VISIT KANAZAWA, JAPAN - Official Travel Guide

Visit the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park

The Japanese macaques at Jigokudani Monkey Park are world‑famous as the only wild monkeys known to soak in hot springs. This rare natural spectacle draws many international visitors. Come experience this “monkey paradise” and enjoy the winter scenery.

About Jigokudani Monkey Park

• The macaques live in a near‑natural environment with no barriers between visitors and the animals.

• Located at an elevation of about 850 meters, winter temperatures can dip below –10 °C. To cope with the cold, macaques have learned to bathe in the natural hot springs.

• A 1970 cover feature in LIFE magazine showing the monkeys in the onsen launched international fame.

• Please note: These are wild animals—on warmer days, the monkeys may not bathe in the hot springs.

【Notes】

• ・From the bus parking area, it’s a 2 km uphill walk (approx. 40 minutes one way) on a gentle mountain path.

• ・Some sections may be icy and very slippery—winter boots or snow boots, and light ice cleats (crampons) are strongly recommended.
• ・During crowded seasons, you may need to wait in line for park entry. There is no priority entry system.
• ・For foreign language support, we provide “PokeTalk” translation devices.

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• 【Schecule】

  • 07:20 Assemble at Kanazawa Station West Exit (group bus departure)

  • 10:50‑11:50 Lunch at “Kuri Okowa” chestnut rice at Obuse/Sakurai Kanseidō Hokusai-tei

  • 12:30‑14:50 Observe wild snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park (free time for strolling)

  • Approx. 18:50 Return and arrival at Kanazawa Station West Exit

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  Schedule may change due to traffic or weather conditions.

【Visitor Guidelines: Safety and Respect】

For safe and enjoyable observation of the macaques:

• Do not show or feed food to the monkeys.

• Do not touch, startle, or stare into the monkeys’ eyes.

• Keep appropriate distance; observe from afar.

For respectful photography:

• Photos and videos are allowed; flash photography is permitted.

• Prohibited: Submerging cameras in the hot spring, using drones, selfie‑sticks, or other special equipment.

• Please maintain distance and avoid bringing camera lenses too close to the monkeys.
  What to Wear

  • Dress appropriately for winter weather and wear sturdy shoes.

  • Expect a 40‑minute uphill walk (about 2 km) from the bus parking lot.

  • Because icy patches can be very slippery, winter boots or snow boots and light crampons are advised.

  • Ensure you bring warm, layered clothing for safety and comfort.

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【Booking & Terms of Travel】

• Please read our terms and conditions before applying (available on our website).

• Meals: Breakfast ×, Lunch ○, Dinner ×

• Bus: Operated by Kinjo Kotsu or equivalent class

• Tour escort: Accompanying guide present

• Included in price: Round‑trip bus fare, lunch, park entrance fee, taxes, tour guide fee

• Booking: Minimum one person; tour operates with at least 20 participants, maximum 45

• Minimum age and unaccompanied minor policies apply—please inquire in advance if needed

• Cancellation fees (based on tour start date):

  • 10–8 days prior: 20% of tour cost

  • 7–2 days prior: 30%

  • Day before: 50%

  • Day of / no-show: 100%

• If the tour is canceled due to extremely bad weather or insufficient participants, full refunds will be issued

• Prices and conditions are based on July 1, 2025 as the reference date