New Delhi, Nov. 12 -- In the foothills of Japan's Northern Alps, people are chasing monkeys.

Wearing bright orange vests, the humans ring bells, blow whistles and strike rocks and trees with walking sticks as they weave through bamboo and brush. Using GPS trackers, they follow the monkeys' movements and radio teammates to close in when nearby. The aim is to herd the animals back into the mountains and away from farms and homes.

About 90 kilometers (55 miles) to the south, Jigokudani Monkey Park attracts more than 200,000 visitors a year - half of them from overseas - who come to see the same species soak in the hot springs.

Beloved by tourists, Japanese macaques are hated by many locals.

The monetary damage they cause is relatively mi...