Snow Monkeys: Nature’s Zen Masters in Japan’s Onsens

Happy New Year! I hope your year is off to a warm and cozy start, no matter how chilly it might be where you are. 🥶

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like sinking into a warm bath. For me, soaking in a Japanese onsen (hot spring) is the ultimate indulgence on a cold day. But did you know this beloved tradition isn’t just for humans? Snow monkeys—yes, actual monkeys—are known to soak in hot springs too!

Meet the Snow Monkeys

Japanese macaques, often called snow monkeys, are native to Japan and famous for their thick, plush fur that helps them survive in the frigid winters of northern Japan. But their survival strategy doesn’t stop there—these clever primates have discovered the joy (and warmth) of bathing in hot springs, just like we do.

This behavior was first documented in the 1960s at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture, where a group of snow monkeys was observed soaking in the park’s natural hot springs to stave off the cold. Since then, these hot-tubbing monkeys have become a must-see for visitors to the region.

A Unique Winter Attraction

Today, Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to around 160 snow monkeys, and it offers a rare chance to watch these fascinating creatures up close. While the monkeys can be seen relaxing in the onsen year-round, the experience is particularly magical during the colder months, from late November to early April. Picture them lounging in steaming water, with snow falling gently around them—it’s a sight straight out of a winter wonderland.

The Zen of the Onsen

One of the most remarkable things about these monkeys is how calm and content they appear while soaking. They embody a peacefulness that seems almost human, their faces serene as they let the warmth of the water melt away the cold. Watching them, you can’t help but think they’ve mastered the art of relaxation.

Do you agree they look so zen sitting in the onsen under a snowy sky?

Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan or just dreaming of a cozy soak this winter, the snow monkeys of Jigokudani are a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, a warm bath really is the answer.

P.S. Have you ever visited Jigokudani Monkey Park or soaked in an onsen yourself? Let me know in the comments!