Visiting Japan in winter is a truly unique experience, especially when you get the rare chance to witness the famous snow monkeys bathing in an onsen (Snow Monkey Onsen). On December 17, 2023, we had the incredible luck of arriving at Jigokudani Monkey Park on the very first snowy day of the season. It was a sight straight out of a postcard—snowflakes gently falling from the sky as Japanese macaques soaked in the steaming natural hot spring.
Why Snow Matters for the Monkeys
One of the key takeaways from our visit was that snow is crucial if you want to see the monkeys in the onsen. While many people assume the monkeys bathe all year round, the truth is that they only seek out the hot spring when it’s cold. During warmer months, they don’t feel the need to soak, and without snow, the classic “snow monkey in onsen” experience simply doesn’t happen.
Since we were lucky enough to witness the first snowfall of the season, the monkeys had already gathered in the pool, making it the perfect winter spectacle. If you’re planning a visit, it’s best to go during the peak winter months, between December and February, to ensure you see the monkeys in their famous onsen bath.
The Unexpected History Behind the Onsen-Loving Monkeys (Snow Monkey Onsen)
Jigokudani Monkey Park has become a well-known tourist attraction, but few people know how it all started. These monkeys didn’t always bathe in the onsen—in fact, they learned it from humans! Years ago, local macaques started sneaking into the outdoor baths of nearby ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), particularly at Korakukan Ryokan. The hotel guests were amused but the owners, realizing they couldn’t keep wild monkeys away, decided to create a designated onsen just for them. Over time, the behavior spread, and now it has become an iconic winter attraction in Japan.
Due to its popularity, the park can get crowded, especially during peak season. However, if you go early in the morning, you can avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
A Cozy Stay at a Traditional Ryokan
After our magical day watching the snow monkeys, we stayed at a traditional ryokan. It was our first time fully experiencing Japanese hospitality in such an authentic setting. We wore yukata (light cotton kimono), relaxed in the onsen, and enjoyed the minimalist beauty of sleeping on futons laid out on tatami mats. It was a completely different experience from a Western hotel, but one that made us feel deeply connected to Japanese culture.
One of the highlights of the trip was cooking raclette for my girlfriend for the first time. Raclette is her favorite Swiss dish, so bringing a taste of Switzerland to Japan was a special moment. The mix of warm, melted cheese and the cold winter atmosphere outside made for the perfect meal.
A Cute Encounter in Nagano
Before heading to the snow monkey park, we spent some time in Nagano, a charming city known for its history and winter sports. While exploring the city, we came across a Shiba Inu riding in a stroller. It was both adorable and surprising to see, but in Japan, it’s quite common for owners to pamper their pets this way. Seeing such a well-groomed, relaxed dog enjoying a ride in a stroller added to the already delightful atmosphere of Nagano.
The Mysterious Zenkoji Temple Experience
While in Nagano, we also visited Zenkoji Temple, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple is over 1,400 years old and is known for housing the first-ever Buddhist statue brought to Japan. However, the most unique part of our visit was walking through a pitch-black underground tunnel beneath the temple. This tunnel is meant to symbolize a journey to enlightenment, and it is said that if you can find and touch the “key to paradise” hidden along the walls, you will achieve spiritual awakening.
Walking through complete darkness, unable to see anything, was both eerie and thrilling. The sensation of relying solely on touch while navigating the narrow passage made it one of the most intense yet unforgettable moments of our trip.
Indulging in Matcha Delights
To wrap up our day in Nagano, we treated ourselves to some delicious Japanese desserts. We tried matcha tiramisu, a creamy and rich take on the classic Italian dessert, infused with the earthy bitterness of high-quality matcha. We also had matcha melon pan, a crispy, sweet bread with a green tea twist. Both were absolutely delicious and the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter day.
Final Thoughts
Our trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Nagano was filled with incredible experiences, from witnessing snow monkeys in the onsen to staying in a traditional ryokan, exploring Zenkoji Temple, and indulging in matcha sweets. It was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights. If you’re planning a winter trip to Japan, make sure to time your visit with the snowfall for the best snow monkey experience, and take the time to explore the beautiful and historic surroundings of Nagano.
This trip was truly unforgettable, and we can’t wait to return to Japan for more unique adventures!
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