SKI Japan -Nagano

Nozawa Onsen

Family friendly Off-piste Back Country Park Apres/Nightlife

One of the oldest traditional ski resorts in Japan. Ideal for immersing yourself in the culture and experiencing a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). The charm of the village with its quirky cobblestoned streets and steaming hot springs is for many the draw card. Nozawa Ski resort receives a generous 12m (39ft) of snow annually so plenty of snow and fun to be had..

RECOMMENDATION

The Dosijin Fire Festival which is held on the 15th Jan every year is definitely a highlight on a trip to Nozawa Onsen. It involves a huge wooden shrine being built and then set on fire for the health and growth of first born sons. It is staged by men aged 42 and 25 yrs old (so-called "unlucky ages"), there is a lot of fire, fireworks, and sake. Definitely one of the top three fire festivals to experience but you will need to book early so as you do not miss out.

FACTS & STATS

BASE ELEVATION

565 metres / 1,853 feet

PEAK ELEVATION

1,650 metres / 5,413 feet

VERTICAL RISE

1,085 metres / 3,559 feet

ANNUAL SNOWFALL

1,199 centimetres / 472 inches

TRAILS

LIFTS

SKIABLE TERRAIN

121 hectares / 300 acres

SEASON

November to May

WEATHER

NOZAWAONSEN WEATHER

ACCOMMODATION

NAGANO

Onsen Ryokan Jon Nobi

★★★★

A unique chic ryokan with old world charm meets the modern world with all the comforts of home. There are 6 natural onsen spring baths, two that can be booked privately. The lower floor has a fabulous restaurant and the first floor has a stunning modern bar where you can sip on cocktails apres ski..

Features: Traditional Japanese restaurant, Teppanyaki counter, bar lounge, entertainment areas , free Wi-Fi in lounge and bar areas (rooms to be soon made wireless), self contained apartment style room, several room options, Japanese, English bilingual staff

NAGANO

Nozawa Onsen Hotel

★★★★

Located just above the village with stunning views and only a 5-minute walk to the village. This property offers everything without being too far removed from the village and with several onsens. Room options are Western or Japanese with ensuites.

Features: Restaurant, bar, lounge, indoor & outdoor onsen, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi

NAGANO

Kiriya Ryokan

★★★★

A fabulous introduction to a ryokan and only a 3 minute walk from the Yu Road (moving walkway) to the slopes. This moderate grade ryokan has a variety of room options. Not to be missed is the option to have a traditional Japanese dinner while staying there. Close to the village restaurants and shops, this is a top choice.

Features: Japanese restaurant with private dining areas, indoor natural hot spring, free Wi-Fi, table tennis table, Western & Japanese rooms

NAGANO

Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya

★★★★

Situated in a prime position that overlooks the village and ski slopes. This is a timeless Ryokan run by a Japanese couple. Just a short stroll to the bars, shops and restaurants. The ski slopes are just a short 5 mins stroll to the closest chairlift or a 10 mins walk to the Yu Road the moving escalator. This is a great option to consider if you are looking for good value in one of the oldest ski resorts in Japan.

Features: Japanese hot springs, free Wi-Fi, bathrobe, toothbrush & soap set, laundry & dry room, ski tuning room

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ACTIVITIES

FIRE FESTIVAL ONSEN & SPA SNOW MONKEYS

Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival

Considered to be one of the most colourful fire festivals in Japan held every 15th January. The Dosoujiin Fire festival is one not to be missed. Get ready for a lot of fire, fireworks, and sake. Best advice is not to wear flammable clothes and book early so as not to miss out on the festival. Day trips can also be organised from Hakuba.

Onsen and Spa

Nozawa Onsen is home to over 30 natural hot springs and onsens many of which are located in the hotels or Ryokans that vow healing properties. For the modest, Ryokan Jon Nobi has two private onsens that you can pay a small fee and use one is in open area and the other in a cosy little cave. For a bit of pampering, there is Mirac spa that has a range of beauty and relaxation treatments located in the Ryokan Sakaya.

Jigokudani Snow Monkeys

Nozawa Onsen and Hakuba are the places to stay if you plan to visit the snow monkeys. This includes a traditional Japanese lunch, Masuichi Sake Brewery and Zenkoji Temple. When booking your snow holiday we can also organise this memorable day tour, just let us know at the time of your booking.

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GETTING THERE

LOCATION

46kms west of Nagano

CLOSEST AIRPORT

Narita Airport (Tokyo)

TRANSFER

3.5 to 4 hrs from Narita Airport (Tokyo)

CAR HIRE

Yes from Narita Airport (Tokyo)

FLIGHT

Direct flight to Tokyo or options to fly via Australia

Please note there are several Japan Rail Pass options but there is only one pass that allows you to not have to use your pass on consecuitve days. Allow us to put together your train, transfer or bus options for you. Contact us today at infoski@hot.co.nz