Japanese Macaque
The Japanese macaque, also referred to as the snow monkey, is a species of primate indigenous to Japan. These monkeys are notable for their red faces and abbreviated tails, and they inhabit a range of environments across Japan, including forests, mountains, and hot spring areas, and are known for their resilience to cold weather. However, they have also been observed soaking in hot springs during winter in order to regulate their body temperature. They are highly social creatures, organized into groups led by dominant females, and feed on a diverse diet which comprises of fruits, seeds, insects, and small animals.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani is a park in is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The name Jigokudani means "Hell's Valley", which is named for the steam and boiling water that bubbles out of small crevices in its frozen ground, surrounded by steep cliffs and chilly forests. It’s also part of Jōshin'etsu-kōgen National Park, as the land was set aside as a refuge for these creatures, which are kept fed and maintained by a dedicated group of animal keepers. The unforgettable sight of these wild creatures bathing serenely within their natural habitat has drawn in tourists from all across the globe.
Directions: The optimal route to reach the park from Tokyo involves taking a Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano, a trip typically lasts between 80 to 100 minutes. A single one-way ticket priced at approximately ¥8,400 (~$60).
Upon arriving at Nagano Station, travelers can board an express bus directly to the park, and the journey itself usually takes no more than 45 minutes. A one-way bus ticket costs around ¥1,500. Disembarking at the Kanbayashi Onsen bus stop. Certain buses may stop at the Snow Monkey Park bus stop, shortening the walking distance, or you may wish to walk of approximately 30 to 40 minutes to reach the park.
Yunokawa Onsen
One of Hokkaido’s three most famous onsens resorts, Yunokawa is also home to the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden, where visitors can stroll through 3,000 exotic tropical plants made up of 300 different species. You can find unique flower and tree species from all around the world.
Hakodate also holds a popular attraction called Monkey Mountain. Although much smaller than Jigoukudani’s onsen, and a man-made enclosure holding about 100 monkeys, this is still a good spot for anyone who wants to see these adorable bathing in a naturally sourced hot spring. This enclosure houses 100 monkeys.
Hotels:
Hanabishi Hotel
This four-star hotel is located in Yunokawa's Hot Spring area in the city of Hakodate, which is known for its historic nature and seafood scene. The hotel offers 2 pairs of indoor onsens and outdoor onsens, as well as dining comprised of fresh and locally sourced seafood and ingredients. The gorgeous garden provides a welcoming atmosphere for your stay in the city.
Address: 1 Chome-16番18号 Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0932, Japan
Hotel Banso
This three-star hotel is situated within a stunning building and complex. This hotel has 116 rooms and is located close to many of Hakodate's other attractions and malls, including Hakodate Museum of Art (2.6 km) and FUN Museum (4.3 km), and the shore of Sea of Japan.
Address: 1 Chome-15-3 Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0932, Japan
Yunohama Hotel
This newly renovated four-star hotel is built facing the shoreline, so no matter room you take, you can relax while taking in magnificent views of the ocean shores. Yunohama provides both Western and traditional eastern style accommodations. With spacious onsen baths which are sourced locally.
Yunohama also offers fresh dining options including locally sourced seafood dishes, made into specialty dishes such as hakodate salt ramen and Genghis Khan teppanyaki. Steamed dishes that make use of the hot springs are also available, which you can top off with a bottle of wine and/or sake from Hokkaido.
Address: 1 Chome-2-30 Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0932, Japan