When most people think of Japan, their minds might wander to the bustling streets of Tokyo, the serene temples of Kyoto, or the hidden culinary gems tucked away in train stations. But Japan has so much more to offer, like pristine powder snow so iconic it has earned the nickname “Japow.” If you’re dreaming of experiencing Japan in a way that blends adventure, culture, and relaxation, Nozawa Onsen might just be the answer.
Where is Nozawa Onsen?
Image Credit: Nozawa Kanko
Surrounded by mountains and forests – Nozawa Onsen Village is located in northern Nagano Prefecture, Japan, near the ridge of Mt. Kenashi. It borders Iiyama City to the west, Kijimadaira Village to the south, and Sakae Village to the north and east.
The History of Nozawa Onsen
Image Credit: Mountain Watch
Nozawa Onsen Village has a rich history dating back to 1272 when it was known as “Yuyama Village,” meaning “hot spring mountain village.” Local legend credits the discovery of its hot springs to the monk Gyoki in the 8th century. By the Edo period, the village already hosted 24 inns for visitors seeking hot spring cures.
During the Meiji Restoration in 1870, the village welcomed nearly 25,000 guests over five years, solidifying its reputation as a popular onsen destination. In the early 20th century, skiing was introduced, with the Nozawa Onsen Ski Club forming in 1918, turning the village into a dual attraction for both hot springs and skiing enthusiasts. Improved rail access spurred further growth, enabling the village to host major ski competitions.
Finally, in 1955, Nozawa Onsen officially became a village, blending its ancient onsen culture with modern tourism infrastructure, creating the vibrant destination it is today.
Nagano Winter Olympics (1998)
What is Nozawa Onsen Famous For?
Nozawa Onsen is a charming village renowned for its rich blend of natural beauty, traditional culture, and thrilling outdoor activities. From world-class ski slopes to rejuvenating onsens and authentic Japanese experiences, this picturesque destination offers something for everyone.
World-Class Ski Slopes
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Nozawa Onsen’s ski and snowboarding area, located on Mt. Kenashi-yama, is one of Japan’s largest and most famous. With over 50 kilometers of trails, it offers something for everyone—gentle slopes for beginners and challenging runs with jumps for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Starting at an elevation of 1,685 meters, the ski area spans 297 hectares of terrain.
For thrill-seekers, there’s a terrain park featuring jumps, rails, boxes, and even an 80-meter pipe for freestyle fun. The area boasts 23 chair lifts and two gondolas, making it quick and easy to get back to the top after enjoying one of the 20 trails, including the longest run at 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The ski season typically runs from December (and sometimes mid-November) to early May, offering soft, natural snow throughout—no artificial snow needed. For a truly immersive experience, consider booking your stay with Shaper Retreats, where you can enjoy premium accommodations and curated activities to add to your Nozawa Onsen adventure.
Traditional Japanese Onsens
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Nozawa Onsen is home to over 30 natural hot springs that supply mineral-rich water to 13 free public baths, called sotoyus, as well as many ski resorts and ryokans (traditional inns) in the area. Each sotoyu features water from a unique spring source, so every bath has its own distinct character.
Known as the heart of Japan’s onsen culture, Nozawa Onsen is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day on the slopes. It’s easy to see why onsens hold such a special place in Japanese tradition.
Authentic Japanese Culture & Cuisine
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
On clear days, the top of Mt. Kenashi-yama offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, Kogen National Park, and the Japanese Alps. However, the charm of Nozawa Onsen doesn’t end with its scenic vistas.
The village itself is steeped in traditional Japanese culture, with narrow streets lined with historic onsens and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Despite its popularity, Nozawa Onsen has retained its small-town charm, with only 5,000 permanent residents.
The main street is a hub of activity, featuring shops, restaurants, bars, and street vendors offering local delicacies, such as dishes made with Nozawa-na—a leafy vegetable similar to spinach. The village also has several museums, including the Japan Ski Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of skiing in the area and the influence of Austrian pioneers like Major Theodor von Lerch and Hannes Schneider.
The Perfect Balance of Adventure and Rejuvenation
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Tucked away in the Japanese Alps, Nozawa Onsen offers a unique blend of authenticity and charm that sets it apart from other destinations. Unlike the sprawling commercial resorts of Hokkaido or the vast, spread-out terrain of Hakuba, Nozawa remains a working farming village with deep-rooted traditions.
