Yudanaka Onsen — Gateway to Snow Monkeys

Yudanaka Onsen (湯田中温泉) is a traditional hot spring town serving as the gateway to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. The town has a 1,350-year history as a healing hot spring, with water rich in sulfur and iron. Unlike touristy Shibu Onsen next door, Yudanaka retains a quiet, working-town atmosphere with local bathhouses (sotoyu) used by residents and a few ryokan catering to visitors.

The town's architecture is traditional wooden buildings with steam vents rising from the streets. Several public bathhouses are open to visitors (¥200–500), and the water is notably hot (42–45°C) with a strong sulfur smell. Yudanaka serves as a practical base for visiting the snow monkeys — affordable accommodation, easy train access from Nagano, and authentic onsen culture without the crowds. The town is also the terminus of the Nagano Dentetsu Line, with a charming retro station building.