Nagano: Snow Monkey Park tour with guide & foot spa

Summary

Walk snowy trails to meet Nagano’s famous hot spring monkeys

You’ll follow snowy forest trails with a local guide to watch Nagano’s famous snow monkeys soaking in hot springs at Jigokudani Park. Warm up afterward with apple pie and coffee near Yudanaka station before relaxing tired feet in a free thermal foot spa—a simple pleasure you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the steam—rising in little bursts from the ground, curling around our boots as we followed our guide up the narrow path. It smelled faintly like boiled eggs (sulfur, I guess), and honestly, I kept glancing down expecting to see something bubbling under the snow. Our guide, Saito-san, pointed out the way the trees leaned over the trail, heavy with last night’s snow. He told us “Jigokudani” means “Hell Valley,” which made me laugh because it felt more like a winter fairy tale than anything hellish.

I’d seen photos of the snow monkeys before, but seeing them up close at Jigokudani Monkey Park was different—there’s this quiet moment when you catch one looking back at you from the steam, face all pink and serious. They just sit there soaking in the hot spring like old men at an onsen. One little guy splashed his friend and then darted off into the white woods. Saito-san explained they only bathe in winter to keep warm; in summer they’re off somewhere else, probably judging tourists from afar. The walk itself isn’t hard but it’s slippery—my boots nearly betrayed me twice.

Afterwards, waiting for the bus back to Yudanaka station, we ducked into a tiny café for apple pie and coffee (the pie was warm and cinnamon-y; my gloves still smelled like it later). There’s a free foot spa near the station—just roll up your pants and dunk your feet in. I didn’t expect much but wow, after hiking through snow it felt like my toes were waking up again. A couple of locals were there too, chatting quietly while steam curled around their ankles. We all just sat there for a bit, not really talking.

I still think about that monkey’s stare sometimes—like he knew something I didn’t. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park from Nagano or Yudanaka, just go for it. Bring good shoes though… trust me on that part.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Visit

• Start from station
• Visit tourist information center
• See Jigokudani Fountain
• Explore Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Monkey Park)
• Grab coffee or apple pie at café
• Relax at foot spa (ashi-yu)

Top questions

How do I get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park from Yudanaka station?

The tour includes round trip bus tickets from Yudanaka station directly to the park area.

Are there guides on this tour?

Yes, a professional local guide leads the group throughout the experience.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No full lunch is included, but you can buy snacks like apple pie and coffee near Yudanaka station after visiting the park.

Can I use a foot spa during this trip?

Yes, there is a free foot spa (ashi-yu) available near Yudanaka station after your visit to Jigokudani Monkey Park.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

No, travelers should have at least moderate fitness as mountain paths can be slippery and uneven.

What should I wear or bring for this day trip?

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on snowy or muddy mountain paths; avoid heavy baggage.

When do monkeys bathe in the hot springs?

The snow monkeys usually soak in hot springs during winter months when it’s cold; they don’t bathe much in warmer seasons.

How many people are on each tour group?

A maximum of 8 people per booking is allowed on this guided tour.

What’s included

Your day includes round trip bus tickets from Yudanaka station, entry fees to Jigokudani Monkey Park, guidance from a professional local guide throughout your visit, plus time to enjoy both apple pie and coffee nearby and relax your feet in a free thermal foot spa before heading back home.