Complete Guide to Skiing in Nozawa Onsen, Japan

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Tradition. Culture. Charm. Authenticity. Gastronomy. Hot spring onsen. World-class skiing. Powder, powder, powder. The village of Nozawa Onsen (also known as Nozawaonsen-mura) on the main island of Honshu in Japan has it all.

A few years ago I went skiing in Japan for the first time at Niseko on the northern island of Hokkaido. At the time, most of my friends and family in the US didn’t even realize you could go skiing in Japan!

Word is now out, partially thanks to Niseko being added to the conglomeration of resorts on the popular Ikon Pass. A handful of my friends back home in the US have now also made the trek across the globe in search of the “Japow” at Niseko.

Don’t get me wrong – I had an amazing time in Niseko.

But since I’m always in search of lesser-known, hidden gems, I wanted to find a more traditional Japanese ski resort to visit during my stint living in Kyoto this year. What better resort to choose than Nozawa Onsen, which is known as the Kyoto of ski towns!

Nozawa Onsen is a traditional Japanese farming village dating back to the 8th century. It is located in the northern part of the Nagano Prefecture and has roughly 3,600 year-round residents. Those in search of the renowned Japow are sure to find it here, but part of the draw of Nozawa Onsen is that it is so much more than just a ski resort.

This quaint village is filled with traditional ryokan inns rather than big-name Western hotel chains. The town exudes culture and charm and is dotted with Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. It has a burgeoning dining scene, with close to 100 restaurants offering everything from traditional Japanese sushi, soba, and teppanyaki to Western offers like Italian restaurants and burgers.

However, it is possibly most well-known for the abundance of thermal hot spring onsen baths that can be found throughout the town. So, if you are planning a ski holiday in Japan and want to combine it with a quintessential Japanese cultural experience, then Nozawa Onsen is the answer.

How to Get to Nozawa Onsen

By Air

Most international travelers arrive in Japan via one of Tokyo’s two international airports, Narita or Haneda.

By Bus

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo’s international airports to Nozawa Onsen is by bus. The Nagano Snow Shuttle costs between ¥ 10,900 and ¥ 11,900 and takes about 6 hours. It departs 4 times daily from Narita Airport and 3 times daily from Haneda Airport (mid-Dec through mid-March).

By Train

It is possible to travel by train to Nozawa Onsen from Tokyo’s airports but requires a bit more effort.

From Narita Airport, you first need to take either the JR East Narita Express train to Tokyo Station (¥ 3,020–¥ 4,560; ~60 min) or the Keisei Skyliner express train to Ueno Station (¥ 2,470; ~40 min).

From Haneda Airport, you first need to take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsuchō Station and then the Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station (¥ 660; ~30 min).

Then, take the Hakutaka Express on the JR East Hokuriku-Shinkansen bullet train to Iiyama Station (¥ 8,780; ~110 min from Tokyo Station OR ¥ 8,570; ~105 min from Ueno Station).

From Iiyama Station, you then need to take the Nozawa Onsen Liner bus (¥ 600; ~20 min; mid-Dec through mid-Mar) or a taxi to Nozawa Onsen.

Pro-tip: Save yourself the hassle of navigating public transportation with loads of luggage by using a “takkyubin” luggage courier service to send your skis/luggage direct from the airport to your accommodation in Nozawa Onsen ahead of time!

By Car

Driving to Nozawa Onsen is the least desirable option for international travelers. First, you will need to obtain an international driver’s license ahead of your trip. Second, it will not save you much time or money and the roads can be treacherous in the winter. Third, you will not need a car once you arrive in Nozawa Onsen and parking can be difficult. Therefore, I recommend either the bus or train option instead.

How To Get Around Nozawa Onsen

The village of Nozawa Onsen is very compact and visitors can walk pretty much everywhere quite easily. Therefore, once you arrive, there is little need for a car. Most accommodations are within a 10-minute walk from one of the main ski areas, shops, and restaurants. If needed, there is also a town shuttle that circles the village and travels to and from Nagasaka Gondola.

When to Visit Nozawa Onsen

The best time to visit Nozawa Onsen for a ski holiday largely depends upon your personal preference. The ski season in Nozawa Onsen generally runs from late November through early May; however, the amount of snowfall during those times varies widely. 

If your priority is lots of snow and fresh powder, then visiting in the months of January and February is your best bet. However, if your priority is cost or lack of crowds, it would be better to visit early or late in the season, in December or March/April.

There are also a number of holidays and festivals that take place throughout the season which make for a fun and lively (albeit more crowded) experience:

• New Year’s: Takes place on December 31^st with night skiing until 11:30 PM and fireworks at midnight; free sake on the mountain on 1^st January.
• Winter Festival: Takes place in mid-Jan and again in mid-March; festivities include taiko drummers, free sake, and a rock/paper/scissors competition.
• Fire Festival: Takes place on January 15^th; bonfire and rite of passage ceremony to protect village men from their “unlucky” years.
• Winter Light Festival: Takes place in early March; celebrated with fireworks, torchlight skiing, and free sake.

