Monkey Town—just as captivating in the “Green Season”
Yamanouchi Town, famous for the Shiga Kogen area, offers a wealth of attractions beyond winter ski season.
It’s no exaggeration to say that in the snow season, one of Japan’s most well-known attractions is the Jigokudani now Monkey Park in Jigokudani Onsen, located at the foot of the popular Shiga Kogen ski resort. This globally famous tourist spot attracts many visitors who come to witness Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs up close during winter. However, from spring to autumn, it offers opportunities to see the adorable monkeys playing energetically in the mountains, making it a place to connect with Japan’s nature and wildlife.
Located in the town of Yamanouchi, Shiga Kogen offers more than just winter skiing. Yamanouchi is known for its numerous hot spring areas, especially the Yudanaka & Shibu Onsen Resort area, which is beloved by Japanese travellers for its historic and charming hot spring streets. Traditional inns line the stonepaved roads, and public baths at Shibu Onsen offer an experience reminiscent of nostalgic Japanese scenery. With a long history as a therapeutic hot spring town, Yudanaka Onsen invites visitors to stroll through the old-fashioned hot spring streets, an experience in itself. In autumn, the mountains are covered in vibrant autumn foliage, allowing for a luxurious time soaking in hot springs while admiring the oranges and reds of the season. Take advantage of guided treks for a more premium experience during the green to autumn period. Shiga Kogen offers well-maintained hiking trails within the verdant and autumn-coloured mountains suitable for all skills levels so visitors can get up-close with Japan’s seasonal nature. Encounters with unique alpine plants and wildlife add to the experience. Shiga Kogen’s ponds also offer fun activities such as stand-up paddle boarding and canyoning.
With opportunities to interact with Jigokudani’s monkeys, experience the historical ambiance of Yudanaka & Shibu Onsen Resort, and enjoy seasonal activities year-round, Yamanouchi provides a variety of experiences for visitors. Accessible from Tokyo, it’s a popular destination for day trips or weekend gateways. By Shinkansen, it takes about an hour and a half to reach Nagano Station, from where buses and local trains provide smooth access to Yamanouchi.
It’s a place everyone should visit at least once.
