Shiga Kogen’s Famous Snow Monkeys Will Steal Your Heart

Visit their pristine winter wonderland in the scenic mountains of Nagano

Watch wild Japanese macaques saunter out of the snowy forest and frolic in their natural habitat. This truly unique wildlife scene in Nagano Prefecture’s Shiga Kogen is sure to warm your heart on even the coldest winter’s day.

Famously known as snow monkeys, the Japanese macaques are the northernmost non-human primates in the world. At Jigokudani (meaning “Hell Valley”), located within the borders of Joshin'etsukogen National Park, monkeys young and old roam free along the mountainsides and the river. These magnificent animals are a captivating sight that can’t be experienced anywhere else in the world.

Later, take a 30-minute drive to the historic town of Obuse and visit the Hokusaikan Museum, home to a spectacular collection of works by the legendary Japanese woodblock artist Hokusai.

Jigokudani Yaen-koen