What to Explore?

The Jigokudani Yaen-koen (altitude 850 meters) is located in the Valley of Yokoyu River sourced from Shiga-Kogen of the Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park in northern part of Nagano prefecture.

It is buried in snow almost one third of the year. Even that kind of severe environment here is a paradise on earth for monkeys to live in.

The troops of wild Japanese macaque (they are popularly known as snow monkeys) inhabit here naturally through the ages.

Since the establishment of Jigokudani Yaen-koen in 1964, it has been a worldwide popular place for watching the bathing monkeys in a hot spring. 

*Text is from here: https://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/

10min drive from Fumoto Lodge

The famous shrine with the big cedar trees. A natural and spiritual energy spot. A trully magical place, it's even worth going in winter. We recommend wearing good shoes, like hiking shoes since the trail is unpaved and always snow-covered in winter.

30~40min from Fumoto Lodge

Obuse is a small town next to Nakano city, which is known for its chestnuts and old town. There is even a Hokusai Museum. You can enjoy the picturesque city while tasting a famous "Mont Blanc", thats how the japanese call their chestnuts mousse with meringue and whipped cream... 

15~20min drive from Fumoto Lodge

It's also worth visiting the big temple in Nagano city. 

40min drive from Fumoto Lodge