History of Skiing in Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen is known as the birthplace of skiing in Japan. The sport was first introduced to Nozawa Onsen in 1912, and the village ski resort opened in 1924. In 1950, it also became the first place in Japan to install ski lifts. 

Skiing in the region really took off in the 1930s when Austrian Hannes Schneider, one of the founders of alpine skiing, moved to Nozawa Onsen, bringing his famed Arlberg skiing technique with him. Austrian influences can still be found throughout the village in the name and architecture of some buildings. In 1971, Nozawa Onsen was named as the “sister city” to the internationally-renowned St. Anton am Arlberg ski resort in Austria.

Nozawa Onsen was really put on the international ski map when it hosted the biathlon competition during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. This tiny village in the Japanese Alps has also produced more Winter Olympians than any other town in the entire country. It is home to 15 former Olympic athletes, including gold medalist Kono Takanori. 

The Nihon Ski Museum located at the base of the Hikage Gondola has displays showcasing the history of skiing in Japan and Nozawa Onsen specifically. It also has memorabilia from every Winter Olympics held in the modern era, and is well worth a visit

Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort

Mountain Stats

Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is located in the Northern Japan Alps in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan on the main island of Honshu. It is roughly 50 km from Nagano and 250 km from Tokyo. The ski season generally runs from late November through early May (though most trails close by mid-April). The resort covers nearly 300 hectares of land with 50 km of skiable terrain across Mt. Kenashi (which literally means “Mt. No Hair”). It has an elevation ranging from 565 m to 1,650 m (1085 m vertical drop).

The average snowfall is ~10 m per year. There are no snow-making facilities at Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort so the snow cover is 100% natural “Japow.” The powder here is slightly heavier than that found on the neighboring island of Hokkaido to the north due to its close proximity to the Sea of Japan. There are a total of 20 lifts, including 2 gondolas and 5 high-speed quads (2 with bubble enclosure) that can carry 30,000 skiers per hour! A new Nagasaka Gondola is planned for the 2020-2021 season.

Nozawa Onsen has a wide range of terrain ranging from groomed trails that are long and mellow to steep powder tree runs and moguls. Therefore it is suited for all levels of skiing, though beginners and expert skiers are likely to enjoy the terrain the most. Of the 36 trails, 40% are designated beginner, 30% intermediate, and 30% expert.

The Challenge course is the steepest run with a gradient of 39°. The most scenic run is the 4,500 m Skyline course. The longest run is 10,000 m long from the top of the Yamabiko Trail, down the Uenotaira and Paradise Trails, and through the Forest Trail. There is also a 2 km snow park and a halfpipe located in the Uenotaira area.

Off-piste skiing is not officially allowed at Nozawa Onsen but it is not heavily regulated. Skiers and riders will be financially responsible for any search and rescue efforts required so go out of bounds at your own risk! I recommend hiring a backcountry guide to truly take advantage of the Noz pow.

Pro-tip: Check online for special offers to save on lift ticket prices!

Mountain Services & Facilities

Ski Rentals

There are numerous ski rental shops throughout the village, but I recommend renting from Rental House St. Anton, which is located at the base of the Hikage Gondola. They have competitive prices and can store your equipment overnight, saving you the hassle of lugging it to and from your accommodation!

Ski Lessons

The ski school offers both group and private lessons for all ages and skill levels. English-speaking instructors are available.

Dining

There are roughly 30 on-mountain dining establishments at the base and across the mountain. Most serve traditional Japanese foods, such as ramen, but there are Western food options available as well!

Kids’ Activities

Daycare with English-speaking staff is available at the Yumin Day Nursery. Operating hours are from 9 AM–12 PM and 1 PM–4 PM so be sure to stop back during lunchtime! There is also a free play area for kids called the Naski Room, located on the 2^nd floor of the ski school building.

Both Yumin Day Nursery and the Naski Room are located in the Hikage Gondola area. There is a snowmobile trailer transport option available from the Nagasaka Gondola to the Hikage Gondola area where the ski school and daycare are located.

Kids will also love the resort’s official mascot, “Nasuki,” who resembles the village’s iconic nozawana pickled vegetable. Nasuki can be found roaming the mountain!

Other Activities at Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort

Night Skiing

If your legs aren’t tired after a full day of skiing the Noz powder, you can extend your time on the slopes and ski under the stars with the night skiing option at Nozawa Onsen! The slope under the Nagasaka Chair lift is lit up for “nighta” every Saturday from mid-December through late March (as well as a few other select holidays during the season). Night skiing is “night and day” from day skiing if you’ve never tried it!

