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Chilly morning with big flakes! The snow gods ha

Chilly morning with big flakes!

The snow gods have blessed Nozawa Onsen again! 🌨️❄️ It’s been snowing since last night, and this morning brought big, fluffy flakes blanketing the mountains. By 9 AM, the roads at 1200m were already buried in snow, making it difficult to go further. Up at Yamabiko, by now, we’re likely looking at a “magic foot” of fresh powder—and it’s still coming down! While sunny skies are expected starting Monday, we’re crossing our fingers for dropping temperatures and continued snowfall. Even the lower slopes are turning white today—let’s hope for an epic start to the season by the end of the month! 🏔️⛷️

❄️ Winter Festivals & Events in Nozawa Onsen 🎉

Nozawa Onsen’s winter season is packed with exciting festivals that celebrate community, tradition, and nature. These festivals, rooted in gratitude for good harvests, health, and safety, unite the village and its visitors. Here’s a glimpse of the vibrant events happening this winter!

December: While Christmas isn’t traditionally celebrated, the village remains lively with open restaurants, bars, and shops. Skiing on New Year’s Day is a popular tradition, followed by fireworks on Nagasaka Slope!
January: Don’t miss the Dosojin Matsuri on January 15th, a dramatic fire festival honoring the village’s guardian deity with bonfires, sake, and chanting to ensure a prosperous year.
February: Celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th with romantic dinners, special treats, and cozy activities at local spots. It’s a great way to enjoy the hot springs and slopes for a memorable day.
March: On March 3rd, enjoy the Hina Matsuri festival, honoring girls’ happiness with beautiful doll displays and lanterns. On March 4th, the Hatsuuma Tōmyō Festival features lanterns, performances, and prayers for good fortune at Ogama Shrine. The Hatoguruma Cup ski race and Demo Day gear testing are scheduled for mid to late March, along with White Day celebrations on March 14th, where men return gifts to women.

Plus, once the forecast allows, night skiing on weekends at Nagasaka Gondola is a must-do!

Whether you’re here for the slopes or the celebrations, Nozawa Onsen promises an unforgettable winter holiday experience. Stay tuned for updates 📣

First Turns for the Season in Nozawa laid down tod

First Turns for the Season in Nozawa laid down today! This photo is today.

Once again, as far as we know local gun skier Shogo Kawano has taken line honours this year. Bit hard to tell from the cams but reckon we got close to the “Magic Foot” or 30cm in this little November dump. Another 30cm expected from Friday night! See they have the snow guns going too up at Yamabiko so would say the Ski Resort are quietly hoping to open on the planned date of Saturday November the 30th.
Would be a nice early start if it all comes through but a lot can happen in 10 days in the mountains so will have to wait and see. Stay tuned, do your snow dance and get a little excited as the snow season has arrived in Nozawa Onsen.
If keen to sneak up for an early ski please head to our site to book; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/availability/
See you on the slopes this Winter… 📸 @ ando hodaka

November Snow Update It’s been a sunny weekend

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 up our lodges to sprucing up the shops, Nozawa is gearing up to welcome you for another unforgettable season. Stay tuned for updates and get ready – we can’t wait to see you all in the powder soon!

Make sure to swipe for some highlights from last year and keep an eye on the forecast. Winter is just around the corner, and it’s bringing the magic with it!

The Perfect Blend of Powder Snow and Japanese Trad

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 all.

Beyond skiing, Nozawa Onsen is filled with rich culture. Wander the village’s narrow streets lined with historical shrines, cozy ryokans, and traditional wooden buildings. In January, be sure to catch the legendary Dosojin Fire Festival, a vibrant celebration that’s one of Japan’s most cherished winter events.

And when you’re ready to explore beyond the slopes, nearby Nagano and the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park are just a short trip away. This winter, let Nozawa Onsen be your gateway to Japan’s natural beauty, adventure, and timeless traditions. 🏔️🛖✨

For more information and bookings be sure to visit our website at www.nozawaholidays.com!

Epic February Powder Day Throwback to late Februa

Epic February Powder Day

Throwback to late February 2020 in Nozawa Onsen – when nearly 80cm of fresh snow covered the mountain in just 24 hours! ❄️ Smiles were big and spirits high with skiers and snowboarders rushing up Mount Kenashi for a powder day they wouldn’t soon forget. The snow was deep, the stoke was real, and it was an unforgettable scene in our winter wonderland. Ready to create your own epic snow memories? Be sure to book your ski gear in advance to make the most of your time on the slopes!

Head over to https://www.nozawaholidays.com/ski-gear-clothing-hire/ to get set up. See you in the powder! 🎿

🎆 Ebisu-ko: Honoring Prosperity in Nozawa Onsen

🎆 Ebisu-ko: Honoring Prosperity in Nozawa Onsen 🎇

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.

First Snowfall Magic on Mount Kenashi ❄️✨ T

First 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 winter, knowing that the season will be here in full force soon enough.

