Jigokudani Wild Snow Monkey Park

The forest trail is part of the visit: from the bus stop or car park, walk about 30 minutes along an unpaved path to the park. In winter, ice can make it slippery, so footwear with good traction is recommended. Opened in 1964, the park lets visitors observe macaques that live in the mountains rather than animals kept in captivity.

The official guide lists year-round opening: 8:30 am–5:00 pm from April to October and 9:00 am–4:00 pm from November to March. Staff attract the monkeys with a regulated feeding routine, but the park says they may not appear on a particular day. Adult admission is ¥800 through 30 November 2026; fees change from 1 December, so check the official page if visiting later.

Recent comments celebrate seeing family groups and the winter hot-spring scene, but warn about slippery trails, transport costs and the possibility that monkeys will not enter the water. This is a patient wildlife visit, not a guaranteed photo opportunity. Allow time for the trail in both directions; uneven surfaces make the park unsuitable for wheelchair access.