Our adventure to see the Japanese macaques at Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, Japan was truly unforgettable. Most travellers visit during the winter months when the landscape is blanketed in snow, creating picturesque scenes of the monkeys soaking in hot springs. However, we decided to go in April, a time when the monkeys are still active but the number of tourists is significantly lower. This timing allowed us to enjoy a more intimate and peaceful experience. Not to mention, it’s warmer and you’re coming up on Sakura!
Side note: We used the Shinkansen to travel to Nagano from Tokyo. It can be daunting booking for the first time (just like trying to figure out the JR pass). We always booked Shinkansen at the train station and at times the day of travel. BRING YOUR PASSPORTS! A couple times we needed them and others we didn’t. So be prepared! To save a bit of money, book unreserved seats. We never had an issue! Also, it’s okay to eat on the Shinkansen so grab yourself a bento box and beverage, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!
From Nagano, we recommend getting the Snow Monkey Pass. This pass includes one-time park entry and unlimited use of the Nagano Dentetsu line, Nagano Express Bus, and the Nagano Local Bus for two days. The cost is ¥4000 for adults and ¥2000 for kids, with children under 6 getting in for free. We purchased our pass from Hotel Metro which is connected to Nagano Station, where we stayed, and we highly recommend this accommodation for its convenience and excellent service.
Side note: The Snow Monkey Pass does not guarantee you a seat on the bus so get there early! We made this mistake the first day we tried to go and were not able to get on the bus.
If you choose not to get the pass, head to the Nagano Station and you can either take the Shiga Kogen express bus, take the Nagano Dentetsu train or you can hail a cab or drive.
Coming from Tokyo, take the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagano station and hop on the Nagaden Snow Monkey Express Bus! Or any of the other ways I mentioned above!
Either way, just get there! This was a highlight of our travels through Japan! And maybe next time we’ll go in the winter…