With winter just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan your trip and secure any extras you’ll need for a smooth, fun-filled stay in Nozawa. From ski and snowboard rentals to lessons, transfers, and even tours to see the famous snow monkeys, we’ve got you covered!

Follow this link to book: https://www.nozawaholidays.com/services/

🍂 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 skies—signs that the cooler days are settling in.

Your Guide to Getting Around Nozawa Onsen This Win

Your Guide to Getting Around Nozawa Onsen This Winter! ❄️🚶‍♀️🗺️

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 that provides a direct, scenic route up to the Hikage slopes. This unique escalator-style path makes it easy to reach the mountain and start your ski day with no need for heavy boots on icy roads! For those on the Nagasaka side, the main Nagasaka Gondola is your fast track to the mountain, while the classic Hikage Gondola offers a nostalgic ride with beautiful views. Plus, if you’re looking to travel between Nagasaka and Hikage, the ski-doo shuttle provides a quick and scenic connection through the forest.

The village streets are quaint and windy, which adds to Nozawa’s charm but can make getting around a bit tricky at first. We recommend checking out maps in the link below👇 to get a feel for the layout ahead of time. With a little planning, you’ll be ready for a smooth winter holiday here in Nozawa Onsen!

https://www.nozawaholidays.com/town-map/

🧳 Seamless Luggage Delivery to Nozawa 🚚 Onl

🧳 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 courier service, operated by “Kuro Neko” (Black Cat), is highly efficient and affordable. With counters at all major airports in Japan, you can ship your luggage directly to most accommodations in Nozawa, including all Nozawa Holidays properties. You can even arrange to send bags back to the airport or another destination when you’re ready to head home.

For details on how to book this service, check out the link: https://www.nozawaholidays.com/courier-your-bags/

If you’re taking a shuttle, it’s often easier to bring your bags along to have everything on hand when you arrive. But if you’re traveling by train, the courier service makes navigating Tokyo seamless, so you can relax and enjoy the journey.

♨️ 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. 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 or for locals to end a long workday. Onsens in Japan have a rich history dating back to ancient times, serving not only as places to bathe but as community hubs where people gathered, healed, and restored themselves.

To preserve this cherished tradition, please follow onsen etiquette: rinse before entering the water, keep towels out of the baths, and be mindful of others. If you’d like to show appreciation for the local efforts in maintaining these precious resources, each onsen has a donation box where you can contribute. For anyone planning to visit, make sure to check out our onsen etiquette guide here for a respectful and enjoyable experience:

https://www.nozawaholidays.com/onsen-etiquette/

Counting Down to Powder Paradise The countdown to

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 us all with record snowfall, giving skiers and riders an epic sendoff. Here’s to an unforgettable season of powder-filled days and mountain magic! ❄️🏔️

If you’re still on the lookout for accommodation in the upcoming season, there are still spots available! Here’s what March had to offer last season: https://www.nozawaholidays.com/march-is-magic-in-nozawa-onsen/

❄️ 🏔️ 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? Sunscreen for those blue bird days on the mountain, plenty of cash (Japan is still very much a cash-based society), and travel insurance for peace of mind. Pack well, stay warm, and get ready for a memorable adventure in Nozawa Onsen!

https://www.nozawaholidays.com/pack-trip-nozawa-onsen/

First Snow Falls for the North of Japan Cool run

First Snow Falls for the North of Japan

Cool runnings. Kurodake Ropeway in the Daisetsuzan National Park in the far North of Japan on the island of Hokkaido is usually our go to for early snowfalls in Japan. Looks like they are leading the way this coming season too with the second dusting of the season happening overnight. The resort is suggesting winter tyres are needed if visiting today!

Closer to home at Yokoteyama in nearby Shiga Kogen temps were hovering just above 0 degrees this morning and there was a serious frost accenting the red and gold leaves of the mountain scenery. Locals saying it was the coldest day they have felt for a long time. Shiga Kogen like Nozawa also hoping to open the end of November, will just have to wait and see. If desperate for some early turns head to Karuizawa Ski Resort they plan to open on the 1st of November with man made snow. Always entertaining to watch.

The powers to be including my 85 Year old farming neighbour are talking a generous season on the snow front. Time will tell but make no mistake Winter is coming, so hope you have started your pre-season training and are getting excited. More on Nozawa Opening date here; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/nozawa-onsen-skiing/nozawa-ski-open-date/
📷 @kurodakeropeway Arigatou 🙏

⛰️Nozawa Onsen Sets the Stage for Cycling Adve

⛰️Nozawa Onsen Sets the Stage for Cycling Adventures🚴🏻‍♂️

The recent Nozawa Onsen Bicycle Festival was a thrilling success, setting the stage for even more cycling events to come! With its scenic routes stretching across the mountain and top-notch infrastructure, Nozawa Onsen is quickly becoming a paradise for cycling enthusiasts, both road and off-road. The festival, held at the beginning of October, brought together contestants and spectators from all over Japan, with racers zooming up and down the mountain, cheered on by the crowds. The village itself hosted vibrant food markets offering delicious local cuisine, drinks, and other attractions that kept the fun going well into the evening. Stay tuned for more events as cycling grows in popularity here in Nozawa Onsen! While winter is famous for skiing and snowboarding, the off-winter season is now packed with exciting festivals, outdoor adventures, and endless greenery. We hope to see you here soon!

