Jigokudani: watch, without getting closer

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is in Yamanouchi, Nagano. Its Japanese macaques are wild animals, not pets separated from visitors by cages. Watch from a distance; if a monkey approaches, move away rather than reaching out.

The park permits ordinary camera and phone photography. Keep equipment away from the animals. Drones, selfie sticks and putting cameras in the pool are prohibited. Do not show or offer food, and do not touch or startle the monkeys.

The approach is unpaved, and the park has slopes, steps and stairs. The operator says wheelchairs and carts cannot be used on the approach or within the park. In winter it recommends snow-appropriate footwear. Check current opening information and conditions before travelling; weather and the monkeys’ movements can change the visit.

Operational note checked 6 November 2026: winter hours from November through March are 09:00–16:00; arrive at least 30 minutes before closing. The operator has announced revised admission fees from 1 December 2026 and priority entry for online-ticket holders from December through April. Confirm the applicable fee and ticket conditions with the park; the revised amounts have not been verified here.

Planning information checked 2026-11-06. Services, access and rules can change. Confirm your date and route with the official provider.

• Park: visitor rules
• Park: opening information
• JNTO: Jigokudani
• Park: admission-fee revision notice

Two Japanese macaques at a steaming pool at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. Captured 2025-03-18, according to source and original camera metadata; not a live report of weather, water flow, foliage or animal behaviour. Photo: Romain Guy / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 1.0.

Two Japanese macaques at a steaming pool at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park — Romain Guy, CC0 1.0. Captured 2025-03-18.

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