Nozawa Onsen: Skiing and Hot Springs in Nagano

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort: Completely Covered in Natural Snow

Nozawa Onsen in Nagano is a prominent ski destination in Japan.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, located in Nagano's Shimotakai district, was jointly established by local innkeepers and Nozawa Onsen Village.

The resort features around 40 slopes for visitors of all ages, with a free winter shuttle connecting the village directly to the ski grounds—making getting around easy for guests who don't drive.

Located in the heart of the resort, Hikage Gelande is easily accessible from the village and serves as Nozawa Onsen's main hub.

Spanning over 600 meters, this family-friendly area hosts essential amenities including the ski school, ski center, daycare, and Kids Park directly along the slope.
Click and drag the cursor along the screen to view the actual scenery.

The lift can be seen upfront. The Kumataka Course, which runs through the trees, is on the right side.

As the elevation rises, the ski courses become more difficult. There is a course at an altitude of 1,000 meters, where the maximum gradient is 39 degrees. Advanced skiers should give it a try.

After Skiing, Enjoy the Hot Springs

True to its name, Nozawa Onsen is famous for its abundance of thermal hot springs—the perfect way to warm up and unwind after a day on the slopes.

The village has 13 free public bathhouses, known as sotoyu, fed directly by natural mineral springs. Most visitors cap off a day in the snow with a sotoyu meguri (a tour of these outdoor bathhouses). Below are a few of the top bathhouses to visit:

To view the interior, click the image of the building.

1. Oh-yu

As the symbolic heart of Nozawa Onsen, Oyu is renowned for its therapeutic waters, traditionally believed to aid gastrointestinal issues, rheumatism, women's health conditions, and gout.

Rebuilt in 1994, the bathhouse retains its historic location and traditional architectural style, preserving the timeless charm of old Japan.

2. Asagama-no-Yu

This bathhouse is located in Ogama-dori in Nozawa Onsen Village. Its water source, Ogama, is designated as a natural monument. The hot spring is said to be effective for diabetes, rheumatism, palsy, and neuralgia.

Nozawa Onsen Sotoyu Asagama-no-Yu

8759 Toyosato, Nozawa Onsen Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefe...

3. Nakao-no-Yu

This elegant wooden building is the largest bathhouse in Nozawa Onsen, popular for its spacious layout despite being located slightly outside the village center.

Its waters are traditionally believed to help with skin conditions, rheumatism, women's health issues, and heavy metal detox.

Inside, bathers can choose between two tubs: atsu-yu (hot) and nuru-yu (mild)—though many first-timers find even the mild bath delightfully hot.

Enjoy Winter Sports and Hot Springs in Nozawa Onsen!

Long a hidden gem among international travelers, Nozawa Onsen offers the ultimate Japanese winter experience by seamlessly blending world-class skiing with serene thermal hot springs.

So why not join the locals and immerse yourself in the unique delights of a traditional snowy getaway?

Main image by Pixta
This is an updated version of an article originally published on December 9, 2015.