Jigokudani Snow Monkey Trail
Jigokudani - wild snow monkeys (macaques) bathing in a steaming onsen, best in deep winter snow
The route
The line through Nagano (Yamanouchi), Japan - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Best Dec-Mar (deep winter)
Cold, snow, ice on the path
Open year-round but the classic snowy scene is Dec-Mar; the path is icy - cleats help. Confirm.
On the trail
A snowy forest path to a hot-spring pool full of macaques
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Accessible to most walkers and families; not fully wheelchair accessible - confirm
Wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) - keep your distance and no food
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Year-round monkeys, but winter for the snow scene
Getting there & staying
Kanbayashi Onsen, from Nagano
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Ice cleats/microspikes in winter
Services in Nagano; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
Park entry fee to the monkey park; the trail is a forest walk
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Icy path, cold, wildlife etiquette
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.