Is Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan) Worth Visiting?
Jigokudani Monkey Park, also known as the Snow Monkey Park, is a truly unique destination and is all about observing Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs. Its popularity stems from the incredible opportunity to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, making it a standout feature of any trip to Japan.
The park's tourist appeal is undeniable, drawing visitors from all over the world eager to capture the iconic image of snow monkeys relaxing in the steaming onsen. It's an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the wild side of Japan.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Planning your visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park? Knowing the opening hours and the best time to see the snow monkeys will ensure you have the most rewarding experience. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your trip.
- Opening Hours: The park is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM between December to March, and from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM between April to October.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park is during the winter months (December to February) when the monkeys are most likely to be seen bathing in the hot springs. The contrast of the snow-covered landscape with the steaming water and the monkeys is a truly magical sight.
- Best Days/Times to Go: Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends. Arriving early in the morning, shortly after the park opens, can also help you avoid the larger crowds.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 2-3 hours for your visit. This includes the walk to and from the park entrance, as well as time to observe the monkeys and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Location Details about Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Want to know where is Jigokudani Monkey Park? This unique attraction is nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, offering a serene and natural setting for observing the famous snow monkeys. Here are the essential location details to help you plan your visit.
- Address: 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan
- Parking Availability: There is parking available near the park entrance, but it can get crowded during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The park is not fully wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain and walking paths. The trail to the park involves some uphill walking and stairs.
How Much to Enter / Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Planning a trip to see the snow monkeys? Knowing the ticket price and where to buy them is essential for a smooth visit. Here's a breakdown of the costs involved in visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park.
- Price: The entrance fee is typically around ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children.
- Pricing Variations: Prices are generally the same on weekends and weekdays. There are no specific discounts for different times of the year.
How To Go to Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Figuring out how to go to Jigokudani Monkey Park is a key part of planning your trip. Here are some convenient ways to reach this unique destination, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
- Train: Take the Nagano Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Nagano Station. From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Electric Railway to Yudanaka Station. From Yudanaka Station, take a local bus to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop, followed by a 30-minute walk to the park entrance.
- Bus: From Nagano Station, you can also take a direct bus to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop. This is a convenient option that reduces the amount of walking required.
- Ride Hailing: Ride Hailing is available in Nagano, but it may not be the most cost-effective option for the entire journey. It can be useful for shorter distances, such as from Yudanaka Station to your accommodation.
Things To Do in or near the Jigokudani Monkey Park
Looking for things to do nearby Jigokudani Monkey Park? While the snow monkeys are the main attraction, there are plenty of nearby activities and places to visit to make your trip even more memorable. Here are some ideas for things to see nearby and things to do nearby.
- Activities in Jigokudani Monkey Park:
- Observe the Snow Monkeys: Spend time watching the monkeys bathe, groom, and interact with each other in their natural habitat.
- Photography: Capture stunning photos of the monkeys and the beautiful surrounding landscape.
- Nature Walk: Enjoy the scenic walk through the forest to reach the park entrance.
- Learn about Macaques: Read the informative displays about the Japanese macaque and their behaviour.
- Relax and Enjoy the Scenery: Take in the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the park.
- Activities Nearby Jigokudani Monkey Park:
- Shibu Onsen: Explore this charming hot spring town with its traditional wooden buildings and public bathhouses.
- Yudanaka Onsen: Relax in the hot spring baths of Yudanaka Onsen, another nearby onsen town.
- Ryuo Ski Park: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at this popular ski resort during the winter months.
- Zenkoji Temple: Visit this historic temple in Nagano City, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan.
- Explore Obuse: Discover the quaint town of Obuse, known for its Hokusai museum and chestnut sweets.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Jigokudani Monkey Park Japan
Navigating public transport is essential for reaching Jigokudani Monkey Park. While there isn't an MRT nearby, knowing the nearby bus stops and train stations will help you plan your journey efficiently. Here's what you need to know about the nearby bus stops nearby.
- Yudanaka Station: This is the closest train station to Jigokudani Monkey Park. From here, you can take a bus to the Snow Monkey Park bus stop.
- Snow Monkey Park Bus Stop: This is the main bus stop for accessing the park. It's about a 30-minute walk from the park entrance.
Tips To Go to Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan) and Safety Tips
Planning a safe and enjoyable trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park requires some preparation. Here are some essential tips to ensure you have a fantastic experience while keeping safety in mind.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: The walk to the park entrance is about 30 minutes and involves some uphill walking.
- Warm Clothing: Especially during winter, dress in layers to stay warm in the cold temperatures.
- Water and Snacks: There are limited options for food and drinks inside the park.
- Camera: Capture the amazing sights of the snow monkeys and the surrounding landscape.
- Cash: Some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Respect the Monkeys: Do not touch or feed the monkeys. Maintain a safe distance and avoid direct eye contact.
- Follow Park Rules: Adhere to all posted rules and guidelines to ensure the safety of both visitors and the monkeys.
- Be Aware of the Terrain: The walking paths can be slippery, especially in winter. Wear appropriate footwear and watch your step.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
- Protect Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Best Hotel Area in Japan
Choosing the best area to stay in Japan can greatly enhance your travel experience. Each district offers a unique atmosphere and caters to different types of travellers. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to consider for your trip.
- Shinjuku, Tokyo: Best for first-time visitors and those who enjoy vibrant nightlife and shopping. Shinjuku offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional gardens, and bustling entertainment options.
- Ginza, Tokyo: Ideal for luxury travellers and those interested in high-end shopping and fine dining. Ginza is known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Kyoto City Centre, Kyoto: Perfect for culture enthusiasts and those who want to explore traditional Japanese architecture and gardens. Kyoto City Centre provides easy access to many of the city's most famous temples and shrines.
