Soak with Snow Monkeys in Japan

Posted by Julia on Sep 10, 2012 in Travel

Jigokudani Yaen-Koen 2008-01-12 059
(photo credit: Flicker Wajimacallit)

Snow monkeys, also known as Japanese macaques, really know how to live. Unlike their primate counterparts, these little mountain dwellers spend their afternoons relaxing in bubbling hot tubs. No other primate, with the exception of humans, lives in a colder climate, so they deserve a good steam. Tourists can spot these endangered bathing monkeys at the Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park, in the heart of Japan’s hot springs country. Amazingly human-like, snow monkeys can make more than 30 vocalizations and a wide range of facial expressions. They are a popular tourist attractions among foreigners and among the Japanese, who see the macaques as a symbol of success and good fortune.

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  • naim

    Yes, the monkeys are generally harmless (unless provoked, I guess). They are used to humans around them -- pls see our story on them here (Dec 2011 visit):
    http://m.naim.my/the-snow-monk...

  • Australia visa Made Easy

    I've heard of this snow monkeys in Japan. One thing I want to know if they are harmless. Are they?

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