Yamanouichi

From Nagano, took a train to Yudanaka. And in Yudanaka, took a taxi to Yamanouichi.

What’s all the hype about? The Jigokudani snow monkeys of course. These primates are endemic to Japan. You won’t find them anywhere else in the world. I’m sure you have seen pictures of monkeys relaxing in hot springs. This is where you will find them. Of course, you have to earn it. So you have to hike up a 1.6km trail to where these creatures live. Be careful as this snow covered trail is slippery. I fell countless times. With its snow covered branches and powdered floor, this trail is perfect for taking photographs.

By the time I got back down the trail it was getting dark and I was getting hungry. Soba noodles were for dinner. Soba is buckwheat, and buckwheat is what the Nagano prefecture is known for. With its cold temperatures, rice doesn’t grow very well here, so locals turn to this as their staple food. This soupy sensation was exactly what I needed to end my frozen, fun-filled adventure.Read more