Japan’s Melodic Sentinel: The 5 PM Chime Japan’s Melodic Sentinel: The 5PM Chime Discover the enchanting 5 pm chime, a quintessential aspect of Japan’s charm. Originally established for emergencies, this soothing melody echoes across neighborhoods daily, serving as a vital alert system for potential dangers like tsunamis or industrial accidents. Instituted following the Niigata earthquake in 1964, it’s a testament to Japan’s commitment to disaster readiness. Each area boasts its own unique tune, from Tokyo’s “Yuyake Koyake” to Meguro’s ode to city pride. Beyond its practicality, the chime holds cultural significance. It once signaled children to return home as darkness fell, and now conveys diverse messages, including missing person alerts and local announcements. Immerse yourself in […]
Throwback to Dosojin Fire Festival
Throwback to Dosojin Fire Festival Throwback to Dosojin Fire Festival Fire and snow always go well and the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival, Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Matsuri (or 野沢温泉の道祖神祭り in Japanese), exemplifies this as one of the three great fire festivals in Japan. The old roads that run like rivers between mountain towns in Japan are dotted with gods. Known as dosojin, they are deities of roads and borders with their stone statues usually enshrined at village borders. Dosojin are good gods for the foreign traveller. Throwback to Dosojin Fire Festival Take a step back in time with us to the mesmerizing “Dosojin” Fire Festival in Nozawa Onsen! Dating all the way back to 1863, this ancient tradition continues to captivate […]
Nozawa’s Cycling Adventures
Nozawa’s Cycling Adventures Nozawa’s Cycling Adventures 🚴♂️ Get ready for some awesome cycling adventures in Nozawa Onsen this spring and summer! As the snow melts, our landscapes become perfect for biking. Check out Lake Hokuryu, Keyakinomori Park at Kijimadaira, and Shrine Kokugonji for some great routes. And mark your calendars for July 6th when the main gondola station at Nagasaka starts operating, giving cyclists access to Mt. Kenashi. Ride up and enjoy the scenic forests on your way down. Let’s hit the trails! 🌲
Wildlife Wonders of Nozawa
Wildlife Wonders of Nozawa Wildlife Wonders of Nozawa 🌿 Dive into the vibrant tapestry of spring and summer in Nozawa Onsen! As the snow surrenders to the warmth, the mountains awaken with a flurry of wildlife activity. Look out for the graceful Japanese deer, the Kamoshika, as they roam the forests, their elegant antlers piercing through the greenery. Keep an eye out for the mischievous tanuki, the raccoon dog, known for their playful antics and clever disguises. But tread cautiously, for the elusive Japanese bears may also be spotted, lumbering through the wilderness in search of nourishment. Did you know? These bears, while powerful, are often solitary creatures, preferring to roam the mountains in solitude. Amidst […]
Japan’s Annual Rainy Season
Japan’s Annual Rainy Season Japan’s Annual Rainy Season Japan’s Annual Rainy Season 🌧️ As the calendar turns towards June, so does the anticipation for Japan’s annual rainy season. ☔️ The lush greenery of Nozawa Onsen prepares to be drenched in the soothing rains, bringing a serene ambiance to our picturesque village. 🏞️ From early June onwards, nature takes on a different hue, with raindrops delicately adorning the vibrant foliage and replenishing the streams that meander through our mountainous landscape. 🍃 While it may be a departure from the sunny days of spring, the rainy season offers its own unique charm, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of Nozawa Onsen in a different light. Whether you seek […]
Snow monkeys during Spring
Snow monkeys during Spring Snow monkeys during Spring Our beloved friends are taking a relaxing break after the winter. With many visitors paying a visit to our primates in Yudanaka National Park during the cold season, not as many come to see the park turn green with nature bursting with life. Whether you’re in Nozawa when landscapes are covered in a white blanket or off-season, there are plenty of places worth paying a visit with only a short drive from Nozawa Onsen. You can go to see the snow monkeys at any time of the year with the monkey park being open all year long. Find more information on Jigokudani’s Snow Monkey Park here; https://jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/
Tanbo and Tanada
Tanbo and Tanada Tanbo and Tanada In addition to world-class snow and onsens, Nozawaonsen is renowned for its delicious, high-quality rice. The village landscape is dotted with rice fields, many of which are terraced (called tanada) to prevent soil erosion, optimize water use, and maximize arable land. Many families in Nozawa Onsen are busy with the start of rice season. Seedlings are planted into flooded rice paddies, or tanbo, in late May and early June, with harvest taking place in September and October. 🌾🍚
Throwback Thursday
Throwback Thursday Throwback Thursday While the green season has its magic, we can’t help but reminisce about winter in Nozawa. We miss the fresh groomers, long days on the mountain and the famous hot chocolate at Panorama House Buna! 🍫❄️🏔️
Golden Hour in Nozawa
Golden Hour in Nozawa Golden Hour in Nozawa Do you want to enjoy one of the best golden hours in Japan? No matter the season, Nozawa Onsen has beautiful sunrises and sunsets galore. It is impossible to take a bad picture of Nozawa Onsen! For a view like this, be sure to check out our lodge, Villa Nozawa. Visit us at https://www.nozawaholidays.com/properties/villa-nozawa-nozawa-onsen/ to book.🌅🌄✨
Outdoor Oasis
Outdoor Oasis Outdoor Oasis The weather in Nozawa and the surrounding area has been absolutely perfect for hiking, swimming, and soaking up the great outdoors.🎒 If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a beautiful day like today, head over to Lake Hokuryu for a refreshing dip. 🌴 One of the most scenic hiking trails in the Nozawa Onsen area circles this stunning, heart-shaped lake. 🩵Though it’s a bit challenging, the loop offers incredible rewards, including a visit to the serene Kosuge Shrine and a stop at Asabanoan, one of the best soba places around. We highly recommend trying their tempura soba and house-made Oyaki—both are Nagano specialties you won’t want to miss! 🍤