Jigokudani (Hell Valley) is a canyon containing numerous hydrothermal features such as geysers and hot springs, most famously the outdoor hot pools where the snow monkeys bathe. Although the monkeys most often bathe in winter to escape the cold, they enjoy the pools in summer too, just not as often.

The bathing monkeys can be observed online at Shinshu.com.jp via a videocamera that is positioned permanently next to the main hot spring pool. These riverside pools were originally built for humans, but then the monkeys took over! Nearby Shiga Heights has excellent skiing and more hot springs including outdoor ones that are free of monkeys.

Written by  Mike Lyvers.

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