A couple of influencers showed on social media their trip to Nagano, Japan, where they visited Jigokudani Park, famous for its monkeys, which bathe in hot spring pools that humans are prohibited from entering.
The couple followed the park’s rules, but while exploring the area, they discovered that a few meters away there were hot springs intended for humans. Since they are outdoors, some monkeys also go in on their own whenever they want.
Without thinking too much about it, the couple decided to follow the facility’s rules and entered completely naked to bathe alongside several monkeys. And as if that were not incredible enough, while they enjoyed the bath, snow began to fall around them.
The scene was magical and became a unique moment of connection with nature. However, the video sparked controversy, especially among people who called it unhygienic, claiming there was a risk of skin irritation or bacterial infection. The most extreme blamed these practices as the origin of rare and dangerous diseases.
But the water in these hot springs comes directly from natural sources and is maintained through renewal and quality-control systems, such as filtration and disinfection when appropriate. In addition, Japanese public baths are subject to health regulations to keep the water in suitable condition.
However, the couple assured that this is completely legal and much more hygienic than bathing in many swimming pools.
What about you, would you get into the water knowing that a wild monkey could swim beside you at any moment?