What other travelers are saying about Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort
Visiting Nozawa Onsen from December 10 to 14 was an unforgettable experience. Early season skiing can be hit or miss, but this trip delivered something truly special. Day one gave us great conditions to kick things off, and then - boom - a half-meter snow dump on day two! The mountain closed, but honestly, it was pure magic. Snow falling all day, romantic walks through the village, and those serene moments staring out the window as everything turned white - it felt like a winter dream.
When the skies cleared, day three was sensational. Fresh powder, incredible runs, and that unbeatable feeling of carving through pristine snow. The resort team deserves a huge shoutout - the rental shop crew, lifties, ticket attendants, and instructors were all amazing. Friendly, helpful, and genuinely passionate about making your experience the best it can be.
Nozawa Onsen isn’t just a ski destination; it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the mountains, great hospitality, and a bunch of Japanese charm. Put this on your list - you’ll want to come back again and again.
Super fun resort with lots to explore! Very beginner friendly as you can take greens all the way down from the new gondola (through rinkai). There’s a lot of flat portions so you might get stuck a couple times if snowboarding. Take the opposite route for the famous skyline route (mostly reds).
It also seemed very family friendly with lots of activities for kids!
04-Jan-2025
First snowboarding experience ever.
Loved it enjoyed every moment there.
They have beginner to expert levels and area is quite large. All type of ski lovers can enjoy and learn skiing here.
We rented from Solomon located just in way to resort.
We rented two snowboard sets (7000yen each for 5hrs).
Fell down a-lot and tried many times and hope I got better.
The onsen village is also great place to explore near the ski resort. We strolled in evening in our way back.
Recommended and definitely going again.
We had a magical 5 days ⛷️ on this gorgeous mountain ✨plenty of trails for all levels, well-maintained runs, with plenty of sunshine and the heaviest snowfall.
The trails are well-marked with clear signage, and the gondolas and chairlifts make it easy to hop between trails and keep the momentum going. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced skier, there’s a perfect run for you. There are restaurants up the mountains too - special mention to Buna’s beef udon (absolute comfort in a bowl) and Popeye’s coffee on the Paradise trail - perfect motivation to ski down for me.
A huge shoutout to Anthony, our instructor, who was patient, empowering, and made learning so much fun.
What makes Nozawa extra special is that it’s owned by the city, not a corporate mega-ski chain, which gives it a unique charm and a welcoming, local feel. Can’t wait to be back!
I've snowboarded all over the East coast of America, Switzerland, Korea, and this is by far the best snow I've been on. It's been amazing here. Added bonus, Snow Monkeys, Onsen, and great food.
To reach Nozawa Onsen from Tokyo, you can take a bullet train (Shinkansen) to Iiyama Station and then a bus directly to Nozawa Onsen. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, making it relatively accessible for a weekend trip or longer stay.
Absolutely, there are several rental shops in Nozawa Onsen where you can rent all the necessary ski and snowboard equipment. It's a good idea to book your equipment in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get what you need.
Yes, Nozawa Onsen is very family-friendly, with ski schools offering lessons for children and slopes suitable for all ages. The village atmosphere, combined with a range of accommodation and dining options, makes it an excellent choice for families looking to experience both skiing and Japanese culture.
Yes, Nozawa Onsen offers ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, including beginners. There are English-speaking instructors available, making it convenient for international visitors to learn and enjoy their time on the slopes.
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is unique for its combination of high-quality ski slopes and traditional Japanese hot springs (onsen). The village has a rich cultural heritage, with charming streets, traditional inns, and public bathhouses, offering a distinctive experience that blends skiing with traditional Japanese hospitality and relaxation.
