Nozawa Onsen, nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, is a hot spring paradise with a distinctive charm. Home to one of the country’s oldest and most revered ski resorts, this picturesque village in Nagano Prefecture is equally celebrated for its profusion of natural onsen (hot springs). Nozawa Onsen offers 13 public bathhouses, each with its own unique mineral composition, known collectively as soto-yu. These baths, heated by the area’s volcanic activity, provide a soothing retreat amidst the snow-capped landscape.
With its rich history dating back to the 8th century, Nozawa Onsen has managed to retain its traditional ambiance, evident in its quaint streets lined with sake breweries, charming eateries, and time-honored ryokan (traditional inns). The area is also widely recognized for the fiery ‘Dosojin Fire Festival’, a vibrant winter event that draws crowds from across the globe. A visit to Nozawa Onsen offers not just a rejuvenating hot spring experience but also a journey steeped in cultural immersion and natural beauty.
