Nozawa Onsen (Natural hot spring )village – A Hidden Gem in Japan with 13 free public onsens and world class snow resort!
Hi I’m Nobu, I like traveling overseas and in Japan, visited 28 countries!
I’m a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of English for 12 years.
For the people who are interested in and planning trip to Japan ,
I show you hidden local information which you have never seen and heard of through books and ordinary site!
You will find unexpected fun through my articles!
Nozawa Onsen is one of my favorite onsen villages!
I’m glad I can share this village for you!!
The Village Atmosphere
• Traditional Hot Spring Village: Nozawa Onsen is a charming mountain village in Nagano Prefecture with more than 1,000 years of history as a hot spring destination.
• Unique Streetscape: Narrow lanes, wooden inns (ryokan), and steam rising from hot spring vents create a nostalgic, authentic Japanese atmosphere.
• Cultural Vibe: The village is small and walkable, with local shops, sake breweries, and restaurants serving hearty mountain food like “Nozawana pickles” and hot soba noodles.
Festivals
One of Japan’s most famous fire festivals, the Dosojin Fire Festival (January 15), is held here, attracting many visitors.
Winter Ski Paradise
• Top-Quality Snow:
It’s the location 1998 Nagano Olympic viaslon biathlon competitions.
Nozawa is blessed with some of the best powder snow in Japan, often exceeding 10 meters per season.
• Variety of Slopes:
With over 36 runs and a vertical drop of 1,085 meters, it offers slopes for beginners, families, and advanced skiers.
• International-Friendly:
The ski area is well-equipped with English signage, ski schools, and rental shops, making it comfortable for foreign visitors .
• Ski-In Village: After skiing, visitors can walk straight back into the hot spring town without needing transport.
The 13 Public Hot Spring Baths (Soto-yu)
• Community-Run:
The village has 13 public baths, maintained by local residents for centuries, and they are free to use (donations welcome).
• Authentic Experience:
Each bath has a different character – some are small and rustic, others spacious and modern.
All are filled directly with natural hot spring water.
• Cultural Etiquette:
Bathing is a traditional Japanese ritual.
Guests wash outside the bath before soaking, and swimsuits are not allowed.
• Healing Waters:
The water is known for relieving fatigue, improving circulation, and warming the body after a day.
Why Visit?
Nozawa Onsen offers the rare combination of a traditional Japanese village atmosphere, world-class skiing, and a unique communal hot spring culture that still thrives today.
It’s a destination where visitors can experience both excitement on the slopes and deep relaxation in the baths.
How was it?
Why don’t you try next chance?
I’m Nobu , one heart enjoy together!!
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