Nozawa Onsen
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and world-class skiing at Nozawa Onsen, famous for its hot springs and powder snow.
Powder
8.0
Terrain
8.0
Family
8.0
About the Resort
Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort is a ski destination located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
- Before becoming a renowned ski resort, it was a hot spring town.
- It is described as a large ski area with just one main ski area1, encompassing approximately 300 hectares of terrain.
- The resort's highest point reaches 1650 meters.
- It features 18 lifts and 1 gondola.
- Nozawa Onsen receives an average annual snowfall of 11 meters.
- The ski terrain is broadly divided as 40% beginner, 30% intermediate, and 20% advanced. It offers diverse terrain, including tree trails, groomed runs, and plenty of moguls.
- The resort boasts a 10-kilometer long run (Yamabiko → Kaminodaira → Paradise → Forest Beginner Course), which is likely the longest continuous stretch in Nagano.
Key Stats
Snow Depth
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Courses
43
Longest Run
4,900m
Title 4
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Why You'll Love This Ski Resort
- Authentic Japanese Atmosphere & Hot Springs (Onsen): Nozawa Onsen is an authentic Japanese ski village packed with natural hot spring onsens. It has a true village feel and has retained its traditional Japanese charm despite becoming popular. After a day on the slopes, the best way to relax is at one of the 13 free public bathhouses scattered throughout the town. People have been visiting Nozawa for its thermal waters for over 1300 years.
- Exceptional Powder & Diverse Terrain: The resort is praised for its excellent snow quality and is considered to have some of the best powder in Nagano. It provides a diverse range of terrain suitable for all skill levels. For intermediate skiers and snowboarders, the terrain and terrain park offer ample fun.
- Note on Backcountry/Off-Piste: There is conflicting information regarding backcountry access at Nozawa Onsen. One source states that a drawback is that it "does not permit backcountry", while another indicates it is an "excellent place to try off-piste and backcountry touring" due to its fresh powder. Visitors should verify the current rules and designated areas.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Nozawa Onsen is extremely family-friendly. Its popularity with international visitors means there are good options for families, including kids' activity areas, childcare, and English-speaking ski and snowboard lessons.
- Vibrant Village Life & English Friendliness: The village offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife. It is very English-friendly, with many services and businesses catering to international visitors, some of which are owned and operated by foreigners with everything available in English. English-speaking ski/snowboard schools are available.
- Accommodation & Dining: Accommodation is primarily concentrated within the village, offering excellent options, including private chalets and high-end 'ryokan' (traditional guesthouses), though booking well in advance is recommended due to demand. The village has plenty of restaurants and bars that provide entertainment well into the night, along with traditional Japanese-style pubs.
- Convenient Access: Nozawa Onsen is within easy reach from central Tokyo. A two-hour shinkansen ride will get you to Iiyama Station, followed by a 20 to 25-minute shuttle bus directly to the resort. It is approximately 4.5 hours from Narita Airport. The resort is also about 50 to 60 minutes from the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park.
- Overall Appeal: It is considered one of the best all-round resorts in the region, with an overall visitor rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, scoring highly for snowsureness, variety of pistes, off-piste, scenery, and apres-ski.
Terrain
Course Map
Level Guide
Beginner
35%Intermediate
40%Advanced
25%Terrain Information2
Snowboard Park
Back Country : Yes
Ticket Price
Lift Tickets（1day）
Adult Lift Ticket: 7,800 yen
Junior Lift Ticket: 4,200 yen
Senior Lift Ticket: 7,000 yen
Rentals
Ski Set : 5,200 yen
Snowboard Set : 5,200 yen
Wear : 4,500 yen
Lesson
Ski Set : 4,800 yen
Snowboard Set : 4,800 yen
Wear : 4,200 yen
Access Information
Location
By Car
Tokyo→Kanetsu Expressway→Joshinetsu Expressway→Nozawa Onsen (3hr30min)
Parking
2,000 spaces
By Train
Tokyo Station→Iiyama Station(2hr)→Bus(20min)→Nozawa Onsen
Photo Gallery