Key Facts
• Over 26,839 monkey-related incidents reported in Yugawara Town over the past 3 years.
• Monkeys invade homes, steal food, and damage property, including Wi-Fi cables.
• Sightings include train stations, parking lots, and residential balconies.
• A hotel reported monkeys breaking insect screens and stealing snacks.
• Monkeys have attacked tourists in open-air baths and blocked school routes.
• Residents report groups of 10–20 monkeys causing fear and disruption.
• Local government plans to capture the entire troop to mitigate damage.
• Authorities advise avoiding eye contact and maintaining distance when encountering monkeys.
Summary
Yugawara Town, a renowned hot spring destination in Japan, faces escalating issues with aggressive Japanese macaques. Over the past three years, 26,839 incidents have been reported, including home invasions, food theft, and property damage. Monkeys have been spotted in public areas like train stations and parking lots, raising concerns about safety and tourism. Hotels report monkeys breaking in, stealing snacks, and even attacking guests in open-air baths. Residents describe large groups of monkeys causing fear and blocking daily activities, such as school commutes. The local government is coordinating with the prefecture to capture the entire troop. Authorities urge caution, advising against eye contact or aggressive actions when encountering monkeys.