Address | 7653 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 5 PM–8 PM (Saturdays from mid-Dec-late Mar + select holidays)
Cost | ¥ 1900 (included with season pass)
Google Maps

Cross-Country Skiing

One of Nozawa Onsen’s best-kept secrets (and I mean really well-kept secret) is its cross-country skiing. Nozawa Onsen was put on the international map when it hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics Nordic Biathlon competition (a combination of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting).

Despite this, however, there is surprisingly VERY little information online on how visitors themselves can cross-country ski in Nozawa Onsen. After some deep searching, I found that you can rent cross-country skis from Kanamori Sports in the center of the village. 

The 5 km-long Minambara cross-country trail that was used for the 1998 Winter Olympics Biathlon competition is still in operation and is located at the southern end of Nozawa Onsen Village. There is also a cross-country trail around Sutaka Lake above the Hikage Gondola. I recommend asking the staff at Kanamori Sports or at your accommodation for more information.

Kanamori Sports
Address | 9277-1 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 8 AM–9 PM 
Cost | ¥ 3500 per day
Website | Google Maps

Yû Road

Yû Road is a futuristic moving walkway, or travelator, that travels 300 m uphill. It is the primary way to access the Hikage Gondola ski area from Nozawa Onsen Village. Yû Road is located at the very top of the village, near the famous Ogama Cooking Onsen, and is free to access. It’s a nice little detour for some fun photo ops whether or not you plan to ski!

Address | 9309 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 8:30 AM–5 PM Daily
Cost | Free
Google Maps

Shin-yu Pair Lift

Shin-yu Pair Lift is the other primary way (in addition to Yû Road) to reach the Hikage Gondola ski area from Nozawa Onsen Village. The 2-seater lift is a hidden gem tucked away on the north side of the village near the Shin-yu Onsen. You can find it by following the adorable wooden signs dotted around town indicating the direction to the chairlift. Or you can use Google Maps!

It is free to access so, even if you don’t plan to ski, it is still worth taking a ride on this lift to enjoy the snowy forest scenery and views of the village below. It’s also the best way to access the Nihon Ski Museum (more on that below). Fair warning, however, that this old school lift does not have a safety bar so be prepared if you are afraid of heights!

Address | 8820 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 8:30 AM–4:30 PM Daily
Cost | Free
Google Maps

Snowshoeing

Non-skiers can still enjoy the beauty of Mt. Kenashi and views of the Japanese Alps through a guided snowshoeing tour of the mountain. Or skiers/riders can take a break from skiing the Noz pow to enjoy the scenery at a slower pace! It’s a great opportunity to “zen out” and immerse yourself in nature — it’s kind of like the Japanese practice of forest bathing, but in winter! During the guided snowshoe tour, participants learn about the history, flora, and fauna of the Nozawa area while taking in the breathtaking views below.

Address | 8005-2 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 8:30 AM–11:30 AM & 12:30 PM–3:30 PM (mid-Jan through mid-March)
Cost | ¥ 6000 per person (plus ¥ 1300 gondola ticket for some routes)
Website | Google Maps

Zip Skyride

Thrill-seekers looking for more adventure should check out the Zip Skyride for a bird’s-eye view of Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort. This 652 m-long zip line reaches a maximum speed of 70 km/hr with a vertical drop of 122 m from the top to bottom of Hikage Gondola. One of the longest zip lines in Japan!

Address | 8005-2 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 9:30 AM–4 PM Daily (late Nov-early May; closed Thursdays)
Cost | ¥ 2000 (1^st ride); ¥ 1400 (additional rides); discounts available with lift ticket purchase
Website | Google Maps

Snow Field Sightseeing Tour

Another way for non-skiers and skiers alike to experience the beauty of Mt. Kenashi and the Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is through the Snow Field Sightseeing Tour. This tour takes you through untouched areas of winter wonderland on a snowcat vehicle!

Address | 8366 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:00 PM, 1:45 PM, 2:30 PM (early Jan-late Mar; closed Thursdays)
Cost | ¥ 500 (includes 1 drink)
Website | Google Maps

Things To Do in Nozawa Onsen Village

Village Walking Tour

If you’ve read any of my other travel guides, you know that a walking tour is one of my favorite ways to get acquainted with a new place! A walking tour of Nozawa Onsen is perfect for orienting yourself to the narrow village streets while learning about the culture, history, and customs directly from a local.

Address | 8765 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 7:30 PM (Tues, Thurs, Sun)
Cost | Free (tips encouraged)
Website | Google Maps

Shu-in (Stamp Trail)

Once you have the lay of the land through the walking tour, a fun and unique activity to do is the Shu-in (Stamp Trail). The Stamp Trail is kind of like going on a scavenger hunt through the village! First, you’ll need to purchase a Shu-in-cho stamp booklet from either the Hot Spring Sightseeing Information Center or the Ryokan Society.

