offers views of newborn monkeys clinging to their mothers.
Summer and autumn are quieter. The monkeys rarely bathe in warm weather, but you can still observe them foraging in the river valley.
What to bring
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The 1.6 km forest trail is mandatory for all visitors.
It takes 25-35 minutes each way and is not accessible for wheelchairs.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules from Nagano.
A direct morning trip to the park and back to Nagano city.
- Depart Nagano Station
Take the direct Nagaden express bus (41 minutes).
- Arrive at Kanbayashi Onsen
Rent snow boots or crampons at the Info & Gift Shop.
- Hike the Forest Trail
Walk the 1.6-kilometer path through the Yokoyu River valley.
- Observe the Monkeys
Watch the troop bathe in the hot spring pool.
- Hike Back
Return down the unpaved trail to the bus stop.
- Return to Nagano
Catch the express bus back to the city center.
Combine the monkey park with Nagano's famous Buddhist temple and local food.
- Visit Zenko-ji Temple
Explore the historic temple in Nagano city.
- Train to Yudanaka
Take the scenic Nagano Dentetsu Line train.
- Local Bus to Trailhead
Transfer to a local bus heading to Kanbayashi Onsen.
- Lunch at Hotaru-tei
Eat a hot meal in a restored 160-year-old mansion.
- Walk to the Park
Hike the 1.6 km trail and visit the observation areas.
- Explore Shibu Onsen
Visit the nearby traditional hot spring town before heading back.
Packing for the trail
Winter visitors must wear heavy-tread snow boots or slip-on ice crampons. The path becomes extremely icy and muddy. Bring a warm, waterproof winter coat, thermal layers, gloves, and a hat.
For all seasons, carry cash in Japanese Yen for buses and lockers. Leave heavy luggage at the station lockers. Bring bottled water, as vending machines are limited past the entrance.
Easiest way to do it
1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake in Nagano
8 h 4.9 (1,157)
- Hakuba shuttle service (winter only)
- Lunch (vegetarian and vegan options available, please try to let us know in advance)
- Snow Monkey Park entry fee
- English-speaking guide
From$142per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do I get to Jigokudani Monkey Park from Nagano Station?
You can take a direct Nagaden express bus, which takes 41 minutes. Alternatively, ride the Nagano Dentetsu Line train to Yudanaka Station, then transfer to a local bus. The train route takes about 60 minutes total.
What kind of shoes do I need for the Snow Monkey Park trail?
In winter (December to March), you need snow boots with heavy tread or slip-on ice crampons. The trail gets very icy. In other months, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are sufficient.
Are there luggage storage lockers near the Snow Monkey Park?
Yes, you can leave bags at the Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop near the trailhead. However, it is best to leave large luggage in lockers at your starting train station.