Driving to Jigokudani Monkey Park in January

Hello everyone. Our family of 3 (Husband, Wife & 8 yo daughter) are planning to drive to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park in January. We'll be staying in Nagano and can see that it is about an hour drive.

Where is the best place to park and is there anything else around the area that is a must visit? Thank you

I remember there is a big parking lot in Shibu onsen from where you can catch a bus to the park entrance. However parking at one of the entrances is also possible.

Shibu onsen itself is a nice onsen village to stroll around and there are a few options for having an onsen bath.

If you want to spend some time in the snow going to Shiga kogen skiing area is also a possibility. Or Ryuou ski park.

If you are more into art/culture Obuse and their Hokusai museum and the temple with a ceiling painting is an other good option.