Welcome to Nozawa Onsen!

Product Guide & Travel Information 2026–27

Everything you need to know before you go — brought to you by Travelplan Ski

Explore the Guide Book Your Trip

297hectares

Skiable Terrain

50+km

Trails

17lifts

Including 2 Gondolas

1,085m

Vertical Drop

565–1,650m

Elevation Range

1,058cm

Annual Snowfall

THE RESORT

Introduction

"Nozawa Onsen is one of Japan's most storied and atmospheric ski villages, where centuries-old hot springs meet world-class skiing, and the charm of a traditional Japanese mountain town surrounds you at every turn."

Snow falling on a lantern-lit lane in Nozawa Onsen village at night

Nestled in northern Nagano Prefecture, Nozawa Onsen blends authentic culture with unforgettable winter adventures. Known for its naturally heated onsen streets, steaming manholes, and vibrant village life, this is a destination unlike any other ski resort in the world.

With over 300 hectares of terrain, long scenic runs, and famously reliable snow, Nozawa Onsen is one of Nagano's most atmospheric winter destinations. Beyond the slopes, you'll find 13 public onsen, cobblestone laneways, family-run eateries, and a calendar filled with winter festivals, local events, and unique cultural experiences.

If you want to combine a rich cultural experience with great powder snow and a well-earned soak in a traditional onsen hot spring, then Nozawa Onsen is your place!

Key Ski Areas

Yamabiko Area (Top Zone)

Often gets the village's best snow conditions — a favourite for powder hunters and confident riders.

Uenotaira

A gentle, open plateau with consistent snowfall and beautiful scenery. Ideal for building confidence or a laid-back ski day.

Paradise & Hikage Area

Easy access to key resort facilities — the go-to spot for families, first-timers, and group lessons.

Nagasaka Gondola Area

The most convenient way to reach major ski zones quickly, especially during powder mornings.

Karasawa

Known for its relaxed vibe and stunning views, especially at sunset. Perfect for beginners wanting gentle slopes away from busy areas.

Terrain Breakdown

40% Beginner

30% Intermediate

30% Advanced

Terrain Park

Features jumps, rails, boxes, and a half-pipe — something for everyone from beginners to seasoned park riders.

THE DESTINATION

Why Nozawa?

Authentic Japanese village atmosphere — not a purpose-built resort, but a real, living community
13 free public onsen (hot springs) maintained by local volunteers for centuries
Famously reliable, heavy snowfall — average over 1,000cm per season
Excellent terrain variety for all levels: 40% beginner, 30% intermediate, 30% advanced
World-class terrain park with jumps, rails, boxes, and half-pipe
Dedicated kids areas, day care, and snow school — perfect for families
Vibrant cultural calendar: Dosojin Fire Festival, New Year's Eve fireworks and seasonal slope events
Outstanding on-mountain and village dining scene
Day trip access to Snow Monkeys (Jigokudani Monkey Park) — a truly unique Japan experience
Strong English-speaking tourism infrastructure
Village is compact and walkable — everything within easy reach
Traditional architecture, narrow cobblestone alleys, and artisan craft stores

Nozawa Onsen is the only ski resort in Japan — perhaps the world — where you can spend the morning carving powder on a 10km run, the afternoon soaking in a free, centuries-old communal hot spring bath, and the evening watching a flaming torch festival in the village streets. It is a place that rewards curiosity and rewards those who look beyond the slopes.

TRAVEL

Getting There

Arriving in Japan — Visit Japan Web QR Code

"Visit Japan Web" is the Japanese Government's online immigration clearance and customs declaration portal. Register in advance to receive a QR code, which you present with your passport at immigration and customs checkpoints for a faster entry. You can also use Visit Japan Web to create a tax-free QR code for making tax-free purchases.

Time Zone & Weather

Japan Standard Time (JST, UTC+9) is 2 hours behind Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). When you arrive in Japan, set your watch back 2 hours. December to February is very cold — have a jacket and gloves ready when you land.

