Nozawa Onsen
A working farming village turned hot spring ski resort that hasn't over-commercialised itself. Thirteen free public baths (soto-yu) are owned by local families and maintained by the community since the 8th century. Nozawa is also Japan's finest traditional pickled vegetable (nozawana-zuke) source, sold everywhere in the village.
1–2 days recommended
Free (public baths)
13 public baths (sotoyu): 5:00–23:00; ski season: Dec–Mar; summer: Jun–Oct for hiking and mountain biking
December–March (ski), Summer hiking, Autumn foliage
Bus from Iiyama Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen), about 25 min, ¥600
Location
Why Visit
- 1
13 free public baths — maintained by local families for centuries, no admission fee
- 2
The Dosojin Fire Festival (January 15) burns a massive straw tower in a chaotic village ritual
- 3
Nozawana pickles (leafy greens in brine) are a Nagano delicacy produced only here
Local Tips
All 13 public baths are free to use — the Ogama (the largest and hottest) is the famous one but also truly scalding; Kambayashi is more accessible for first-timers. The ski area has consistent deep snow and a charming village feel. The Dosojin Fire Festival (January 15) is one of Japan's most intense matsuri — spectacular and wild.
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