Nozawa Onsen is a quaint mountain village north of Nagano City with an onsen (hot springs) that, according to legend, dates back to the 8th century. The village center is a collection of ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), minshuku (slightly more rustic inns) and souvenir shops situated at the base of the Nozawa ski resort. The mineral water from the hot springs in Nozawa is unrivaled, with over 30 natural springs supplying the ryokans as well as 13 public baths. Of these, Oyu, with it's traditional wooden architecture, represents the best of Nozawa's Onsen culture. Nozawa Onsen is also known for the Ogama spring where locals go to cook vegetables in the hot onsen water.

The ski area is one of the largest in the country with over 50 kms of trails suited to everyone from beginners to more advanced skiers and snowboarders. The top of the mountain has stunning panoramic views of the surrounding national parks and Japanese Alps.

For more detailed information, go to www.ski-nozawa-onsen.com