Japanese Macaques: Experts at Chilling

How long has it been since the last time you enjoyed an invigorating hot tub or a nice relaxing sauna steam? There’s only one right answer: “too long.” Few things are better when you need to unwind. It’s a waste of breath to tell that to these Japanese macaques, though. They already know the deal. Macaque troops in and around Jigokudani Monkey Park near Nagano have learned to avail themselves of the natural hot springs that occur in the preserve. The springs have long attracted tourists seeking a little R’n’R, and sometime in the early 1960’s the park’s furry residents started taking notice. Today, the monkeys are as much a part of the tourist attraction as the springs. It seems true what they say “monkey see, monkey chill.”