Getting from Tokyo Airports to Nozawa Onsen

Option 1 — Airport Shuttle (Easiest)

The Nagano Snow Shuttle operates from both Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita airports to Nozawa Onsen. Both private and shared shuttles are available. Must be pre-booked in advance — speak with your Travelplan consultant.

Journey time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Includes 2 scheduled rest stops
Note: Carry yen cash for snacks/vending machines at stops
Seasonal service: typically mid-December to early March

Option 2 — Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Iiyama Station (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes). From Iiyama, take the Nozawa Onsen Liner bus (approx. 20 minutes) to Nozawa Onsen Chuo Bus Station. Bus tickets purchased via vending machine at the station — cannot be pre-booked.

From Narita: Take the Narita Express (NEX) to Tokyo Station first
From Haneda: Monorail or Airport Limousine to Tokyo Station

Option 3 — Private Taxi

Door-to-door service from the airport directly to your accommodation. Must be pre-booked well in advance. Drivers will meet you in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your reservation name. Ideal for groups or those with significant ski gear.

Arriving in Nozawa Onsen

Buses arrive at the Nozawa Onsen Chuo Bus Station. The village streets are very narrow — most buses and cars cannot drive through the main village. Most properties can offer a pick-up from the Chuo Bus Station if you provide your arrival details in advance. Please advise Travelplan of your arrival details if arranging your own transport.

Getting to the Gondolas

To Hikage: Take the steps to the moving walkway ("Yu Road"), then a 7-minute ride up to the Hikage ski area
To Nagasaka: Walk up, or take the free shuttle bus from the Chuo Bus Terminal (see schedule online)
Free public snowmobile shuttle (Naski Go): Runs every 15 minutes between Hikage (in front of the Hikage Information Centre) and Nagasaka (in front of The Craft Room café) — free of charge

Luggage Courier Service

Japan's luggage forwarding services are extremely convenient for ski travellers. Ship your luggage (including ski bags) from the airport directly to your accommodation — you travel light on the train.

Black Cat (Yamato Transport): Most widely used service, available at airports, hotels, and convenience stores. Ski gear can also be shipped.
Sagawa Express & Japan Post (Yu-Pack): Also offer reliable door-to-door courier services.
Typical delivery time: Usually overnight from Tokyo to Nozawa Onsen (allow more time in peak winter)
Book 2–3 days before departure for airport returns
Tip: Ship your ski bag a day ahead so you can travel comfortably on the Shinkansen.

Driving in Japan

Driving in Japan requires either a valid Japanese licence or a valid International Driver's Permit plus your current Australian state driver's licence. Driving in and around Japanese ski resorts is not recommended if you are not confident driving in heavy snow and on icy mountain roads.

IMPORTANT — Drink Driving Laws: Japan has a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol when driving. Penalties are extremely harsh — fines can exceed ¥1,000,000. For more information, visit the Smart Traveller website.

Walking Around the Village

Walking around without proper snow/ice grip footwear can be hazardous due to slippery conditions. Clip-on boot studs are available locally and are highly recommended. Use resort shuttles where possible.

NAVIGATION

Maps

⚠️ The Ski Trail Map links to the official map image on en.nozawaski.com, which is labelled as the 2020–21 edition. Check for an updated 2026–27 map before the season.

Use the maps below to help plan your days on and off the mountain.

Nozawa Onsen Ski Trail Map Nozawa Onsen Town & Village Map

Mountain Info

Trail Guide Ski Slopes & Lift Status Live Cams

ON THE MOUNTAIN

Lift Passes

Pre-Purchase with Travelplan

2–10 day lift passes can be pre-purchased with Travelplan, with Flex Days included.

Flex Day Validity

2 of 3 days

4 of 6 days

6 of 9 days

9 of 13 days

Season

Regular Season: 19 December – 28 March

Early and Spring reduced passes are also available.

Age Categories

Adult: 16–59 years
Child: 5–15 years
Under 6: Free
Senior: 60+ years

IC passes are issued. To use your pass: place it in the left-side pocket of your jacket for automatic scanning.

EQUIPMENT

Rentals

Nozawa Onsen has several excellent rental shops catering to all budgets and ability levels, from beginner entry sets to high-performance powder gear.

