GETTING THERE
Getting to the Snow Monkeys
Every route to Jigokudani, from Tokyo, Nagano, Osaka and Kyoto.
All transport guides
Getting There
How to Get to Snow Monkey Park from Tokyo
Getting from Tokyo to the snow monkeys is simpler than it looks — a few easy train-and-bus hops, no car, tour, or booking needed.
Getting There
How to Get to Snow Monkey Park from Nagano
From Nagano it's an easy morning out — take the direct express bus or the scenic Nagaden train, then a short forest walk. No reservations needed.
Getting There
Can You Visit the Snow Monkeys Without a Tour?
Yes — the whole route is signposted in English, and nothing on it requires a reservation.
Getting There
How to Get to Snow Monkey Park from Osaka
About four hours to Nagano, then another ninety minutes to the trailhead. The route is simple and needs no booking beyond a shinkansen seat, but the distance is what makes an overnight worth it.
Getting There
How to Get to Snow Monkey Park from Kyoto
About three and a half hours to Nagano, half an hour shorter than from Osaka. It works far better as the connection between two halves of a trip than as a there-and-back detour.
Getting There
How to Get to Snow Monkey Park
Every route to the snow monkeys ends the same way. Only the starting point changes, and this is the full picture from each one.
FAQ
Common Transport Questions
Everything you need to plan your journey to Snow Monkey Park.
How long does it take from Tokyo to Snow Monkey Park?
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass?
The Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano is covered by the JR Pass. The Nagano Dentetsu from Nagano to Yudanaka is not — private line, approximately ¥1,200 each way.
What's the closest station to the park?
