What to know
Yamanouchi (山ノ内) is a town in northern Nagano Prefecture packed with attractions. The famous Jigokudani Monkey Park draws crowds to see wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs. But humans also love the water here—nearby Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen are built around the bathing culture.
Japan's largest ski resort, Shiga Kogen, lies within Yamanouchi. A single lift ticket gives skiers and snowboarders access to dozens of runs, some used during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Shiga Kogen and other parts of Yamanouchi belong to Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, offering hiking and outdoor activities when the snow melts.
