Enjoy the changing beauty of cherry blossoms, fall leaves, and snow monkeys all in the ironically nicknamed Hell’s Valley.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, sometimes referred to as the “Paradise of Monkeys,” is part of Nagano Prefecture’s Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park. Located at 850 meters above sea level and defined by steep gorges, volcanic activity, and unique fauna, it has quickly become one of the nation’s top tourist haunts. Though snow monkeys lolling in natural hot springs have helped the park build its global reputation, there’s more to it than red-faced primates and the constant puff of sulfur scented plumes of steam.

In the warmer months, you can still enjoy hiking through scenery that shifts with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to bright foliage in fall. It isn’t unusual to see monkeys gathering in groups in the wilderness. Visitors may also notice steam rising off the natural springs, especially as you pass by the traditional inn that rests in the valley on the way to the spring; evidence of the volcanic power lying just below the surface that gives the area the moniker “Hell’s Valley.”