Japanese macaques taking onsen bath in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a must-visit for any animal lover or anyone who wants to experience the truly unique sight. Located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan, the park is home to a troop of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, who have been bathing in the park’s hot springs for centuries.
The monkeys are attracted to the hot springs because they provide a warm place to relax and stay clean during the cold winter months. The water in the springs is also rich in minerals, which is thought to be beneficial to the monkeys’ health.
Visitors to the park can observe the monkeys from a viewing platform, which is located a short distance from the springs. The monkeys are relatively tame and will often come up to the platform to interact with visitors. However, it is important to remember that they are still wild animals and so treat them with respect.
In addition to seeing the monkeys bathe, visitors to the park can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Jigokudani valley. The valley is surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains, and the hot springs are located in a clearing in the forest. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and birds.
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months, when the monkeys are most active. The park is located about a 90-minute drive from Nagano City, and there are several bus and train routes that can take you there.
History of Japanese Macaques Onsen Bath at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
The Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park was established in 1958 by Soga Hara, the owner of a nearby guesthouse. Hara had noticed that the monkeys in the area were often seen bathing in the hot springs, and he decided to create a park where visitors could come to see them.
The park was initially met with some opposition from local residents, who were concerned about the impact that tourists would have on the monkeys. However, the park has since become a popular tourist destination, and the monkeys have adapted well to the presence of humans.
Things to Know Before Visiting Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
- The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months, when the monkeys are most active.
- The park is located in a mountainous area, so be prepared for cold weather and snow.
- There is a small entrance fee to the park.
- Visitors are asked to stay at least 10 meters away from the monkeys.
- Do not feed or touch the monkeys.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens so you can get a close-up view of the monkeys.
Conclusion
Watching these adorable japanese macaques while they onsen bath is a unique and unforgettable experience. The opportunity to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat is something that will stay with you long after you leave the park. If you are planning a trip to Japan, be sure to add Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to your list of must-visit destinations.
[…] The water in Onsens comes from volcanic sources. They are naturally heated and, based on their mineral or chemical composition, are believed to have therapeutic properties, which the facilities proudly promote. Rich in sulfur, sodium, carbonic acid, or iron, Japanese hot springs are known to help treat various ailments. They are also enjoyed by animals, as seen with the snow monkeys of Jigokudani soaking in the park’s hot waters. […]