Recommended Rental Shops

Salomon Station — Official Resort Rental Shop

Located directly opposite the Nagasaka Gondola. Excellent range of skis, snowboards, and gear. Retail shop also on-site.

Haus St Anton — Hikage Base Area

Located at the base of the Hikage ski slope. Extremely convenient — right next to the ski school, day care, and the Hikage Information Centre. Also has a great café.

Tips for Renting

All rental stores require in-person fitting on arrival
Haus St Anton provides free overnight gear storage so you don't need to carry equipment back to your accommodation
Helmets and goggles can be rented at most shops — bring your own goggles if possible
Speak with your Travelplan consultant to arrange equipment at the most convenient shop for your accommodation

LESSONS

Snow School

Whether you're a first-timer or looking to develop specific skills, Nozawa Onsen's English-speaking snow schools have you covered. Lessons are based primarily at the Hikage area, which has dedicated family and beginner facilities including the Kids Park.

Canyons Snowsports (Recommended by Travelplan)

Canyons Snowsports offers a comprehensive range of private and group lessons with professional, multilingual instructors. Speak with your Travelplan consultant to pre-book.

Lesson Options

Adults

Private lessons: Tailored 1-on-1 or small group (charged per instructor, up to 6 participants of similar level)
Group lessons: Available for beginner to advanced levels

Children

Intro to Snow (Under 7): Specialised 1-hour private lesson for young children — equipment familiarisation and building confidence. Highly recommended for first-timers.
Group Lessons (Ages 7–14): Ski and snowboard group lessons. Available from late December to late March. Minimum 2 participants required.
Infant Ski Lessons (Ages 4–6): Ski only.
Kids Camps: 3 or 4-day intensive camps for children aged 7–14. Available late December to late March. Full-day programs with supervised lunch included.

• For group lessons, children must be able to start, stop, and turn independently. Absolute beginners are placed in private lessons first.

• All participants should have valid lift passes and appropriate gear before their lesson.

• Advanced booking is strongly recommended — spots fill quickly during New Year and January.

• It is strongly recommended all participants hold travel insurance covering snow sports.

Children's Facilities — Hikage Area

Hikage Kids Park

Safe, exciting snow play area at the base of the Hikage area. Features tubing lanes, sled courses, jumping castles, and magic carpet lifts for first-time skiers. Easily accessible from the village via the Yu Road conveyor walkway, or by Naski Go free snowmobile shuttle from Nagasaka.

Naski Room

Free rest room for kids on the 2nd floor of the Hikage Trail Information Centre — a warm, comfortable space for families.

Nagasaka Kids Park

Smaller park closer to the Nagasaka gondola, perfect for younger children and first-timers in that area.

Uenotaira Family Area

Wide, gentle slopes ideal for families skiing together in a relaxed environment.

Day Care at Hikage Centre

Full day care for children aged 1–6 years with fully qualified childcare workers. Note: centre closes 12:00–13:00 daily. Reservations essential.

What to Bring — Children's Checklist

Helmet (highly recommended)
Goggles
High SPF sunscreen
Neck warmer, beanie, warm gloves or mittens
Warm thermals under jacket and pants
Waterproof jacket and pants
Correctly fitted ski boots and skis (available to rent at resort)

Backcountry Guiding

For experienced riders interested in exploring off-piste terrain, Canyons Snowsports also offers certified backcountry guides. Off-piste areas are unpatrolled — always carry appropriate safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe) and go with a qualified guide.

EXPLORE

Activities

Lanterns and bonfire flames at the Dosojin Fire Festival, held every 15 January

Snowshoeing through a quiet, snow-covered beech forest

On the Mountain

Skiing & Snowboarding

Over 50km of marked trails across 5 key zones. Terrain for every ability — from Uenotaira's wide open plateau to Yamabiko's steep powder fields. The longest run stretches 10km. Maximum gradient: 39 degrees.

Terrain Park

Located in the Hikage area. Features jumps, rails, boxes, and a half-pipe. Something for everyone from park beginners to seasoned freestyle riders.