Ski through its enchanting tree-lined slopes blanketed in pristine powder, then take a short stroll to one of the 13 traditional onsens that are central to village life. These hot springs are so integral that many locals forgo showers at home, preferring instead to soak in their soothing, mineral-rich waters. With everything within easy walking distance, from cosy family-run restaurants and intimate izakayas to the welcoming warmth of the onsens, Nozawa Onsen perfectly balances thrilling adventure with peaceful relaxation, offering an experience that is both invigorating and deeply restorative.
Discover Nozawa Onsen with Shaper Retreats
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Tucked away in the breathtaking Japanese Alps, Nozawa Onsen offers the perfect setting for Shaper Retreats’ Ski Retreat in Japan experience. Unlike the bustling commercial resorts of Hokkaido or the vast expanses of Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen retains its authentic charm as a working farming village steeped in tradition. Here, modern comforts meet timeless culture to create an unforgettable retreat experience.
At Shaper Retreats, your days are thoughtfully planned to balance adventure, wellness, and cultural immersion. From expertly guided ski sessions to restorative yoga and the healing warmth of onsens, every moment of the retreat is designed to leave you invigorated. Below is a breakdown of the enriching itinerary you’ll enjoy during this week-long alpine escape.
The Shape of Your Retreat: Daily Highlights
Day 1: Arrival to Paradise
Arrive in Nozawa and check in by 2 pm to a warm welcome from your host.
Receive a retreat itinerary briefing and helpful local tips.
Relax with a soak in the local onsens or book an optional massage.
Enjoy an introductory yoga session at Shizen Yoga Studio with Rowie.
Cap the day with a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant and free time to explore onsens or local craft beer bars.
Day 2: First Day on the Slopes
Start your day with coffee, tea, and a hearty breakfast.
Begin your ski journey with a resort tour and skill assessment by coach Gonçalo.
Ski at your leisure with free time on the slopes.
Wind down with a restorative yoga session focusing on relaxation and recovery.
Evening free time to savour Nozawa’s culinary delights or book a massage.
Day 3: Skill Refinement
Morning coffee and tea, followed by a hearty breakfast and pre-ski briefing.
Participate in a coaching session to refine your technique and push your limits.
Enjoy more free time on the slopes.
Attend a video analysis session with personal feedback to improve your ski technique.
Spend your evening exploring Nozawa’s food scene or relaxing in a hot spring.
Day 4: Applying New Skills
Morning breakfast and pre-ski session discussions.
Continue advancing your skills during the third coaching session.
Afternoon options include relaxing in an onsen, booking a massage, or joining a cultural activity.
Finish the day with a group dinner at a traditional izakaya.
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Day 5: Adventure and Exploration
Begin with coffee, breakfast, and a morning briefing.
Choose your adventure: explore a neighbouring ski resort or join a snow monkey tour.
Return for another restorative yoga session to ease your muscles.
Spend your evening soaking in the village atmosphere or enjoying Nozawa’s vibrant nightlife.
Day 6: Final Coaching and Farewell
Take your last coaching session to test your refined skills.
Enjoy free time skiing on the slopes one last time.
Celebrate with a farewell dinner to reflect on the week’s adventures and newfound connections.
Day 7: Departure
Start the day with a final group breakfast and retreat debrief.
Soak in the onsens one last time before checking out by 11 am.
Shaper Retreat Accommodation
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Shaper Retreats villas offer cosy double rooms designed for comfort and relaxation after a thrilling day on the slopes. Single-room options are available at an extra cost, subject to availability. Enjoy modern amenities like Wi-Fi to stay connected during your stay. Depending on the dates of your retreat, you’ll experience one of our two unique accommodations.
Image Credit: Shaper Retreats
Each Japanese villa offers a distinct experience, but both are just a 5-minute walk from the ski lifts, the vibrant town centre, and local hot spring baths. Whichever accommodation you stay in, you’ll enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere that perfectly balances adventure and relaxation. The shared villa setting is ideal for fostering connections with fellow guests, while also providing plenty of spaces for your personal downtime.
