Humans are not the only creatures to take advantage of Japan’s "onsens" (hot springs).
Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, are regular patrons at Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, part of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park in the country’s northeastern Nagano Prefecture. Winter is, of course, the best time to see these primates taking a dip in the waters.
Clients should stay in the authentic Korakukan ryokan (Japanese-style inn), which is the accommodation nearest to where the monkeys bathe. Once there, travelers can take advantage of the ryokan’s own hot springs before visiting the monkeys just a short walk up the valley.