The goal is to visit all 20+ places in the booklet, which includes the 13 public onsen as well as shrines and other landmarks around the village. Each landmark has a stand outside with a unique engraving and a number corresponding to a page in the stamp booklet. When you visit a landmark, find the paper inside the booklet associated with it by number. Next, place both the green and white papers on the engraving on the stand. Then, use the attached wooden stick to rub over the paper, producing an imprint of the “stamp.” 

Once you collect at least 10 stamps, bring the filled booklet to the tourism association to receive a Nozawa Onsen bath towel as a gift. If you collect more than 20 stamps, you will receive a Japanese bandana as a gift. Although I’d argue that the completed booklet is a great souvenir in itself!

Related: Guide to Onsen-Hopping in Nozawa Onsen, Japan

Soto-Yu Public Onsen

One of the main draws of visiting Nozawa Onsen is the 13 public hot spring onsen, known as soto-yu, spread across the village. In fact, visitors have been coming to Nozawa Onsen for the onsen for far longer (since the Edo period!) than they have been coming for skiing (only since 1924). But soaking in an onsen is by far the best way to soothe sore muscles after a long day of skiing!

Each of the baths is fed directly from a local hot spring, and the mineral-rich water has different healing properties depending on the source. The onsens are simple and rustic and have a separate bath for each gender. They are cleaned and maintained by the local residents of each onsen district. So, while the 13 public onsen are free to enter, donations are appreciated (look for the donation box outside). There are no amenities provided, so make sure to bring your own soap and towel! Many of the hotels and ryokan in town will provide guests with a complimentary toiletry bag, as well as a yukata robe to wear to the onsen.

It is not uncommon to encounter local villagers using the onsen for their daily bath and a polite greeting is encouraged when you do. It’s important to be respectful and follow the guidelines of onsen–bathing, such as washing off beforehand, bathing naked (!), and making sure not to put your towel in the water. When in doubt, follow the lead of the locals!

Address | 9780-4 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 6AM–11PM (Dec-Mar); 5AM–11PM (Apr-Nov)
Cost | Free (Donations Appreciated)
Website | Google Maps

Related: Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Onsen Etiquette

Furusato no-yu Bath House

In addition to the 13 free public onsen in the village, there is also a privately-owned bathhouse called Furusato no-yu which you can visit for a fee. Furusato no-yu has the same Edo-era wooden exterior as the majority of the public onsen, but was actually just built in 2011 and has a more spacious, modern interior than the public onsen.

There are two baths inside heated to different temperatures varying from 41°C and 45°C (which is cooler than the public onsen if you find that water to be too scalding) and also an outside onsen (which you will not find at any of the public onsen). These baths have been awarded the prestigious “gensen kakenagashi” status, the highest onsen standard in Japan, meaning that the natural hot spring water flows continuously from its original source. Furusato no-yu also provides amenities such as soap, shampoo, and showers, unlike the public onsen.

Address | 8706 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 10 AM–8 AM (closed Thursdays)
Cost |  ¥ 500 (¥ 400 guest discount)
Website | Google Maps

Sparena Resort

You can find yet another hot spring option in Nozawa Onsen at the Sparena Resort. This privately-owned resort is housed in a very large, modern building located near the Nagasaka Gondola. There are indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, a sauna, a relaxation room, an on-site restaurant and convention center at the complex. Like Furusato no-yu, the outdoor bath at the Sparena Resort has been awarded gensen kakenagashi status for having water flowing continuously from its original source.

Unlike the 13 public onsen and Furusato no-yu, you are allowed to wear a swimsuit in these hot springs. So if you’re not keen on bathing in your birthday suit with the local villagers, then you should head to Sparena. But, really, bathing nude in the onsen is part of the quintessential Japanese experience so you should give it a try! The water temperatures are also lower compared to the public onsen so this is another good option for onsen newbies. You’re also able to rent a swimsuit, bath towel, and face towel if you did not bring your own.

Address | 6748 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 6:30 AM–8:30 PM (Dec-Mar); 1 PM–8:30 PM (hot spring)
Cost | ¥ 700 (¥ 600 with lift ticket)
Website | Google Maps

Ogama Cooking Onsen

When you see a picture of Nozawa Onsen Village online, 9 times out of 10 it is of the famous Ogama cooking onsen. This outdoor hot spring is located at the top of the village and consists of five different pools of steaming hot water reaching temperatures up to 90°C. Because of this, it is frequently used by locals as an outdoor kitchen to cook vegetables such as nozawana and corn, to boil eggs, and to soften the reeds used to make the local akebi handicrafts.

