Jigokudani Snow Monkeys & Shiga Kogen Snow Day Trip

Summary

Wild monkeys, deep snow and laughter in Japan’s winter heart

You’ll laugh through powdery snow rides in Shiga Kogen before warming up over lunch near the ski fields. Then comes a quiet forest walk to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild macaques soak in steaming springs right before your eyes. This isn’t just another day trip—it’s a mix of fun, awe, and those small moments you keep thinking about long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to watch a monkey soaking in hot springs while you’re standing there with frozen fingers? I didn’t—until we took this day trip from Nagano up to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen. Our guide, Yuki, met us right on time (he had that calm way about him—like he’d seen every kind of weather). The drive up was all winding roads and snow so thick it muffled everything except the crunch under our boots when we finally piled out. First stop: Shiga Kogen. I thought snow was just… well, cold, but here it’s soft and dry, almost powdery. We tried snowscoots (I fell off immediately; Yuki grinned but didn’t say anything), then sleds and those big tubes that make you feel five years old again. My cheeks hurt from laughing. Lunch was simple—hot noodles at a place right by the ski fields—but honestly, nothing has ever tasted better after tumbling around outside for hours.

After lunch, it was off to see the famous snow monkeys. There’s a 1.6km walk through the forest to get there (longer in winter because of the snow), and I’ll admit: I was worried about slipping or getting cold feet. But the trail is beautiful—quiet except for the sound of your own breath and the occasional crow overhead. When we reached the park, steam rose from the hot springs and there they were: wild macaques just lounging around like little old men at a bathhouse. One baby monkey stared straight at me while picking something out of its mom’s fur—I still think about that look sometimes. Yuki told us how these monkeys learned to love hot water during harsh winters; apparently nobody taught them—they just figured it out themselves.

I guess what surprised me most wasn’t just seeing wildlife up close or playing in all that fresh snow—it was how peaceful everything felt, even with other visitors around. The whole day just moved at its own pace, no rush anywhere, which is rare when you travel. On the way back down the mountain, my boots were soaked but my head felt clear. If you’re thinking about booking this snow monkeys tour from Nagano or looking for a day trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park with some real winter fun thrown in…well, I’d do it again if I could feel that hush of falling snow one more time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snow fun and snow monkeys visit

• Travel to Shiga Kogen ski resort
• Enjoy snow activities with snowscoots and sleds
• Have lunch at ski field restaurant
• Walk to Jigokudani Monkey Park
• Observe snow monkeys for one hour
• Walk back from monkey park

Top questions

How far is Jigokudani Monkey Park from Shiga Kogen?

The park is roughly 30-40 minutes by vehicle from central Shiga Kogen resort area.

Is lunch included on this snow monkeys & Shiga Kogen tour?

Yes, lunch at a restaurant next to the ski fields is included in the tour price.

How long is the walk to Jigokudani Monkey Park?

The walk is 1.6 km each way (about 25 minutes in summer; longer in winter due to snow).

What activities are available in Shiga Kogen during this tour?

You can use snowscoots, snowdrives, sleds and tubes in a sectioned-off activity area.

Is transportation provided for this day trip?

Yes, transportation from your chosen meetup point to all destinations and back is included.

Are guides English-speaking?

Yes, your guide will be locally based and English-speaking.

Can children join this tour?

Infants aged 0-5 can join free of charge (no meal included); specialized infant seats are available.

Do I need special clothing for winter conditions?

You should wear warm waterproof clothing and boots; rental outfits are available for ¥500 each.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your preferred location, all transportation between Nagano city, Shiga Kogen resort and Jigokudani Monkey Park, entry fees for both parks and activities (snowscoots, sleds etc.), an English-speaking local guide throughout the journey plus a hot lunch near the slopes before heading into monkey territory—then return transport back at day's end.