When we were first discussing what we wanted to do in Japan, Andy had only two requests: driving around the alps (check!) and seeing the snow monkeys. So we booked a night in a traditional ryokan (schlepping it, I know!), in the most adorable onsen town, and made plans for the 1.6 km ice-walk to the monkeys.
To get to the monkey’s favourite hot pool, we had to walk along this very slippery path
As I stood on the bridge looking out at the monkeys in the snow, this wee one climbed up next to me!
The monkeys weren’t bothered by the crowds of people
Most of them sat next to the hot pool
Finally, one of the monkeys cautiously ventured into the steamy water
Many of the baby monkeys followed mum’s lead
The setting was picturesque, high in the mountains, next to a rushing river
The water is so hot, the monkey’s faces turn red
Their fur looks so lush
It’s never a bad time for a spot of grooming
They may look cute, but they’ll take off with your food!
About the size of a toddler, these fully grown monkeys were so much smaller than I imagined