Zip Sky Ride

Fly across the Hikage ski slopes down to the Kids Park on this exhilarating zip line. Pre-booking essential. Book: en.nozawaski.com

Snowshoeing Tours

Guided snowshoe tours through the forest and mountain terrain. A fantastic way to experience the backcountry without skiing.

Night Skiing

Available on the Nagasaka slope. On New Year's Eve, night skiing runs until 11:30pm, followed by the countdown and a fireworks display.

Naski Go Snowmobile Shuttle

Free public snowmobile shuttle running every 15 minutes between Hikage and Nagasaka — part transport, part experience!

Off the Slopes — Village & Cultural Activities

🌊

Onsen Bathing (Free Public Hot Springs)

Nozawa Onsen has 13 free public onsen (soto-yu), each with a unique character, maintained for centuries by local volunteers. THE quintessential Nozawa experience. See the Onsen & Wellness section for full details.

🎉

Ski Resort Opening Festivities — 19 December 2026

Opening celebration for the 2026–27 season, from 11:00am in the Yamabiko area.

🎆

New Year's Eve Night Ski & Fireworks — 31 December 2026

Night skiing on the Nagasaka slope is extended until 11:30pm, followed by the New Year countdown and a fireworks display on the slope above.

🍶

New Year Sake Service — 1 January 2027

The resort taps a barrel of local sake at 11:00am on the Uenotaira course, in front of the Hikage gondola off-load station.

🔥

Dosojin Fire Festival — 15 January 2027

One of Japan's most spectacular and nationally recognised winter festivals. For safety reasons, access to the Fire Ceremony is restricted to village residents and guests staying overnight in Nozawaonsen Village, and an admission ticket is required.

⛏️

Spring Mountain Festival — 27 March 2027

Teams of three (at least one female member) compete in a snow-digging contest from 9:30am in the Yamabiko area. First 15 teams to apply on the day are accepted.

🐒

Snow Monkey Day Trip

Visit the Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) bathing in natural hot spring pools at Jigokudani Monkey Park, approximately 40–50 minutes from Nozawa Onsen. A truly unique wildlife experience.

🎿

Japan Ski Museum

Located in the village, the museum showcases the history of skiing in Japan and Nozawa Onsen's special relationship with St. Anton, Austria. Open during winter season.

🥚

Onsen Cooking at Ogama

Visit the Ogama hot spring (water temperature: 93°C) to observe locals cooking vegetables and eggs in the natural hot spring — a fascinating cultural tradition.

🏵️

Village Stamp Rally

A self-guided scavenger hunt featuring 27 points of interest across the village. Collect stamps to learn about local history and earn prizes like traditional onsen towels.

🎨

Traditional Craft Stores

Explore Akebi vine craftwork (baskets, the traditional hatoguruma dove cart toy), local ceramics, and handmade souvenirs.

⛩️

Temples & Shrines

Yuzawa Shrine: Beautiful shrine at the top of the village. Kenmei-ji Temple: Birthplace of the famous Nozawana pickle.

🖼️

Oborozukiyo no Yakata Museum

Local art, photography, and exhibits on the village's famous Dosojin Fire Festival.

🎭

The Dojo

Indoor rock climbing wall, community events, cinema screenings, and language exchange sessions. A great option for a rest day.

Day Trips from Nozawa Onsen

Jigokudani Monkey Park (Snow Monkeys)

~40–50 min

Zenkoji Temple, Nagano City

~60–70 min (one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples)

Matsumoto Castle Town

~90 min (historic "black castle", vibrant city)

Obuse

~60 min (art-focused historic town, famous for chestnuts)

Lake Nojiri

~30 min (scenic lake)

Iiyama City

~20 min (closest regional centre)

FOOD & DRINK

Dining

"Oishii" is the Japanese word for delicious — and there are many oishii options in Nozawa Onsen. From traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine, the village punches well above its size. Izakaya (Japanese bars serving small dishes with drinks) are a village staple — some may only accept cash and don't take bookings.

