Home of the Snow Monkeys, historic hot spring resorts and Shiga Kogen, one of Japan’s largest ski resorts and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

In central Yamanouchi are the hot spring resorts of Yudanaka Onsen and Shibu Onsen, whose history dates back over 1300 years. Shibu Onsen in particular exudes a historic hot spring town atmosphere with narrow cobblestone streets and classic wooden inns. Yudanaka Onsen, adjacent to Yudanaka Station, is more lively thanks to its many shops and eateries. Both have neighborhood communal baths that ryokan guests can also access. Onsen-hopping while wearing a yukata robe is a favorite pastime here.

This is also the gateway to Jigokudani Wild Snow Monkey Park, home of the world-famous Snow Monkeys. The park can be reached by a 15-minute local bus and a pleasant 40-minute forest walk. The adorable macaques are worth the trek!

East of Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen is the world-class ski resort of Shiga Kogen. With elevations reaching 2307 meters high, Shiga Kogen was a worthy venue of alpine events for the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. The mountainous region is a popular destination for trekking and scenic drives.

To the north of Yudanaka and Shibu is another ski resort area, Kita-Shiga Kogen. Especially popular is the ropeway up Ryuoo Mountain to Sora Terrace and its panoramic views. You also have a high chance (62% on average) to see a sea of clouds below.

Map and Access

From Nagano Station, take the Nagano Dentetsu train line to the last stop, Yudanaka Station. Shibu Onsen, the Jigokudani Wild Snow Monkey Park trailhead, Shiga Kogen and the Ryuoo Ropeway can be reached from Yudanaka Station by local bus. There is also an express bus from Nagano Station to the trailhead and Shiga Kogen.

Where to Stay

Shibu Onsen

Boasts historic wooden inns lining narrow cobblestone lanes for a charming, classic ambiance. Kanaguya is especially noteworthy as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Guests of Shibu’s many inns have access to the nine communal baths — a delight for onsen fans.

Yudanaka Onsen

Has a mix of family-run small inns and contemporary resort-like ones with modern conveniences. There is a lively night scene with several newly opened restaurants and bars. And depending on the inn, there is access to Yudanaka’s communal onsens.

Shiga Kogen

Features a wide selection of ski-in / ski-out lodges spread out over the vast highlands. Luxury accommodations can be found in Okushiga and Yakebitai. At the base of Mt. Yokote, Shiga Kogen's highest elevation area, are numerous hot spring hotels such as Kumanoyu Hotel, known for its emerald green waters. In addition to accommodations, Shiga Kogen's central area, Ichinose, also has a selection of restaurants and bars.