"Macaque Family" Photo Prints

Red Faced Snow Monkey Photos

 In the heart of Japan's enchanting Jigokudani Valley lies a mystical world where red-faced snow monkeys frolic amidst swirling snowflakes. These endearing creatures, known as Japanese macaques, possess a captivating tale of adaptation and resilience. With their crimson visages, the snow monkeys endure the bitter winter cold by immersing themselves in natural hot springs, a behavior unique to their kind. As the steam rises and mingles with the icy air, these intelligent primates find solace, indulging in therapeutic soaks that have made them iconic. Witnessing their rosy faces amidst a snowy landscape is a harmonious blend of nature's artistry and wildlife's unwavering spirit.

"Macaque Family" was taken during my two week trip to Japan with my son. I promised him that when he turned 16, we could take a trip anywhere he wanted, just me and him. He picked Japan, and when I asked him why, he said the snow monkeys.

I set aside the entire day for us to spend in Snow Monkey Park, not knowing how long we'd want to stay there. As it turns out, the pool they bathe in is pretty small. And they generally hang out in the same small area while they're down out of the mountains. When we first got there, I figured we could spend maybe a couple hours here. But we ended up being there all morning. We left and hiked out for an hour to find a place to eat lunch. When we were done, I asked my son if he'd like to go back.

He said yes without hesitation. We went back and stayed all afternoon until the last possible moment when we could make it back to the bus on time. During the morning, the monkeys were more active, eating and feeding, yelling and fighting with each other. In the afternoon, they were far more laid back. They'd pair off and groom each other while basking in the sun.