Try These Local Specialties

Nozawana

Pickled leafy green vegetable — the official mascot of Nozawa Onsen. Unique to the village.

Shinshu Soba

Nagano's famous buckwheat noodles.

Oyaki

Savory stuffed dumplings — a Nagano classic.

Onsen Eggs (Onsen Tamago)

Eggs slow-cooked in the natural hot springs — silky, unique.

Local Sake, Craft Beer & Gin

Brewed with natural spring water from the mountains.

At the end of the meal, say "Gochisosama" — a polite expression of thanks for the meal.

On-Mountain Dining

Rest House Yamabiko

Uenotaira

The largest mountain restaurant — famous for made-to-order beef steak with Nozawana rice. Panoramic views.

Kitchen SEAVUS

Nagasaka Top Station

Situated in the old Nagasaka gondola top station. Specialises in wood-fired pizzas.

Cafe & Rest Olive

Hikage Area

Hearty lunches and spicy Thai green curry. A favourite for warming up mid-mountain.

Panorama House Buna

Paradise Course

Home-made curries, Oyaki dumplings, and valley views. Casual and popular.

Utopia Shokudo

Challenge/Utopia Course

Large, group-friendly. Known for chicken burgers and Japanese comfort food.

Village Restaurants & Cafes

Hardings

Excellent breakfast and dinner within Kawamotoya. Mediterranean-influenced.

Trattoria Bivacco

Italian cuisine focusing on local Nagano ingredients and natural wines. Reservations essential.

Winterland Taproom & Gyoza Bar

Gyoza, craft beer, and izakaya-style dishes. Popular après-ski spot.

Hamachozushi

Fresh sushi and sashimi. Tel: +81 269-85-2591.

Tengu Sushi

Traditional Edomae-style sushi. Reservations essential (up to 90 days in advance via Stay Nozawa).

Billiken Shokudo

Nozawa favourite — homemade pizzas, large pasta dishes, and Japanese dishes. Tel: +81 269-85-2078.

Genki Burger

Japanese-Australian fusion burgers and side dishes. Online orders available.

Pig and Barrel

Relaxed bar on the main street, known for cocktails and drinks.

Gochisou Pizza Bar

Neapolitan-style pizzas with Japanese twists.

Jiyu Gekijo

Unique communal barbecue experience in a former entertainment theatre — grill your own skewers.

Sakai / Tsukushinbo

Highly regarded authentic izakayas — local iwana (char) fish and sashimi at Tsukushinbo.

Cafes, Bakeries & Coffee

The Craft Room

At the base of the Nagasaka Gondola. Bagels, muffins, smashed avocado on toast, craft beers. Perfect pre-ski breakfast or post-ski drinks.

Gondola Cafe

Next to the Nagasaka Gondola station. Relaxed vibe, excellent coffee.

Gondola Coffee

Operating out of an old gondola cabin on Oyu-Dori Street, opposite the famous Oyu onsen. Widely regarded as some of the best coffee in the village.

Haus St. Anton Jam Factory & Café

Farm-to-table philosophy, homemade jams, fresh juices. At the base of the Hikage slope.

Akari House Swiss Bakery

Fresh breads, pastries, and Italian-style pizzas.

Bookings are highly recommended, especially for larger groups and during peak periods (New Year, Dosojin Fire Festival). A guide to all restaurants and bars is available at the resort information centre.

Dining Website Portals

Stay Nozawa — Bar & Restaurant Guide

Village restaurant and bar directory, plus online bookings for selected venues (incl. Tengu Sushi).

www.staynozawa.com/discover/bar-restaurant-guide

Nozawa Holidays — Restaurants & Bars

Local guide to village restaurants, izakaya and bars.

www.nozawaholidays.com/restaurants-bars

Mountain Restaurants (Official Resort)

Official list of on-mountain restaurants and rest houses.

en.nozawaski.com/the-mountain/mountain-facilities/restaurants

Mountainwatch — Nozawa Onsen Dining

Dining and après recommendations for Nozawa Onsen.

mountainwatch.travel/japan/nozawa-onsen/dining

Tabelog (Nagano, English)

Japan's largest restaurant review site — search "Nozawa Onsen" for ratings and hours.

tabelog.com/en/nagano

APRÈS-SKI

Après & Nightlife

When the slopes close, Nozawa Onsen's laneways come alive. The village has a compact, walkable après scene with something for everyone — from craft beers and gyoza at the gondola base to karaoke and sake shots in the village alleyways.

