The Snow Monkey Park
The Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano is a haven for wild Japanese macaques. The monkeys of Jigokudani Yaen-Koen are known the world over as the monkeys that soak in the hot springs, and the sight of them immersed in the springs in mid-winter has led to their becoming famous as “snow monkeys.”
Japanese macaques are very social animals, and they live in groups. In zoos and other artificial environments, it is difficult to see them behaving in a natural manner, so the opportunity to observe them in something close to their natural setting is highly prized. Jigokudani Yaen-Koen is one place where that is possible. In 1970, a photograph of the monkeys appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine, introducing them to readers outside Japan. At times, half of the tourists at Jigokudani are from other countries, and they can be seen taking photos of monkeys young and old relaxing in the hot springs.
Researchers and photographers alike have flocked to this site to see how humans and monkeys share the same spaces up close. There aren't any fences here. The monkeys can be seen in the hot springs all year round, but winter is definitely the most picturesque time of the year.
Japanese macaques are very social animals, and they live in groups. In zoos and other artificial environments, it is difficult to see them behaving in a natural manner, so the opportunity to observe them in something close to their natural setting is highly prized. Jigokudani Yaen-Koen is one place where that is possible. In 1970, a photograph of the monkeys appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine, introducing them to readers outside Japan. At times, half of the tourists at Jigokudani are from other countries, and they can be seen taking photos of monkeys young and old relaxing in the hot springs.
Researchers and photographers alike have flocked to this site to see how humans and monkeys share the same spaces up close. There aren't any fences here. The monkeys can be seen in the hot springs all year round, but winter is definitely the most picturesque time of the year.
