Jigokudani Monkey Park Day Trip

On this day trip to Nagano, you will encounter the iconic Japanese snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park as they relax in the hot springs of Hell Valley. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at Shinshu Fruitsland.

Day Trip Details

The day trip will commence with a meeting in front of the LOVE sculpture at 6-Chome-5-1. Once all participants are gathered, the vehicle will transport you to Nagano in approximately 3 hours. During the journey, the urban landscape of Tokyo will transition into beautiful mountain scenery, traditional villages, and snow-covered pine trees, offering a glimpse of rural Japan.

Your first stop will be Shinshu Fruitsland, where a typical beef sukiyaki lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients awaits. This traditional dish, slow-cooked in a sweet and salty broth, is perfect for warming you up. Along with the meal, complimentary water and hojicha, a roasted green tea, will be served. After dining, you will have some free time to explore the market.

Next, you will continue the journey to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This natural sanctuary, nestled in Hell Valley, is home to the nihonzaru, or Japanese macaques. Upon arrival, you will embark on a 30-minute walk along a snowy forest path to reach the area where steam from the hot springs rises amid the mountains.

Here, the monkeys engage in their unique ritual in the onsen (hot springs), while snow falls gently around them. It is fascinating to note that these macaques are the only non-human primates known to indulge in hot springs for pleasure. Observing them in a state of relaxation, with steam swirling and eyes half-closed, is a captivating experience.

As the evening approaches, the tour will take you to Kamakura no Sato, a village that transforms between January and February when its small snow huts are illuminated by candles, creating a magical winter atmosphere.

Finally, you will embark on the return journey back to the meeting point in Tokyo, concluding your day after 12 to 13 hours of exploration.

Itinerary Changes

From January 23 to March 1, 2026, Kamakura no Sato will be included in the itinerary. During the rest of the year, the return to Tokyo will occur 1 hour earlier.

Please Note

• A 30-minute walk is required from the car park in Jigokudani to reach the area where the snow monkeys reside.
• Given that the monkeys can be territorial and unpredictable, it is advised to keep a safe distance and avoid direct eye contact. They may also not be present in the hot springs upon arrival.
• The lunch menu may vary based on the availability of ingredients.