Nozawa Onsen | Ski Resort Guide
Looking for the ultimate winter wonderland to hit the slopes this season? Look no further than Nozawa Onsen!
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Japanese Alps, this charming ski resort town is the perfect destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its powder-packed slopes, breathtaking views, and vibrant après-ski scene, Nozawa Onsen is an adventure waiting to be had.
But what sets Nozawa Onsen apart from other ski destinations? For starters, the resort boasts some of the best snow in the world, with an average annual snowfall of over 12 meters!
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With 36 courses and 21 lifts spread across 297 hectares of skiable terrain, there's something for everyone here, whether you're a beginner or an expert. And if you're looking for a challenge, why not take on the resort's longest run, the 10-kilometer Skyline course?
Beyond the skiing itself, Nozawa Onsen is a charming town with plenty of culture and history to explore. Take a stroll through the traditional hot spring town and you'll find yourself transported to another time, with historic buildings, narrow streets, and welcoming locals. And of course, you can't visit Nozawa Onsen without indulging in a relaxing soak in one of the town's many hot springs, or onsen.
But the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down. Nozawa Onsen has a vibrant après-ski scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Sample local delicacies like soba noodles or grilled salmon, or relax with a sake or hot cocoa. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at karaoke, a popular pastime among locals and visitors alike?
5 Top Facts
Nozawa Onsen is one of the oldest ski resorts in Japan, with a history dating back to the early 20th century.
The resort boasts 36 courses spread across 297 hectares of skiable terrain, ranging from beginner slopes to challenging expert runs.
Nozawa Onsen receives an average of over 12 meters of snowfall per year, making it one of the snowiest ski resorts in the world.
The resort is known for its natural hot springs, or onsen, which can be found throughout the town and are perfect for a post-skiing soak.
Nozawa Onsen has a rich cultural heritage, with a traditional hot spring town that dates back over 1,000 years, and is home to numerous historic buildings and cultural sites.
Nozawa Onsen is located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Here are the directions to Nozawa Onsen from Tokyo:
By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Iiyama Station (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes). From Iiyama Station, take the Nozawa Onsen Liner Bus to Nozawa Onsen (approximately 25 minutes).
By Express Train: Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Tokyo Station to Iiyama Station (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes). From Iiyama Station, take the Nozawa Onsen Liner Bus to Nozawa Onsen (approximately 25 minutes).
By Car: Drive from Tokyo to Nozawa Onsen (approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions). Take the Kanetsu Expressway to the Joshinetsu Expressway, then exit at the Toyota-Iiyama Interchange and follow the signs to Nozawa Onsen.
Note: It is recommended to check the bus and train schedules in advance and book tickets if necessary. In addition, please be aware that driving in snowy conditions may require winter tires or chains, so it is important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before traveling.
Nozawa Onsen is a great destination for Backcountry Skiing, with plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning natural surroundings. Here are some things to know about backcountry skiing in Nozawa Onsen:
Safety first: Backcountry skiing can be dangerous, so it's important to be well-prepared and have the necessary skills and equipment. It is recommended to hire a local guide who knows the area and can ensure your safety.
Off-piste skiing: Nozawa Onsen has many off-piste areas that are accessible from the lifts, but it's important to stay within the resort boundaries and follow the rules and regulations. Ski patrol is present to ensure your safety.
Backcountry skiing tours: If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, there are several backcountry skiing tours available in the area. These tours will take you into the wilderness outside of the resort, where you can experience untracked powder and stunning views.
Snowshoeing: If you're not quite ready for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing is another great option for exploring the winter landscape. Many of the backcountry tours also offer snowshoeing options.
Respect the environment: When backcountry skiing or snowshoeing, it's important to respect the environment and leave no trace. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
Whether you're an experienced backcountry skier or just looking to try something new, Nozawa Onsen has plenty to offer for an unforgettable backcountry skiing adventure.
Our Services
At Mountain Swell Photography, we're passionate about capturing the magic of winter sports in Japan.
Our team operates out of Nozawa Onsen each winter, offering professional snow photography services to suit all levels and abilities. And if you're looking to explore other resorts around the Nagano region, we're happy to accommodate your needs.
Whether you're looking for a basic hourly package or a full day mountain shoot with guiding, our experienced photographer/guide is here to capture your unforgettable moments. While we specialize in mountain sports photography, we're also available for family portraits and other special occasions.
This week, I had the incredible opportunity to join Global Adventures to capture their South Island running trip on video. This all-inclusive adventure is packed with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences