Nozawa Onsen

Nozawa Onsen is a historic ski resort located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture and offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern skiing experiences. The ski resort is close to the charming village of Nozawa Onsen, which is known for its natural hot springs. Built on a site where hot springs were discovered as early as the 700s, the village is characterized by an authentic atmosphere with cobbled streets and traditional ryokans and shops.

Skiing in Nozawa Onsen has a long history; Skiing was introduced here as early as 1912 by an Austrian skiing pioneer, and the area is considered one of Japan's birthplaces of skiing. Today, Nozawa Onsen is one of Japan's most popular ski resorts for international visitors, thanks to its diverse terrain offerings, abundant snowfall, family-friendly facilities, and friendly treatment of English-speaking guests.

The Nozawa Onsen ski area, which officially celebrates its 100th anniversary in the 2023-2024 season, is located at Kenashi-yama, which means "Bald Mountain". Despite its name, the mountain is far from clear-cut – the ski area extends below the tree line and offers a wide selection of slopes, including both wide, well-maintained trails and challenging Mughal runs. With 19 ski lifts, including two cable cars, and a total of 31,1 miles of slopes, there is something for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The vertical drop is an impressive 1,278,9 feet, giving both beginners and advanced skiers the opportunity to enjoy long and varied descents.

Nozawa Onsen is known for its generous snow depth, with regular heavy snowfalls and a vertical drop of over 1,0 feet. Here, the snow is left untouched in some places for those seeking off-piste adventure, while organized backcountry tours are popular with experienced skiers. For those who prefer safer options, there is also a selection of slopes that are perfectly adapted for both beginners and advanced skiers.

In addition to skiing, Nozawa Onsen offers a range of other activities throughout the year. During the summer, parts of the area are opened for mountain biking and hiking, and flower arrangements adorn several of the ski trails. A particular attraction is the Japanese Ski Museum at the Isemiya course, which displays a fascinating collection of historical skis and documents the history of skiing in Japan and Nozawa.

An annual highlight is the Dosojin Fire Festival, which is held on January 15 and has its roots dating back to 1863. The festival is a vibrant part of the local culture and offers a unique insight into Japanese tradition.

With its excellent snowfall, traditional atmosphere, and extensive ski facilities, Nozawa Onsen is a destination that attracts ski lovers and culture-buffs alike, offering an unforgettable experience both on and off the slopes.