Jigokudani Monkey Park

One of Japan's most unique wildlife experiences — wild Japanese macaques soaking in a steaming outdoor hot spring surrounded by snow. The monkeys bathe year-round, but winter (December–March) offers the most dramatic scenes with snow-covered landscapes. The park is reached via a 30-minute forest trail from the parking lot, which itself is a pleasant walk through cedar woods. Best visited in the morning when the monkeys are most active. Located in Yamanouchi, about 40 minutes by bus from Nagano Station.