Access is restricted to locals due to the dangerously high temps but visitors can observe the villagers at work from just outside the fenced-off area. Make sure to stop by the nearby stores to sample some onsen-cooked eggs or ears of corn! 

Address | 8713 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 24 hours
Cost | Free
Website | Google Maps

Ashi-yu Foot Baths

One of my favorite things about Nozawa Onsen is the adorable foot baths, called ashi-yu, dotted around the village. These wooden troughs filled with hot spring water are open to the public and are great for soaking your tired feet after a day on the slopes. Simply kick off your shoes, roll up your pant legs, and sit back and relax your feet in the piping hot water!

The most popular and central foot bath in the village is the Akuto-yu foot bath, located directly across from the O-yu public onsen. It also has a little wooden cooking onsen box attached where you can cook some onsen eggs while you soak your feet. You’d likely never know it was there if you didn’t know where to look!

Akuto-yu Foot Bath
Address | 9286 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 24 hours
Cost | Free
Google Maps

Just around the corner from the Ogama cooking onsen and down the path lined with shops selling the onsen-cooked goodies, you will find the Yurari foot bath and cooking onsen. This foot bath is closed during the winter months but I lucked out and it opened up at the tail end of my trip in March because the weather had warmed and the snow had melted (not so lucky for ski conditions, however!). I was able to witness some locals cooking onsen eggs in the adjacent rows of wooden cooking onsen boxes while soaking my feet. This foot bath is situated on an overlook at the top of the village and is THE BEST place to watch the sunset!

Yurari Foot Bath and Cooking Onsen
Address | 9301-2 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 24 hours (Closed in Winter)
Cost | Free
Google Maps

Kenmei-ji Temple & Yuzawa Shrine

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There are various Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines located in Nozawa Onsen. The most famous is Kenmei-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple with intricately carved wooden eaves located high on a hill at the top of the village, near Yû Road. It is said to be the birthplace of the local leaf vegetable nozawana, after which Nozawa Onsen takes its name.

It is very common for Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to be located right next to each other in Japan and, in line with this tradition, you will find the Shinto Yuzawa Shrine located right next to Kenmei-ji Temple. Both of these landmarks are part of the Shu-in Stamp Trail, as are other smaller shrines located near Ogama cooking onsen and elsewhere in the village.

Dōsojin Fire Festival

If you’re in Nozawa Onsen in mid-January, you will be lucky enough to witness the Dōsojin Fire Festival (also known as the Dōsojin Matsuri), one of the 3 biggest fire festivals in Japan. This major cultural event is dedicated to the Shinto guardian deity Dōsojin who is believed to protect villagers from harm and is also the god of fertility, happy marriages, and healthy children.

The festival has been held every year since 1863 as a way to pray for a plentiful harvest, good health, and good fortune for the following year. The 3-day festival begins with the building of a tall wooden shrine called a shaden. A special ceremony is then held where a local Shinto priest from Kosuge Shrine endows the shaden with the spirit of Dōsojin.

Here is a great video of the main event of the fire festival!

The main event takes place on the 3rd evening on January 15th in an effort to bring fortune to men of the so-called “unlucky” ages of 25 and 42. The 42-year-old men sit atop the shrine and the 25-year-old men surround it at the base in order to protect the shaden from the other male villagers attempting to burn it down with torches from a bonfire. Once the “battle” is over, the shaden is ceremonially burned, along with decorated lanterns on poles that are made by families in an attempt to bring good health and fortune to their children.

Address | Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 7 PM–11 PM (January 15^th)
Cost | Free
Website | Google Maps

If you visit Nozawa Onsen at other times, you will still be able to spot Dōsojin figures all over the village. These tall figures are carved from matching cylindrical pieces of wood and painted to resemble a married couple. These are placed in the entryways of homes and shops as a symbol of fertility, happy marriages, and healthy children. 

Nihon Ski Museum

As mentioned above, the history of skiing in Nozawa Onsen is pretty much intertwined with the history of skiing in Japan itself. As the birthplace of skiing in Japan, and host of the biathlon competition in the 1998 Winter Olympics, it seems only fitting that there be a ski museum in Nozawa Onsen to document the milestones of the sport. 

The Nihon Ski Museum is a must-visit for ski enthusiasts (and non-skiers as well, to be fair!). It showcases ancient life in Japan’s snow country, the evolution of ski equipment and fashion, the history of skiing in Japan, and advancements in technology made at the Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort. There is also a room dedicated to its sister resort St. Anton am Arlberg in Austria. But perhaps the most interesting exhibit is the one showcasing memorabilia from every Winter Olympics held in the modern era. 

The Nihon Ski Museum is located just below the Isemiya slopes at the base of the Hikage Gondola so it’s easy to visit for a break during a day on the slopes. It can be accessed most easily via the free Shin-yu Pair Lift and also by the Yû Road moving walkway and it makes for a nice non-ski day activity as well.

