November Snow Update November Snow Update It’s been a sunny weekend here in Nozawa Onsen, much to everyone’s surprise after the cloudy forecast. The blue skies made for a gorgeous backdrop to wrap up the hiking season and take in the last of the autumn vibes. But winter is knocking, and it’s bringing the goods! Starting Sunday night, we’re expecting nearly 30cm of fresh snow up at Yamabiko, with flakes likely to keep falling through Monday. The chill is set to drop temps below zero, so we might even see some light snowfall gracing the village streets – fingers crossed! The town is buzzing with final touches as everyone prepares for the winter influx. From cozying […]
Powder Snow and Japanese Tradition
Powder Snow and Japanese Tradition The Perfect Blend of Powder Snow and Japanese Tradition Awaits ❄️ Dreaming of a ski holiday with breathtaking landscapes and authentic Japanese culture? Nozawa Onsen is the place to be! Famous for its natural hot springs, this traditional Japanese village offers 13 free public onsens where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Surrounded by serene, centuries-old baths with healing minerals, soaking here is a true escape into relaxation. Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort boasts incredible powder snow, with over 1,000 meters of vertical drop and 36 trails that cater to every skier level. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly slopes or thrilling runs, the diverse terrain promises an unforgettable experience for […]
Ebisu-ko: Honoring Prosperity
Ebisu-ko: Honoring Prosperity Ebisu-ko: Honoring Prosperity This weekend, Nozawa Onsen Village celebrated “Ebisu-ko”, honoring Ebisu-sama, one of Japan’s seven gods of good fortune. Recognisable by his fishing rod and large fish, Ebisu-sama is revered as a guardian of prosperity — a symbol of bountiful fish for fishermen, abundant harvests for farmers, and success for merchants. The festival filled the village with a lively local market and ended with fireworks display that lit up the clear night sky. Blessed with sunny days and crisp, starry evenings, the village gathered together to share hopes for good fortune and a prosperous season ahead.
Snowfall Magic on Mount Kenashi
Snowfall Magic on Mount Kenashi Snowfall Magic on Mount Kenashi ❄️✨ This morning, Nozawa Onsen awoke to a truly magical sight—Mount Kenashi wrapped in a fresh blanket of snow! Although most of it will likely melt with the warmer, sunnier days ahead, there’s something about that first snow that fills the village with excitement. Seeing the mountain begin to turn white again, even if only for a short time, is a thrilling reminder that winter is on its way. It’s hard not to feel a rush of joy watching the big, fluffy flakes fall at the mountain’s peak, each one adding to the promise of powder days ahead. For now, we’ll enjoy this first taste of […]
Embracing Autumn’s Beauty and Traditions
Embracing Autumn’s Beauty and Traditions Embracing Autumn’s Beauty and Traditions As autumn wraps its golden hues around Nozawa Onsen, a cherished season of gratitude and preparation comes to life in Japan’s heartland. In Japanese culture, autumn is a time to honor nature’s cycle, as it begins to rest in brilliant displays of red and gold. The village is alive with visitors from across Japan, here to savor the seasonal charm on the long weekend. For us at Nozawa Onsen, this is a vital time, as our incredible team at Nozawa Holidays works tirelessly to ready everything for the winter ahead. Keep an eye out for Japanese kamoshika roaming the mountain slopes and migrating birds gracing the […]
Guide to Getting Around Nozawa
Guide to Getting Around Nozawa Guide to Getting Around Nozawa Winter season is fast approaching, and we know you’re just as excited as we are! One of the best things about Nozawa Onsen is how easy it is to explore our charming village entirely on foot. Nearly everything you need is within a short walk, from cozy cafes and local shops to the slopes and the town center. For those who may need it, there’s also a handy snow shuttle available, but with Nozawa’s compact layout, it’s easy to enjoy the convenience and character of the village at your own pace! If you’re staying closer to the town center, you’ll also find the “Yu Road,” a covered moving walkway […]
Seamless Luggage Delivery to Nozawa
Seamless Luggage Delivery to Nozawa Seamless Luggage Delivery to Nozawa Only three days ago, the Nagasaka Gondola finished its last run for the green season, marking a pause until the winter snow blankets Nozawa Onsen once more. Soon, we’ll welcome the gondola back, hopefully rolling above snow-laden landscapes perfect for the ski season. With the winds shifting north, we’re already feeling the crisp chill in the air, hinting at the season’s arrival. Expect the first snowfall on Mount Kenashi around November 5th – a sign that winter is on its way! For those planning their trip, we’ve had plenty of questions about luggage delivery. Yes, you can absolutely send your bags up to Nozawa with ease! The Takyubin […]
Unwind in Nozawa’s Natural Springs
Unwind in Nozawa’s Natural Springs Unwind in Nozawa’s Natural Springs In Nozawa Onsen, experiencing the local onsens is a unique privilege rooted in centuries-old tradition and the incredible hospitality of the village. Nozawa Onsen’s hot springs have been a cherished part of the community for generations, maintained and funded by locals who warmly welcome everyone to enjoy them. Unwind in Nozawa’s Natural Springs Unlike many other onsens in Japan, 13 of these hot springs are free, thanks to the dedication of local residents and volunteers who maintain them year-round. Each onsen has its own distinct mineral composition, believed to bring health benefits and promote relaxation—a perfect way to unwind after a day on the snowy slopes […]
Counting Down to Powder Paradise
Counting Down to Powder Paradise Counting Down to Powder Paradise The countdown to snow season is on, and we’re gearing up for Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort’s grand opening on November 30th! With November already showing promising signs—temperatures dropping to -10°C at night and light snow beginning to dust the mountain—we’re hoping for another legendary winter. Back in February 2022, we saw a whopping 4 meters of snowfall, but can we beat that this season? The record still stands from the 1980s, when over 10 meters covered our slopes throughout the season, setting the stage for Nozawa as one of Japan’s top powder havens. And don’t be surprised if the mountain brings a late-season twist—last March surprised […]
Nozawa Onsen Packing Essentials
Nozawa Onsen Packing Essentials Nozawa Onsen Packing Essentials Heading to Nozawa Onsen for your winter ski holiday? So much fun awaits you on the slopes, but to enjoy your time to the fullest, being prepared is key! Packing for a winter holiday here can be a bit different—especially if you’re used to warm-weather vacations. A few essentials to bring include warm pants and jumpers to keep you cozy, and a waterproof jacket to protect you from snow that melts fast in the sun. Don’t forget waterproof shoes, as slushy streets can quickly ruin a pair of sneakers! For those planning to rent gear, leave your ski equipment at home—we’ve got everything you need here! Other must-haves? […]