We (Charlotte) were slightly sceptical as to whether the snow monkeys above Yudanaka Onsen, a couple of hours from Nagano, were worth the detour. The answer is yes. A rather dated private train (with 180 degree views from the front carriage) winds through the suburbs, then countryside and vineyards outside Nagano (yes, Japan makes a lot of questionable wine), and eventually up into the Japanese Alps. An hour later you arrive at the village of Yudanaka. From the station you need to get a bus half an hour up to Shibu Onsen, and from there a half hour walk through the pine forests leads you to the snow monkeys of Jigokudani (literal translation is 'hell's valley' due to the hot and steamy ground).
Many disclaimers make it clear that the monkeys are not guaranteed to be there (especially in summer, for obvious reasons) however on the day we went there were hundreds. The macaques stay warm by choosing to bathe in the natural hot spring baths and river. Although still entirely wild, they are very accustomed to humans and go about their daily lives completely oblivious to your presence. To get that close to monkeys in such an amazing environment is an unmissable experience. Comments are closed.
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AuthorsRob & Charlie's travelling adventures on their long journey back to London after living in Hong Kong. Four continents, twelve countries, lots of experiences. Archives
July 2017
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Robert Ware & Charlotte Nunn |