Address | 8270 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 9 AM–4 PM (closed Thursdays)
Cost | ¥ 300 (¥ 240 guest discount)
Website | Google Maps

Oborozukiyo no Yakata Museum

If you are looking for another non-skiing or rainy day activity, you could check out the Oborozukiyo no Yakata Museum. The first floor of the museum is dedicated to Tatsuyuki Takano, a Japanese lyricist and literary scholar who lived in Nozawa Onsen year-round for the last 12 years of his life.

The second floor of the museum has a rotation of exhibits and a stained-glass window of the town’s namesake nozawana vegetable. The third floor of the museum houses a replica of the giant lanterns used in the annual Dōsojin Fire Festival. There is also a small cafe and a souvenir shop in the museum.

Address | 9549−2 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 9 AM–5 PM (Closed Mondays)
Cost | ¥ 300
Website | Google Maps

Traditional Workshops

There are a number of opportunities to participate in a Japanese cooking workshop where you could make soba noodles or oyaki steamed buns, for example. Or you could partake in a traditional craft-making experience such as Japanese paper-making, glass blowing, or weaving baskets from the local akebi vine, to name a few!

Cost | ¥ 3000–¥ 5000
Website

Day Trips from Nozawa Onsen

Jigokudani Monkey Park

No trip to Nozawa Onsen is complete without a visit to see the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park! The Japanese macaque monkeys roam free in the wild but congregate in and around the hot spring bath within the park to stay warm during the winter. There wasn’t much snow when I went so I didn’t get to see the quintessential “snow monkey,” but it was definitely worth going because the playful monkeys are just so adorable. Especially the babies!

Related: How to Visit the World-Famous Japanese Snow Monkeys

The park is located about 45 minutes from Nozawa Onsen. It is accessible by public bus during the winter months but I recommend booking a tour to streamline the trip. Once you arrive at the parking lot, you’ll need to walk about 25 minutes through a peaceful forest trail to reach the park itself (warning: the trail can often be icy or muddy so make sure you wear appropriate footwear!). 

Nozawa Onsen Kotsu Tour Office
Address | 9258-8 Yokochi, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 7 AM–11:30 PM Daily
Cost | ¥ 5500 per person (includes park entry ticket)
Website | Google Maps

Nagano City

If you’re craving a metropolitan atmosphere during your trip, head to Nagano City, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, and the closest city to Nozawa Onsen. The most popular attraction in the city is Zenkoji Temple, dubbed a National Treasure, which houses the first Buddhist statue brought to Japan in the 8^th century.

Address | 491 Naganomotoyoshichō, Nagano, 380-0851, Japan
Hours | Early AM–4 PM
Cost | Free (¥ 500 entry to inner sanctuary)
Website | Google Maps

Other notable attractions are the Olympic Museum which commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, as well as the Olympic Stadium which was the site of the opening and closing ceremonies. Nagano City is a 1-hour train ride from Nozawa Onsen and can be reached by car in 45 minutes.

Address | 195 Kitanagaike, Nagano, 381-0025, Japan
Hours | 10 AM–5 PM Daily
Cost | Free
Website | Google Maps

Obuse

If you’re looking for a dose of art and culture, head to the charming town of Obuse, a 45-minute drive from Nozawa Onsen. Obuse is where Katsushika Hokusai, a famous Japanese woodblock painter. He is best known for his ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa’ print, spent the later years of his life. A collection of his artwork is housed at the Hokusai Museum in the center of town. 

Address | 485 Obuse, Kamitakai District, Nagano 381-0201, Japan
Hours | 9 AM–5 PM Daily
Cost | ¥ 1000
Website | Google Maps

Other Nagano Ski Resorts

There is more than enough to occupy your time during a week-long stay in Nozawa Onsen. However, it is also in close proximity to a number of other ski resorts should you want to change things up for a day and try a new mountain. Hakuba Valley, Shiga Kogen, Madarao Kogen, and Myoko Kogen are all easily accessible from Nozawa Onsen via the inter-resort Nagano Snow Shuttle, which departs Nozawa Onsen 5 times a day.

Address | Nozawa Onsen Chuo Terminal, Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Hours | 7 AM, 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 1 PM, 4:15 PM (mid-Dec through mid-Mar)
Cost | ¥ 6,200–¥ 7,200
Website | Google Maps

What to Eat in Nozawa Onsen

In addition to the Japanese classics such as ramen, soba, and sushi, there are a few specialty foods specific to the Nozawa Onsen region that are worth seeking out during your visit:

Nozawana

Nozawana is a wild vegetable found in the mountains surrounding the village of Nozawa Onsen. This pickled vegetable is ubiquitously served as a starter or side dish at meals, and is used locally in all types of foods from steamed buns to gyoza. It’s quite common to see the villagers steaming nozawana in the Ogama cooking onsen!

