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Overview
Nozawa Onsen offers a unique Japanese cultural experience with a compact village that sits at the bottom of the ski resort, traditional architecture abounds with beautiful Japanese ryokans that date back 100’s of years, traditional onsens that are free to use are dotted throughout the town as well as lively restaurants, izzakayas and some great bars all make this an exciting and true Japanese resort experience.
The Ski resort area is over 100 years old making it one of the oldest in Japan and stretches from the peak of Mount Kenashi which is 1,650m high down to to the top of the village. overall the vertical drop is 1,085m and the Nozawa resort area covers a total of 297 hectares. The resort receives over 10m of quality snow every year and has 22 chair lifts and 2 gondolas to help you access the 50km+ of ski trails and 36 ski runs which offer a good variety of ski slopes well suited to all skill levels from advance to beginners.There are some good within resort off piste ski areas and tree skiing as well as some back country options with guides that can be organised for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
The compact village is easy to walk around as the streets are all heated by the steaming onsen water source, ski lifts for most accommodation is a short 5 min to 10 min walk or a trip on the Yu moving walk way to the slopes, the village has many restaurants, bars, souvenir and craft shops there is also a couple of convenience shops as well as their own craft brewery which has won National and International awards; for beer lovers a must to visit.
There is a decent variety of accommodation, although predominantly Japanese style and to get the best cultural experience we recommend staying in a traditional Ryokan, most just offer segregated onsens with rooms that offer tatami flooring futon bedding and toilet and vanity facilitates only however some higher end Ryokans also offer rooms with beds and their own bathrooms.
On 15th of January each year the Nozawa Onsen fire festival takes place, it is one of the most famous festival in Japan. If you are coming to Nozawa Onsen be sure to enjoy this exciting cultural event.
Featured Accommodations
Adventures & Attractions
Our recommended resort highlights.
Nozawa Public Onsen
Nozawa Onsen has 30 mineral springs and 13 public baths. The village also offers memorable private onsens for a unique experience.
Dosojin Fire Festival
Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival on Jan 15 is a major cultural event for good fortune, health, and skiing. It’s one of Japan’s top fire festivals.
Snow Monkey
The famous wild monkey park in Yamanouchi, Nagano, is reachable by daily shuttle from Akakura Onsen. A 20-30 min forest walk leads to the park.
Shibu Onsen
The historic village, once frequented by samurai and poets, offers peace and charm. Bathing in all its onsens is said to bring good fortune.
Japan Ski Museum
Explore the history of skiing with global collections, pictures, artifacts, and films showcasing the evolution of snow sports.
Nozawa Onsen Snow Shoeing
Snowshoeing in Nozawa Onsen offers a serene stroll through snowy forests, a frozen lake, and Nagoya Alps views.
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort
Madarao ski resort boasts varied terrain, including tree runs, open slopes and fresh powder. Perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Myoko Kogen Ski Resort
Myoko offers deep powder, varied terrain and a mix of runs for all levels. Enjoy stunning views, tree skiing and a vibrant apres-ski scene.
Shiga Kogen Ski Resort
Shiga Kogen is Japan's largest ski aea, offering diverse terrain, long runs and pristine powder. Perfect for all levels with stunning views.
- How to Reach Nozawa Onsen
- Resorts & City Guide
By Air
Nozawa Onsen is easily accessible from Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airports, as well as Nagoya’s Centrair and Osaka’s Kansai Airports.
By Train
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Iiyama Station from Tokyo or Kanazawa, then transfer to the Nozawa shuttle bus, which takes about 30 minutes.
By Car
Hiring a car in Nagano is a popular option, with a short 1-hour drive to Nozawa Onsen from the Shinkansen station.
By Bus
Buses, including the Nagano Snow Shuttle, connect Nozawa from Iiyama, Nagano, Tokyo, and Osaka, with direct options from Narita and Haneda.
By Private Transfer
Private transfers are available from Nagano and directly from Narita or Haneda Airports to Nozawa Onsen for added convenience.
Below are some PDF tourist maps to help you navigate and enjoy your time in Nozawa Onsen.