The Birth of Shaper Retreats
After years of traveling the globe as a certified ski instructor—teaching and exploring in destinations like Andorra, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Argentina—Gonçalo Cunha found a deeper connection in Nozawa Onsen. It was here that everything clicked: the perfect balance of waking up to fresh powder, flowing through yoga sessions, soaking in ancient onsens, and embracing the rich traditions of Japanese culture. Inspired by this harmony, Gonçalo founded Shaper Retreats to share his vision with others.
With a mission to go beyond typical ski trips, Gonçalo created Shaper Retreats as a way to offer transformative experiences that blend adventure, wellness, and cultural immersion. His goal is to leave guests feeling alive, rejuvenated, and deeply connected—not just to the mountains but to themselves and the vibrant local traditions that make Nozawa so unique.
Why Choose Shaper Retreats for your next Ski Trip?
Picture yourself starting the day in a Japanese villa with all the modern comforts. The accommodation is cosy and welcoming, with shared spaces perfect for connecting with like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends, the retreat’s intimate and social vibe makes it easy to bond with fellow skiers and snowboarders who share your love for adventure, culture, and relaxation.
On the slopes, the experience is all about you. Personalised coaching sessions cater to every level, whether you’re strapping on skis for the first time, fine-tuning your technique, or seeking hidden powder stashes with a guide who knows every corner of the mountain. Nozawa’s terrain offers something for everyone, with steep runs, moguls, tree skiing, and pristine mellow fields, making it ideal for all abilities.
When lunchtime arrives, the resort’s culinary options are as impressive as the skiing itself. Warm up with a steaming bowl of udon soup, indulge in crispy tempura, or savour Japan’s famed wagyu beef. And of course, the classic katsu curry, a skier’s favourite, is hearty enough to fuel you through the afternoon.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, the retreat shifts its focus to recovery and relaxation. Apres-ski yoga sessions are a highlight, designed to stretch out sore muscles and leave you refreshed for another day of adventure. There is nothing quite like unwinding on your mat as the sun sets behind snow-covered peaks.
And then, it is time to soak. Nozawa’s 13 traditional onsens are more than just hot springs. They are an immersion into Japanese culture. Following local etiquette, you will slip into the soothing, mineral-rich waters that have been part of village life for generations. It is the perfect way to ease tension and reflect on the day.
Evenings are yours to explore Nozawa’s vibrant food scene. Wander the walkable streets to discover family-run restaurants serving everything from fresh sushi to hearty ramen, or pop into a cosy izakaya for a few sakes with new friends. When the night draws to a close, return to the villa, where everything is thoughtfully arranged to ensure a seamless and relaxing end to your day.
This isn’t just a ski holiday. It is a curated experience that combines the thrill of the slopes with the richness of Japanese culture and the camaraderie of a shared adventure. Every detail has been crafted to make your time in Nozawa unforgettable.
A Special Offer for Japan Nakama Readers
As part of the Japan Nakama community, we are thrilled to offer an exclusive 15% discount on your retreat (double room). Use the code NAKAMA15 when booking your spot and embark on an unforgettable journey.
Rediscover Travel in Japan’s Winter Wonderland
Japan isn’t just a destination. It is an experience. With Shaper Retreats, you will discover this incredible country through a fresh perspective, blending adventure, relaxation, and culture into one transformative journey.
Book your retreat today or reach out with any questions. We are here to make your dream Japan ski adventure a reality.
Stay Connected with Jetpac eSIM During Your Nozawa Adventure
When skiing through the breathtaking slopes of Nozawa Onsen or soaking in its rejuvenating onsens, staying connected is key to making the most of your trip. With Jetpac eSIM, you can enjoy seamless, reliable internet access throughout your adventure. Whether you’re sharing stunning mountain views, navigating the village’s charming streets, or coordinating with your group at Shaper Retreats, Jetpac eSIM ensures you’re always connected without the hassle of traditional SIM cards.
Jetpac eSIM is quick to set up and works straight from your smartphone, so you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics. It’s the perfect travel companion for staying in touch, accessing maps, or streaming your favorite music to fuel your ski runs. Don’t let connectivity issues slow you down—gear up with Jetpac eSIM for an unforgettable Nozawa experience!
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