Onsen Tamago

These are a must-try when visiting Nozawa Onsen! “Onsen eggs” are so-named because they are soft boiled in the cooking onsen dotted around the village. Cooking the eggs in the near-boiling 90°C water creates a hard yolk and soft egg white inside. You’ll see villagers cooking onsen eggs in the Ogama cooking onsen.

You can also try your hand at cooking onsen eggs yourself! Look for the wooden boxes located outside the Kamitera-yu, Kumanoteara-yu, Matsuba-no-yu, Juodo-no-yu public onsen. There are also places to cook eggs at the Yurari cooking onsen (closed in winter) and at the O-yu foot bath! 

Oyaki Steamed Buns

Oyaki are Japanese dumplings that are made from fermented buckwheat dough and filled with various ingredients such as nozawana, pork, or red bean paste. They are then cooked using steam from a hot spring. If you walk along Oyu Doru Street, the main shopping street in the village, you will see steaming wooden boxes outside various storefronts.

Sasa Dango

Sasa Dango are Japanese rice cake dumplings that are filled with red bean paste and then wrapped in bamboo leaves and cooked in onsen water. A popular place to find them is at the markets near Ogama cooking onsen where onsen tamago eggs and onsen-cooked ears of corn are sold!

Kaiseki

A kaiseki-style meal is not unique to the Nozawa Onsen area, but it is a great opportunity to try this Japanese culinary highlight that is traditionally served in ryokans. Kaiseki is a multi-course meal comprised of ~10 dishes that are beautifully presented in a way that highlights the taste, texture, and appearance of the local, seasonal ingredients.

Where to Eat in Nozawa Onsen

For being such a tiny village in the Japanese Alps, there is a tremendous selection of places to eat and cuisines on offer in Nozawa Onsen. Even so, restaurants tend to fill up during the crowded, high season so it is best to book ahead or avoid peak eating times. 

Here are some of my top recommendations to satisfy every craving:

Pro-tip: Make sure to bring plenty of Japanese yen with you to Nozawa Onsen as many shops and restaurants only take cash, and there are only two ATMs in town with limited hours of operation!

Where to Après in Nozawa Onsen

No quintessential ski town would be complete without a few great après ski spots to check out after a great day hitting the slopes. Nozawa Onsen does not disappoint in this department either.

Here are a few watering holes where you can quench your après ski thirst:

Where to Go Out in Nozawa Onsen

If you want a change of location after imbibing in a few drinks at my recommended après ski locations, check out some live music or karaoke at these late-night hot spots:

Where to Stay in Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen is a Japanese village first, ski town second. That means that you’re more likely to find a traditional ryokan with futon beds and tatami mat flooring than you are a Western chain hotel.

The hotels that do have Western-style rooms often have twin-sized beds rather than larger queen- or king-sized beds. However, in my experience the type and size of bed did not deter from its comfort! In fact, I think the beds I found were some of the most comfortable I have EVER slept in!

The fact that Nozawa Onsen is a traditional village that happens to have a ski resort in it also means that there are very few ski-in, ski-out accommodations. Most of the accommodations are in the village rather than on the mountain, though the majority are still within a 10-minute walk to the ski areas.

So you need to prioritize whether ski-in, ski-out or proximity to the shops and restaurants in the village is more important when choosing where to stay during your Nozawa Onsen ski holiday.

Luxury Accommodations

Residence Yasushi

Address | 8853-1, Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Cost | ~$200 USD
Website | Google Maps

If you are looking for luxury accommodations in Nozawa Onsen, look no further than Residence Yasushi. This newly renovated hotel is located in the western part of the village, next to the Shin-yu public onsen. It is just a 5-minute walk to both the Shin-yu Pair Lift for ski slope access and to the shops and restaurants in the center of the village. 

Each of the 20 en-suite rooms is tastefully decorated in a neutral color palette that seamlessly combines modernity with traditional Japanese touches. Each guest room affords a view to either the ski slopes of Mt. Kenashi or the Kitashinano forest.

Residence Yasushi has a welcoming common reading room with a wood-burning stove, as well as two private onsen baths that are fed 100% by the therapeutic Shin-yu thermal hot spring water. These baths have been awarded the prestigious “gensen kakenagashi” status, the highest onsen standard in Japan, meaning that the natural hot spring water flows continuously from its original source. A delicious, gourmet breakfast buffet made with fresh, local products is also included. With prior arrangement, you can also arrange for a guest chef to cook dinner in-house for your party.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Kawamotoya Ryokan

Address | 8955 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Cost | ~$150 USD
Website | Google Maps

If you want to fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture and stay in a traditional ryokan, Kawamotoya is a great choice. It is located in the western part of the village, directly next to the Kumanotearayu public onsen. It is a 10-minute walk to the Shin-yu Pair Lift for ski slope access and just a 5-minute walk to the shops and restaurants in the center of the village. 