During peak winter, the village also comes alive with:

Yatai (food stalls) serving skewers, oyaki, sake, and local snacks on illuminated streets
Onsen steam drifting through the cobblestone alleys
Lively family-run izakayas

Best Après & Bar Spots

The Craft Room Taproom

Craft beers, chicken wings, and a great atmosphere at the gondola base. The after-ski hub.

Winterland Taproom & Gyoza Bar

Top après destination — draft beers, happy hour, gyoza.

Nozawa Onsen Distillery

Spirits crafted with local mountain botanicals. A unique tasting experience.

Pig and Barrel

Cocktail bar on the main street.

Local Izakayas

Many family-run izakayas throughout the village — ask locals for their favourites.

Karaoke

Karaoke rooms available in the village. A favourite evening activity.

Some bars and izakayas only accept cash. Many are small — if a place appears full, it's worth asking as turnover is often quick.

HOT SPRINGS & WELLNESS

Onsen & Wellness

Oyu, Nozawa Onsen's landmark wooden public bathhouse, under fresh snow

Nozawa Onsen is one of Japan's most famous hot spring villages and one of the few ski resorts on earth where the hot springs are completely free and open to the public. The 13 public soto-yu (outdoor hot spring baths) are maintained by local volunteers and have been central to village life for centuries. Bathing here is not a tourist activity — it is a daily ritual that defines the community.

Onsen Etiquette — Important

•All bathers must wash thoroughly at the washing stations before entering any bath
•No swimwear permitted in the free public soto-yu (nudity is standard)
•No towels in the water (small towels for washing only)
•No soap, shampoo, or lotions in the main bath
•Keep noise to a minimum — these are communal, peaceful spaces
•Tattoos: Some facilities may restrict access for tattooed visitors. Check in advance.
•Children are welcome, but must be supervised at all times

Recommended Public Onsen (Soto-Yu) — Free

Oyu (Central Village)

THE most iconic onsen in Nozawa Onsen — beautiful traditional wooden architecture and a central location. Best for first-time bathers wanting the classic Nozawa experience.

Shin-yu

Known for higher water temperature and mineral-rich water. For those who like a steamy, powerful soak.

Kawahara-yu

Smaller and less busy — a peaceful option away from the main crowd.

Asagama-no-Yu

A more modern, spacious bathhouse with indoor and outdoor baths. Slightly cooler temperatures — ideal for families. Hours: approx. 10:00–20:00. Entry fee: approx. ¥500.

Plus 9 additional free public onsen distributed throughout the village — part of what makes Nozawa Onsen so special.

SPArena (Modern Spa Facility)

A more modern, contemporary spa experience with pools, saunas, and mixed-gender bathing areas where swimwear is required. A great option for families or those preferring a less traditional format. Check current hours and pricing at the resort information centre.

Onsen Cooking at Ogama

The Ogama hot spring reaches 93°C — hot enough to cook! Locals use it to boil vegetables and eggs. Visitors can observe this fascinating tradition, and some bathhouses have small "egg onsen" pools where you can cook your own eggs. A uniquely Japanese experience.

Massage & Wellness

After a day on the mountain, recover with traditional Japanese therapies:

Shiatsu & Sports Massage Studios

Small local studios around the village specialising in skier recovery — focus on legs, lower back, and hips. Price range: ¥5,000–¥9,000 for 30–60 minutes. Booking recommended during peak winter.

Ryokan Spa Treatments

Some traditional ryokan (inns) offer in-house massage services including relaxation massage, gentle shiatsu, and aroma therapy treatments. A quiet, private option after your onsen soak.

