200+ of them inhabit the Jigokudani area "Hell's Valley", which is snow-covered for one-third of the year. The area contains many hot springs (onsens) which the monkeys enjoy soaking in.
From the look on their faces, they must really be enjoying the onsen baths. All chillin' in there.
One of our favouritest places in the world is Niseko in Hokkaido, Japan.
Here, the powder never stops. It is said that the powder is blown over from Siberia. Soft and fluffy powder! Easy on the butt as well. Better than icy slopes =)
We spent a week in Niseko on our last trip. It was snowing non-stop every day of the week. And this was in March!
Can't wait to get back on the slopes there! Trying to organise one this March.. Hope that works out! =)
Check out Shaun and what he has to say about the Siberian snow in ニセコ (Niseko) : )