Snow Monkey Town, Yudanaka Shibu Onsen
One spot that makes Nagano Prefecture so internationally renowned is the Snow Monkey Park. This park is found at the base of Shiga Kogen, yet its close proximity to and easy access from the ski resort is surprisingly unknown amongst many international visitors. Visiting the park from other areas within Nagano Prefecture, such as Hakuba or Nozawa Onsen, would make for a full day’s trip, but it’s only a quick bus ride from Shiga Kogen.
I also want to bring your attention to the fact that the famous hot-spring town— Yudanaka Shibu Onsen, is situated right next door to the Snow Monkey Park. Yudanaka Shibu Onsen is known by tourists from overseas as a hot-spring resort area with a rich history and unique features. In recent times, this town has started to gain popularity as the perfect base location for trips to Shiga Kogen. The hot-spring waters are filled with various minerals while the relaxing and calming properties are absolutely perfect for refreshing the mind and body. As you take a stroll around town and browse the handmade crafts and local food shops lining the streets, you will find yourself immersed in the unique hot-spring town atmosphere. If hot springs are your cup of tea, then go hot-spring hopping to visit the nine public baths in the town as part of one of the activities unique to a town draped in hot-spring culture.
Delve deeper into the Yudanaka Shibu Onsen area to discover “Chokkun,” an izakaya that has garnered cult-like popularity. The chef here dishes out whatever they feel like on the day at this highly unique establishment which has no set menu. I can’t recommend this area enough with the number of popular shops and restaurants growing as time goes by. As for accommodation, you can’t go wrong with the renowned “Ryokan Biyu no Yado” on your first trip here. Put that right at the top of your list for when you make the trip over to Yudanaka Shibu Onsen.