The guest rooms (some en-suite) are decorated in traditional Japanese style with woven-straw tatami mat flooring, futon mat bedding, and a low table surrounded by floor-level seating. Guests are required to remove their shoes prior to entering the sleeping room, and utilize the traditional slippers provided.

The rooms at Kawamotoya have gorgeous views of either the mountain range across the Chikuma Valley to the south or the ski slopes of Mt. Kenashi to the north. If you don’t want to brave the outside elements to visit the Kumanotearayu public soto-yu onsen next door, you can take advantage of Kawamotoya’s in-house hot baths which are separated by gender. An “onsen kit” is provided as a gift at check-in and contains a small towel and other toiletry essentials for use before and after bathing in the onsen. A continental breakfast buffet with both Western and Japanese dishes is also included in your stay.

Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya

Address | 8858 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Cost | ~$150 USD
Website | Google Maps

The name says it all – the main draw of the Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya is the breathtaking view of either Mt. Kenashi or the Chikuma Valley from nearly every window! On top of the view, the location cannot be beaten. The hotel is located on the western edge of the village, near the Shin-yu public onsen. It is just a 5-minute walk to both the Shin-yu Pair Lift for access to the Hikage ski area, as well as to the village center for shopping and dining.

The rooms (some en-suite) at Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya are a mix of both Japanese-style with woven-straw tatami mat flooring and futon mat bedding or Western-style with twin-sized beds. So you can choose to partake in the more traditional ryokan atmosphere or keep to standard modern bedding. Keeping with Japanese tradition, guests are asked to remove their shoes in the lobby and use the slippers provided to move about the interior of the hotel. 

The common area at Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya includes a sake bar and fireside seating, complete with a view of the Chikuma Valley. The in-house onsens, separated by gender, offer the same stunning view while relaxing in the thermal hot spring water! An “onsen kit” is provided as a gift at check-in and contains a small towel and other toiletry essentials for use before and after bathing in the onsen. A traditional Japanese breakfast consisting of roasted fish, miso soup, rice, and other specialties is included with your stay. It is also possible to enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner with advance reservations.

Self-Cater Accommodations

Address Nozawa

Address | 9535 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Cost | ~$130 USD
Website | Google Maps

Location, location, location. Address Nozawa is in the heart of the Nozawa Onsen village with shops and restaurants literally around the corner. It is also just a 5-minute walk to the Yû Road moving walkway to access the Hikage ski area. 

The self-cater studio apartments contain a well-equipped kitchenette and dining area (with essential breakfast ingredients provided), Western-style twin beds, and en-suite bath. Each apartment is stylishly decorated in a neutral aesthetic interspersed with pops of a monochromatic theme color (orange, in my case).

Address Nozawa also has private in-house onsen baths, separated by gender. An “onsen kit” is provided as a gift at check-in and contains a small towel and other toiletry essentials for use before and after bathing in the onsen. There is also an entertainment/game room on the lower level of the building opposite the onsen.

On-Mountain Accommodations

Paradise Chalet

Address | 8736-145 Kitanoiri Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano 389-2502, Japan
Cost | ~$430 USD
Website | Google Maps

If proximity to the ski slopes is the question, then Paradise Chalet is the answer. This ski-in, ski-out log cabin is situated on the eponymous Paradise Trail in the center of Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort. The chalet can only be accessed via the Hikage Gondola or snowmobile! The 4-bedroom mountainside chalet which sleeps up to 10 guests has a spacious first-floor living area with plenty of seating in the living and dining area, as well as a full-service kitchen.

Guests will need to bring their own groceries, and it is required to pack a light backpack since you’ll need to walk or ski from the gondola to the cabin (larger suitcases can be left at Address Nozawa upon check-in). Alternatively, the staff at Paradise Chalet can transfer your luggage and stock the house with groceries for you, upon advanced notice, for an additional fee.

The main draw of staying at Paradise Chalet is obviously the location, with fresh tracks just outside the doorstep and views of the Japanese Alps from every window. Toboggans and snowshoes are available for guest use, as is the in-house onsen at Address Nozawa.

Airbnbs

I am a huge fan of staying in Airbnbs when I travel and there are plenty of great options to choose from in Nozawa Onsen:

What to Pack for a Nozawa Onsen Ski Holiday

Are you ready to plan your ski trip to Nozawa Onsen, Japan? Leave any questions below!

Thank you to Nozawa Hospitality for hosting me during my Nozawa Onsen, Japan ski holiday. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and bowls of ramen eaten are my own. For more information, please refer to my Disclosure Policy.

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