Keen to explore more about exploring Nozawa Onsen by bike? Click the link below! 👇🏻

https://www.nozawaholidays.com/holiday-nozawa-onsen-japan/explore-nozawa-onsen-by-bike/

🌨️ First Snow on the Horizon? 🌨️ The te

🌨️ First Snow on the Horizon? 🌨️

The temperatures are starting to drop, and we might see the first light snow up on the mountain soon! At the top of Yamabiko, it’s forecasted to dip just below zero, which means Nozawa’s iconic slopes could soon be dusted with a fresh, thin layer of snow. Last year around this time, we witnessed the mountain’s early transformation, with the first signs of the season gracing the landscape. Check out these stunning photos from October last year, when the peaks were lightly covered in snow, teasing the winter ahead.

If you’re already dreaming about carving through Nozawa’s powder, don’t miss out on our Early Bird Season Pass deal, which finishes on the 21st of October! Save 10,000 yen by applying now and get ready for an unforgettable winter:

https://www.nozawaholidays.com/nozawa-onsen-skiing/season-pass-nozawa-onsen/

❄️ 🏠 Your Perfect Winter Escape Awaits 🏠

❄️ 🏠 Your Perfect Winter Escape Awaits 🏠 ❄️

Our charming ski resort town is gearing up for another unforgettable season. Enjoy the aerial view of Nozawa Onsen showing the beauty of the village and some of the properties available to book with Nozawa Holidays. Whether you’re looking for cozy accommodation, ski rentals, passes, lessons, or more, we’ve got everything you need to make your winter holiday in Japan effortless and memorable. Start planning your stay now, and let us take care of the details for a perfect winter getaway!

👉 Explore our accommodations here: https://www.nozawaholidays.com/properties/

Get on the bus Gus - Book your transfers now You

Get on the bus Gus - Book your transfers now

You may be starting to plan your trip to Nozawa Onsen this winter about now. It all starts with how to get to us, here are some good tips and options; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/getting-to-nozawa-onsen/
When travelling to and from the Airport in Tokyo either Narita or Haneda, the Snow Shuttle is by far the easiest option. It takes you from the airport right to Nozawa so no need to lug bags or worry about missing trains. The trains in Japan are of course amazing but if arriving off an evening flight and have kids and luggage the bus is the go.

Busy times will fill fast so head to this link to book your seat now; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/shuttle-bus/
Can also book inter-resort shuttles in the same spot so from Nozawa to Hakuba, Shiga Kogen, Myoko and Madarao. All pretty easy. We strongly advise not to bring a car to Nozawa. You don’t need it to get around the village as everything is very compact and within walking distance. There is also a resort shuttle if need it. With so much snow and our narrow streets cars and parking can become very problematic. If you do bring a car make sure you have parking arranged, 4wd and snow tires, also bring a shovel to dig your car out. Some warnings on cars in Nozawa; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/accommodation-nozawa-onsen/car-parking-nozawa-onsen/

Take it easy, take the Snow shuttle or train. We look forward to welcoming you this winter to Nozawa

Lift Pass Prices Nozawa Onsen It’s that time o

Lift Pass Prices Nozawa Onsen

It’s that time of year again when you can start to look forward to buying a little bit of happiness. The old saying; You can’t buy happiness but you can buy a lift pass. The Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort has just released prices for the coming 2024/25 season, which could kick off in as little as 2 months time! Here is a link to this years prices; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/lift-pass-prices-nozawa-japan/

A slight increase again this season, there were many years when they didn’t put them up at all but Japan has been experiencing some inflation these past years so imagine the resort is feeling it too. Still if get a 6 day pass it costs about 6300 Yen a day or about $AUD65 for our Australian guests so on a world stage still great value.

Season Passes Prices have also been released and there is an Early Bird special if getting one of those need to apply and purchase by the 21st of October. More details here; https://www.nozawaholidays.com/nozawa-onsen-skiing/season-pass-nozawa-onsen/

Most information is in the above links on the Nozawa Holidays web site so have a good read and shoot us any questions if need. We look forward to seeing you on the slopes in Nozawa this season. Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu.
Remember to most affective way to avoid burn out is to get up from your desk, drive to a ski resort, buy a ski pass and never return from the mountains!

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View detailed snow forecast for Nozawa Onsen at:
snow-forecast.com

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Contact Details

Nozawa Holidays
6739-11 Oaza-Toyosata
Nozawa-Onsen-Mura
Simotakai-gun, Nagano
Japan 389-2502

Japan: 05055326026

Japan: 0269 67 0467

Australia: 07 5641 1198

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