- Dotonbori, Osaka: Great for foodies and those who enjoy lively street food and entertainment. Dotonbori is famous for its bright lights, delicious street food, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Hakone: Suitable for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing retreat. Hakone offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, hot springs, and beautiful hiking trails.
Where to Eat Inside or near Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Looking for where to eat near Jigokudani Monkey Park? While options directly inside the park are limited, the surrounding area offers a variety of choices, from cosy cafes to local restaurants serving delicious japanese food. Here are some places to eat and where to go for lunch.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Enza Cafe: Located near Yudanaka Station, Enza Cafe offers a range of light meals, coffee, and desserts in a relaxed setting.
- Hotaru Tei: A traditional Japanese restaurant in Shibu Onsen, serving local specialities like Shinshu soba noodles and mountain vegetables.
- Sobakura Murata: Situated in Obuse, this restaurant is known for its delicious soba noodles made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Local Street Food:
- Oyaki: A Nagano specialty, oyaki are steamed or grilled dumplings filled with vegetables, meat, or sweet bean paste.
- Shinshu Soba: Soba noodles made from buckwheat flour grown in the Nagano region, known for their delicate flavour and texture.
- Nozawana Pickles: Pickled mustard greens, a local delicacy often served as a side dish with meals.
Shopping Places near Jigokudani Monkey Park (Shimotakai-gun, Nagano)
While Jigokudani Monkey Park is primarily a nature destination, there are shopping places nearby where you can find souvenirs, local products, and more. Here are some shopping street and shopping mall nearby options in the broader region.
- Nagano Station Area: The area around Nagano Station offers a variety of shops, including souvenir shops, department stores, and local markets.
- Aeon Mall Matsumoto: A large shopping mall located in Matsumoto, offering a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: An outlet mall located in Karuizawa, featuring a variety of international and Japanese brands at discounted prices.
Best Hotels to Stay near Jigokudani Monkey Park (Japan)
Finding the best place to stay near Jigokudani Monkey Park can enhance your overall experience. Here are some highly-rated hotels that offer comfortable accommodation and convenient access to the park and other nearby attractions.
- Ryokan Biyu no Yado: A traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) offering comfortable rooms, hot spring baths, and delicious local cuisine.
- Hotel Yudanaka: Located near Yudanaka Station, this hotel offers convenient access to the park and other nearby attractions.
- Shibu Hotel: Situated in the charming onsen town of Shibu, this hotel provides a relaxing retreat with hot spring baths and comfortable accommodations.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Jigokudani Monkey Park
While hotels with swimming pools directly near Jigokudani Monkey Park are limited, there are options in the broader Nagano region that offer this amenity. Here are some hotels with swimming pools in hotel for a refreshing dip during your stay.
- Hotel Metropolitan Nagano: Located in Nagano City, this hotel features an indoor swimming pool, as well as comfortable rooms and convenient access to transportation.
- Karuizawa Prince Hotel West: Situated in Karuizawa, this hotel offers both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a range of other amenities and activities.
- APA Hotel Nagano: Located in Nagano City, this hotel features an indoor swimming pool, as well as comfortable rooms and convenient access to transportation.
Hotels with Parking near Jigokudani Monkey Park
If you're driving to Jigokudani Monkey Park, finding a hotel with parking is essential. Here are some hotels with parking near the park or in the surrounding area, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Hotel Yudanaka: This hotel offers on-site parking for guests, making it a convenient option for those driving to the area.
- Shibu Hotel: Situated in Shibu Onsen, this hotel provides parking facilities for guests, allowing you to explore the area with ease.
- Ryokan Biyu no Yado: This traditional ryokan offers parking for guests, ensuring a convenient stay for those travelling by car.
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Best Accommodations near Japan Airport
For travellers seeking convenience and comfort near Japan's airports, there are several excellent accommodation options. These hotels offer easy access to the terminals, making them ideal for early morning flights or late-night arrivals. Here are some of the best hotels close to the airport.
- For those flying into or out of Haneda Airport, the Shinagawa Prince Hotel offers a fantastic location with easy access to the airport via train.
- Another great option near Haneda is the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, which provides stunning views of Tokyo Bay and convenient transportation links to the airport.
- The Hotel MyStays Premier Omori is also a good choice near Haneda, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to the airport via public transport.
- If you're flying through Narita Airport, the Narita Tobu Hotel Airport provides a convenient and comfortable stay with shuttle service to the airport.
- Another excellent option near Narita is the Hotel Nikko Narita, offering well-appointed rooms and easy access to the airport terminals.
- Lastly, the Narita Gateaway Hotel is a great choice for travellers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay near Narita Airport.
Average Room Rate hotels near Jigokudani Monkey Park
Planning your budget for accommodation near Jigokudani Monkey Park? The average room rate can vary depending on the season, hotel type, and availability. To find the best deals and hotel price, it's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and hotel discount.
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Conclusion
When planning your trip to see the enchanting snow monkeys of Jigokudani, booking through Traveloka offers a seamless and stress-free experience. With a wide selection of accommodations to choose from, you can easily find cheap hotels nearby that fit your budget and preferences. Traveloka's user-friendly platform allows you to compare prices, read reviews, and book with confidence, ensuring you get the best possible deal.
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Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the unique charm of Jigokudani Monkey Park. Start planning your trip today with Traveloka and take advantage of the best deals on flights and accommodations. Book Cheap Air Tickets to Japan and embark on an unforgettable journey to the land of the rising sun.