Jigokudani Monkey Park- Nagano, Japan

I have a soft spot for Monkeys. Not sure why-- I find them really adorable and
funny.

These following "Snow Monkeys" are a special breed, and are the
only ones that bathe in hotsprings.   Most people flock to see them during winter, but prepare to fight the crowds.

Entrance to the Park.  About 25 mins walk total, but faster once you see the warning signs for "beware of poisonous snakes"---this is not only a "what if" but more as a "when" as one got very close to me really soon.

---

Almost there!

Baby Monkey!!!

This little guy was pulling my shoelace. ^0^

These Monkeys are used to having people oh-ing and ah-ing all over them year-round and won't care if you tail them like a crazy Paparazzi.

---

Playing hide-and-seek inside the Park camera.

On this very first visit to this Monkey Park, I learned these valuable lessons:

1. Do not stare at the Monkey at eye-level 
(my significant other found this out the hard way). 

2. Watch out for poisonous snakes on the hike up. On average it takes about 25 mins, but I think after seeing this sign, we made the trip in about 15 mins.

3. Bring an umbrella with you even if is sunny out.
A down pour can happen at any moment without notice.
 
The commute and up-hill hike will be worth your while 
once you see the hundreds of Monkeys roaming free before your eyes.

Approximate travel time via trains are:

- 3 hours from central Tokyo              | ~ $100 usd   one-way  

- 6+ hours from Osaka                        | ~ $160 usd   one-way  

More information on the Monkey Park can be found through the Park's English page.

Here is a short footage of 2 Baby Monkeys.