Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nozawa Onsen (Nozawa Onsen Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture) is a tourist destination that combines Japan's leading hot spring town with a ski resort. It has long thrived as a therapeutic hot spring resort, and the culture of public baths (outdoor baths) dating back to the Edo period still remains. The hot springs are abundant, and there are numerous hot spring spots scattered throughout the area, including Oyu in the center of the hot spring town and Ogama, the source of the hot springs. In winter, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is renowned for its powder snow, while from spring to autumn, hiking, satoyama scenery, and local cuisine (nozawana, soba noodles, and eggs boiled in hot spring water) are also attractive. The Dosojin Festival (Dondoyaki/Fire Festival), held every year on January 15th, is known as one of the most famous fire festivals in Japan and attracts many tourists.
Highlights
- Touring outdoor baths (13 public baths): There are public baths scattered around the hot spring town, including Oyu, which are free to enter or require a donation. You can enjoy the atmosphere of touring them in geta sandals.
- Oyu: A historic public bath in the center of the hot spring town. The scenery of hot spring deposits and steam is very picturesque.
- Ogama: The source of the hot spring. You can see the hot water gushing out and the locals boiling vegetables and eggs (visits are available).
- Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort: A ski resort known for its abundant snowfall and wide variety of courses. Direct access to the slopes from the hot spring town is also appealing.
- Stroll along the cobblestone streets and shopping streets of the hot spring town: A street lined with traditional inns, souvenir shops, and restaurants, where you can enjoy local gourmet food and Nozawana.
- Dosojin Festival (Dondoyaki): A fire festival held on January 15th. It is famous for its impressive rituals and large-scale bonfires (please note that viewing can be crowded, so please be careful of safety).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Iiyama Station on the JR Iiyama Line (or Togari-Nozawa Onsen Station, depending on the line). From either station, you can access the area by local bus or village bus bound for Nozawa Onsen.
- From Tokyo: It takes about 2-3 hours by Shinkansen and conventional train (e.g. Tokyo → Nagano/via Iiyama), or there are direct seasonal express buses (takes about 4-5 hours).
- From Nagano: It takes about an hour from Nagano Station by train or bus. In winter, there are often more direct shuttle buses.
- car: Approximately 60-90 minutes from Nagano City, approximately 3.5-4.5 hours from Tokyo (depending on road and traffic conditions). Chains or studless tires are required in winter.
- From the airportThe most common route is to travel from Haneda or Narita to the Nagano area and then take local trains or buses from there.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Strolling around the hot spring town and visiting 1-2 outdoor baths takes about 3-5 hours (short sightseeing is possible).
- Accommodation (enjoy sightseeing and hot springs): Over a two-day, one-night stay, you can leisurely enjoy touring the outdoor baths, meals, and hot springs.
- Ski/snow season: If you plan to focus on skiing, we recommend staying 2-3 nights, but if you want to enjoy it thoroughly, we recommend 3 nights or more.
- Participating in the event (Dosojin Festival): 1-2 nights, including the day before and the day after. Early reservations are required.
Nearby spots
- Iiyama city: You can enjoy the local history museum and local food culture.
- Jigokudani Monkey Park (approximately 40-60 minutes by car) *Famous for its snow monkeys in winter (convenient to use by car).
- Nagano, Zenkoji Temple (about 1 hour by car or train)
- Natural and highland areas such as Myoko Kogen, Togakushi, and Shiga Kogen (accessible by car, allow plenty of time for your trip).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The winter ski season and the Dosojin Festival on January 15th are extremely busy, so please make your reservations for accommodation, buses, and event venues early.
- Hot Spring MannersPublic baths are also a place for locals to live. Please observe basic etiquette, such as washing your body before bathing, not putting towels in the bath, bathing quietly, and refraining from taking photos in the changing room. Outdoor baths are often free or require donations, and if there is a donation box, please put a donation in.
- Tattoo: Some public baths and inns may refuse entry to guests with tattoos. If you have a tattoo, please check with the inn or facility in advance, or consider using a private bath or family bath.
- Cold weather and snowy roads: In winter, temperatures are very low and there is a lot of snow. Please bring warm clothing, non-slip shoes, and if you are visiting by car, be sure to bring winter gear (studless tires and chains).
- Event viewing safety: The Dosojin Festival is a traditional event with a long history and can be dangerous at times. Please stay in the designated viewing area and follow the instructions of staff.
- Garbage and environmental considerationsTo protect the environment in tourist areas, please take your trash home with you or dispose of it in designated areas, and be mindful of your manners when strolling around.
Nozawa Onsen is a fascinating place that combines hot spring culture with nature and activities that change with the seasons. Please plan your stay and timing according to your purpose (hot springs, skiing, festival viewing), and be sure to observe local etiquette when enjoying the area.
