Best Hotels for Jigokudani Monkey Park

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Witnessing the wild Japanese macaque of the Yokoyu River Valley is one of the great bucket list items for sightseeing in Japan. The macaque — or snow monkeys as they're more widely known — are the most northerly non-human primates in the world, inhabiting the cold and snowy mountains of what used to be called "Hell Valley" due to the steep cliffs and rising steam of the hot springs.

The snow monkeys fascinate zoologists and tourists alike for their propensity to bathe in the hot springs during winter, best seen between December and March. The best hotels for Jigokudani Monkey Park all have hot springs and are a short drive away. Some of these are chic twists on classic Japanese accomodation, others are more traditional, offering intimate adults-only getaways.

For a chic luxury ryokan

• Aburaya Tousen is a small luxury boutique hotel perfect for couples journeying to Jigokuani Monkey Park because the hotel offers free transportation. Near a railway station and framed by enchanting mountains, it's a stylish modern twist on traditional Japanese relaxation. There's a whole floor dedicated to hot spring baths, private dining rooms in the restaurant, karaoke, and elegant rooms with tatami-mat flooring and traditional futons.

For something more traditional

• Senjukaku is the hotel closest to Snow Monkey Park, just a 15-minute drive away. A more traditional ryokan, this elegant hotel offers an insight to Japanese culture; set amidst beautiful gardens with mountain views, and offering rooms with tatami flooring, low tables and seating cushions. The restaurant serves seasonal, authentic Japanese cuisine. There's an art gallery showcasing Japanese art, and of course, hot spring baths to unwind in after a day tracking the snow monkeys.

For a romantic getaway

• If you're looking for a romantic getaway near Snow Monkey Park, Fujiiso is the one to book. This adults-only mountain hideaway is only a 45-minute drive away and offers a communal hot spring bath and private onsens in the traditional suites. The peaceful, alpine landscape has inspired artists over the centuries and it's easy to see why: the hotel stands among trees in a quiet village on the mountain, best seen from the privacy of your balcony. Perfect for couples!

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all the best hotels in Nagano Prefecture
• Or the best hotels in Japan's national parks
• Alternatively, expand your search to see 10 of the Best Ryokans in Kyushu or the 11 Best Ryokans in Kyoto
• Or contact one of our Gurus for bespoke advice.