Japan offers splendid opportunities to everyone who enjoys skiing, ridged as it is with an endless parade of mountains from north to south and east to west – and if you are interested in skiing Japan on a budget, one of your best options is to visit the Nozawa Onsen ski resort.
It’s a truly gorgeous little ski village, with authentic Japanese experiences to be had.
Located near Nagano, this resort is sited near a village that features intriguing local architecture, modern conveniences, and a plethora of hot springs free to the public’s use.
A Hidden Skiing Gem
Affordability and quality are blended together at Nozawa Onsen, giving you the opportunity to savor some of Japan’s excellent skiing without “breaking the bank”.
For the truly budget minded, staying at Lodge Nagano is a good choice. Futons or bunk beds are used for sleeping, and the lodge includes TV, wireless Internet, and other up to date comforts.
The rooms in this lodge are clean, bright, comfortable, and relaxing, and you can choose what balance of saving and privacy you want by opting for anything from a four-person shared bunk room to a twin or double room.
Making Lodge Nagano your “headquarters” for the trip is a great way to save while enjoying the slopes to the full.
Other ways to save at Nozawa Onsen
Nozawa Onsen offers you other ways to undertake an affordable Japanese ski vacation, too. Though it may be cheaper to bring your own skis and equipment, you may also be able to save money on otherwise prohibitive excess baggage fees – depending on the airline you are using the distance you are traveling – by renting:
- skis,
- boards,
- poles, and
- ski clothing directly from the resort.
Prices are very reasonable and you can rent as many or as few items as you need.
Budget Food Too & Use Of Facilities
You can save on food costs by shopping at the village supermarket, which is naturally more affordable than restaurant fare.
The village is only a short, pleasant walk away from Lodge Nagano, and since there is a kitchen and dining room at the lodge, you are welcome to prepare the food that you purchase, also.
The kitchen is spacious and bringing groceries there to cook and eat not only allows you to save but also lets you eat at a time and in a manner convenient to you.
With many options open, you can build a vacation at Nozawa Onsen that is as affordable as your budget demands.
You can add extra services to make the experience more varied – such as viewing the beautiful snow monkeys, for example – or you can stick with the basics and still have a wonderful time skiing the slopes of Japan, returning each night to the extremely cozy lodgings available at this excellent resort.
Hope that’s of some interest if you’re thinking of coming to ski in Japan.
Cheers
Mark