Latest News from Nozawa Onsen

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 […]

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     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. 🌾🍚      

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     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! 🍤

Nozawa Onsen’s Spring Embrace Nozawa Onsen’s Spring Embrace       Nozawa Onsen gracefully transitions into its vibrant Green Season The change into a green scenery paints a vivid contrast to the snow-filled landscape of months past. Gone are the bustling ski slopes, replaced by tranquil trails beckoning adventures to explore the lush wilderness. The mountains now wear a lush green blanket, and the village is alive with blooming flowers. Delight in the refreshing embrace of nature’s Spring time as you stroll through rice paddies and walk along crystal-clear streams.     Embrace the slower pace of this season, where time seems to linger amidst the blossoming trees and chirping birdsong. Nozawa Onsen may look different now, but its beauty […]