ESSENTIALS

Groceries & Shopping

Supermarkets

A-Coop Miyuki

The closest large supermarket to Nozawa Onsen — approximately 15 minutes drive. Operated by JA (Japan Agriculture), with excellent fresh fruit, vegetables, and a small bakery inside. Open daily 9:30–20:00 (occasionally closed Wednesdays).

Tsuruya Supermarket (central Iiyama)

Large, modern supermarket with a wide selection. Slightly cheaper than A-Coop.

Delicia Supermarket (central Iiyama)

Another large option in Iiyama. Good for bulk shopping.

Uoyasu

Small local supermarket within Nozawa Onsen — convenient for daily essentials.

Convenience Stores

A small 7-Eleven operates in Nozawa Onsen during winter season. Several small convenience stores sell basic groceries, beer, wine, and spirits.

Pharmacies

Two small pharmacies operate in the main village area of Nozawa Onsen, generally Monday to Friday. They sell over-the-counter medications and can fill prescriptions. For a larger range, head to Iiyama — American Drug and larger pharmacy chains are located there.

Craft & Souvenir Shopping

The village has a wonderful range of artisan shops and souvenir stores:

Local Akebi vine crafts (baskets, the traditional hatoguruma dove cart)
Nozawana pickled goods — take some home!
Local sake, gin, and craft beer
Traditional Japanese ceramics and glassware
Onsen-related products (salts, soaps, towels)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Other Info

Cash & Currency

Japan remains a cash-forward country, especially in smaller villages like Nozawa Onsen. Not all restaurants and shops accept cards — carry cash for daily use.

Recommended denominations: ¥1,000 and ¥5,000 notes
Most reliable ATMs: 7-Eleven (Nozawa Onsen's 7-Eleven operates in winter only) and Japan Post
Note: International cards may not work at all ATMs — withdraw cash at the airport or a major city if unsure

Water & Electricity

Tap water: Safe to drink throughout Japan, including Nozawa Onsen
Electricity: 100V AC 50Hz. Plugs are Type A (2 flat parallel pins). You will need an adaptor — pack one before you go. Check device labels for voltage compatibility.

Phones & WiFi

4G/5G mobile phones work in Japan with global roaming activated. Check with your provider before travel.
WiFi: Many places in Nozawa Onsen offer free WiFi or WiFi for a small fee.
Note: Talking on a mobile phone while on public transport is generally prohibited in Japan.

Mountain & Village Safety

•Off-piste areas are unpatrolled — enter at your own risk. Always carry appropriate backcountry equipment (avalanche beacon, shovel, probe) and go with a qualified guide.

•Footpaths are often uneven and icy. Appropriate footwear with ice grips is essential.

•Avoid walking on roads — vehicles can have difficulty stopping in icy conditions.

•Skiing or snowboarding down roads or footpaths is against local rules and is unsafe.

•Snow on roofs and icicles from eaves can drop suddenly — avoid standing close to building edges.

•Always follow instructions from ski patrol.

Emergency Numbers

🚔 Police: 110

🚒 Fire & Ambulance: 119

🌍 Japan Visitor Hotline (English, 24hrs/365): +81-50-3816-2787

Culture & Etiquette

Always remove your shoes when entering a private home, pension, or traditional accommodation. Do not step on the genkan (entrance mat) with shoes.
Do not eat while standing or walking in the street.
Never blow your nose in a restaurant — use the restroom.
It is impolite to be loud or disorderly in public places, onsens, and restaurants.
Try speaking some basic Japanese phrases — locals appreciate the effort.

Japanese Language Phrases

Japanese	English
Ohayo-o gozaimasu	Good morning
Konnichiwa	Good afternoon
Konbanwa	Good evening
Oyasumi nasai	Good night
Sayonara	Goodbye
Kudasai	Please give me
Arigato	Thank you
Doumo arigato gozaimasu	Thank you very much
Gochisousamadeshita	Thank you for the meal
Hajimemashite	Nice to meet you
Toire wa doko desu ka?	Where is the toilet?
Sumimasen	Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you
Gomennasai	I'm sorry
Wakarimasen	I don't understand
Ikura desu ka?	How much is it?
Watashi wa ___ desu	My name is ___