Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, named after the plumes of steam shooting out of the ground. Not as scary as it sounds, however, it is a truly memorable experience safe for all ages.
After visiting the Monkeys we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. This village was frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsens in town.
As you stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, some hundreds of years old, you might just get to see some more wild monkeys as they try to scavenge food!
Our professional, experienced, English-speaking staff can offer a bilingual service that ensures peace of mind and an unforgettable day tour to your already memorable holiday in Japan!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is not allowed to bring Luggage (No luggage space in a vehcile). Please use coin lockers or storage service at the tourist information center in Iiyama Station..
Pickup time at Iiyama Station may be delayed if the participants are not coming on time at the first pickup point, Nozawa Onsen.
Return time at Iiyama Station will be 17:10~17:30 (Purchasing a train ticket before 17:30 is not recommended, the return time is subject to change depending on delays/weather conditions)
Return time at Nozawa Onsen will be 17:30~18:00 (subject to change depending on delays/condition of day)
Total duration depart/return from Iiyama: 3 hrs 50 mins ~ 4 hrs 20 mins
Total duration depart/return from Nozawa Onsen: 4 hrs 30 mins ~ 5 hrs
Rain gears are needed to be arranged by paricipants.
In the event of damages (vomiting etc.) which require the vehicle to be out of service for a duration and are caused by your party, a fee of up to ¥30,000 may be incurred.
Please be aware that a medium level of fitness is required for about 2 km walk (one-way) to/from the park.
Most shops in Shibu Onsen are closed on Wednesdays
Tamamura Honten (the brewery) is closed on Sundays
The type of vehicle for the tour depends on the number of participants and can not be confirmed until the tour date.
Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking for 2km (30 mins) to/from the Monkey Park (Total 4 km / 1 hr)
Not recommended for families with infants or small children during winter, due to the added difficulty of the walk up to the monkey park. We also are unable to take strollers onto the bus. For customers who have small children, we recommend the Private Tour.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
WiFi on board
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guided walks in Shibu Onsen
Monkey Park Entry Tickets
Stop over at the spring water spot (Green season only)
Luggage Space
Lunch
Umbrella / Rainwear
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park
See the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Monkey Park, named for the plumes of steam rising from the ground, as if from hell itself! Despite the name, this is a fun and unforgettable trip for the whole family. The driver guide will provide information about all points of interest during the bus trip, and will provide further information within the park itself!
Sake Storehouse Art Museum - Gallery Tamamura Honten
[CLOSED on SUNDAY] Sake & Beer brewery. The ground floor is a shop area, 2nd floor is a traditional art gallery. During winter, you may freely visit it instead of the guided walk in Shibu Onsen.
Duration: 5 hours: Winter (Dec~Mar): Depart 13:20 / Return 17:10 (4 hours)
Green Season (Apr~Nov): Depart 13:20 / Return 17:40 (4.5 hours)
Starting point:
Iiyama Station, Japan, 389-2253 Nagano, Iiyama, 枡ノ浦
Duration: 5 hours: Winter (Dec~Mar): Depart 13:00 / Return 17:30 (4.5 hours)
Green Season (Apr~Nov): Depart 13:00 / Return 18:00 (5 hours)
Starting point:
Nozawa Onsen (Chuo Terminal), Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
39 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Bryanna G,
May 20, 2025
- Viator
Well worth it! Our guide, Tommy, was the best. He was very knowledgeable and provided great information throughout the tour. Most importantly, he was so easy to chat with. He was also funny, patient, and great with our toddler. Oh, and of course the highlight, the snow monkeys, were incredible to see. I underestimated how unique and awe inspiring seeing these monkeys in their hot spring valley would be. I would recommend this tour to everybody. It was also very easy to take the 10 minute Shinkansen from Nagano to the meeting point at Iiyama Station.
Jeffrey,
May 16, 2025
- Viator
I was disappointed that I had to take a train to the nearest city to Nagano. Both parties were staying in Nagano. I would have paid more for a pick up at Nagano Station.
Brook Z,
May 1, 2025
- Viator
Tommy our All right Was a wealth of information It is very personable, fun to be with went out of his way to show us many wonderful sites, as well as help us with our train tickets. Exceptional!
Valentyna G,
Apr 17, 2025
- Viator
Beautiful nature, daughter loved monkeys. It was worth the long walking. Be aware, it can be muddy. Boots can be rented but sizes might not be available. Better to bring your own shoe covers. It was nice to see the onsen town, to learn about traditions and history and try Japanese sweets.
debjonesy,
Apr 16, 2025
- Viator
Great experience up close with the snow monkeys. Very informative Aussie guide Tom who knew all the detail & showed us a great time. Excellent communication.😁
Operated by IXSM Travel