Picture this: fluffy snow drifting down around a steaming hot spring, and a group of reddish-faced monkeys relaxing in the warm water. In a quiet valley surrounded by mountains, these Japanese macaques—often called snow monkeys—enjoy the ultimate winter retreat.
Some drift lazily, some huddle together for warmth, some dive underwater to search for snacks, and others gently groom each other. Watching them, it’s hard not to feel a sense of cozy calm.
The Only Hot Spring Monkeys in the World
These snow monkeys live in one of the coldest habitats for non-human primates, where winter temperatures often drop below zero and snow blankets the terrain. This region, besides its heavy snowfall and rugged environment, is rich in natural hot springs. That’s how these macaques became the only monkeys in the world to enjoy winter hot springs. Some can soak for hours, while a few fully grown females have been seen spending up to ten hours in the water—some even overnight. The sight of them relaxing in steaming water is both charming and fascinating.
How the Hot Spring Habit Began
People first noticed snow monkeys using hot springs when a young female stepped into an outdoor bath to retrieve a fallen snack. The soothing heat captivated her, and other monkeys soon followed. What started as a chance discovery grew into a regular habit. Today, a special hot spring has been built just for the monkeys. While natural hot springs can reach over 60°C—too hot for macaques—the managed pool keeps the water at a comfortable 40°C, allowing them to relax safely.
A Winter Spectacle for Visitors
The monkeys quickly became stars of the park, drawing tourists from around the world who come to see their relaxed and playful antics. While the area is open year-round, the best time to see monkeys enjoying the hot springs is during the coldest months. Some monkeys even amuse themselves with items visitors bring, like a smartphone, creating moments that go viral online.
Hot Springs Reduce Stress
At first, people thought the monkeys were just entertaining, but recent research shows there’s more to it. Like cats, monkeys usually avoid water, but winter cold is stressful. Studies analyzing stress hormone levels in female macaques found that soaking in hot springs reduces stress, especially during the coldest weeks. Pregnant mothers were observed soaking even more. Scientists concluded that, just like humans, snow monkeys benefit from the relaxing effects of warm baths.
Higher Status Means Longer Soaks
Japanese macaques have complex social structures. While one male often dominates, the group follows maternal lines: a mother’s status strongly affects her offspring. During winter, males tend to stay on the group’s edge, so researchers focused on females. Over time, a significant portion of mature females in the group regularly soaked in the hot springs.
Interestingly, the redness of their faces isn’t due to the water’s heat—it signals maturity and readiness to reproduce, with young monkeys showing pale faces. The intensity of the redness also reflects social rank: higher-status females get more access to the hot springs and soak longer. Hot springs help them save energy by reducing heat loss and alleviate stress from cold, making it a win-win. Even with many visitors watching daily, the monkeys show no signs of discomfort.
Winter Can Be This Relaxing Too
Watching snow monkeys enjoy their winter spa life reminds us of the simple joys of warmth, comfort, and relaxation. From soaking in hot springs to unwinding in the snow, these clever, social animals show us that even in harsh winters, it’s possible to find calm and pleasure. Next time you’re feeling the winter chill, think like a snow monkey: relax, find warmth, and savor the moment.
The Japanese Snow Monkeys Who Relax in Hot Springs | Japan's Most Pampered Spa Guests | 4K Film
Video by ENO TRAVEL
