What is Nozawa Onsen?
Nozawa Onsen is one of Japan’s leading hot spring areas, located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture.
Its history dates back more than 1,300 years, and it has long been cherished as a traditional "toji" (hot-spring healing) destination.
The town has 13 public baths (soto-yu) scattered around that are free to use, and a culture of "yu-nakama" — locals and visitors enjoying the baths together — is well established.
In winter it is also famous as a ski resort, making it a special destination where abundant nature, hot springs, and traditional streetscapes harmonize.
Highlights of Nozawa Onsen
1. Touring the public baths
The biggest attraction of Nozawa Onsen is its 13 public baths located throughout the town.
Each public bath is maintained by local residents and is free to use.
Here are a few particularly recommended baths:
- Oyu: The symbolic bath of Nozawa Onsen, a beautiful wooden bathhouse.
- Kuma no Tearai-yu: Known for its alkaline, silky water that is said to be good for the skin.
- Kawarayu: Located beside a small river, it has a charming, atmospheric setting.
When touring the public baths, it’s recommended to bring a towel and a small bar of soap.
2. Making onsen tamago (hot-spring eggs)
Nozawa Onsen’s Ogama is a hot spring area locals use to boil vegetables and eggs.
Tourists who want to try making onsen tamago can use the tourist egg-boiling cauldrons located near some public baths’ entrances (for example: Kuma no Tearai-yu, Matsuba no Yu, Juoudou no Yu, etc.).
You can enjoy warm, fluffy eggs with the scent of the hot springs.
3. Winter ski resort
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is attractive for its abundant snow quality and expansive courses.
There are a variety of runs for beginners to advanced skiers, so you can fully enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
After skiing, the ultimate relaxation awaits as you soak in the hot springs to soothe your body.
4. Birthplace of nozawana
Nozawa Onsen is also known as the birthplace of nozawana, a leafy green vegetable popular across Japan.
In the hot spring town you can find many shops selling fresh nozawana and pickles, which also make great souvenirs.
5. Traditional streetscape
The hot spring town, with its stone-paved streets and wooden buildings, preserves the classic scenery of old Japan.
It’s recommended to stroll around and sample local specialties.
What to enjoy by season
- Spring: Enjoy touring the public baths amid fresh greenery and pleasant weather.
- Summer: A cool respite from the heat, perfect for enjoying the hot springs and walks.
- Autumn: Bathing while surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage in the town.
- Winter: Warm both body and mind with the combination of skiing and hot springs.
Access information
Address
Nozawa Onsen-mura, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture
How to get there
- Train + Bus
- Direct bus from JR Iiyama Station: about 25 minutes.
- By car
- About 20 minutes from the Joshinetsu Expressway "Toyoda-Iiyama IC".
Parking
There are several paid parking lots around the hot spring town, but they can get crowded during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Recommended ways to enjoy Nozawa Onsen
1. Touring the public baths and making onsen eggs
It’s recommended to tour the public baths and enjoy making onsen tamago at the Ogama.
Early morning or late afternoon tends to be less crowded, so you can relax and take your time.
2. Winter skiing and hot springs
After skiing or snowboarding, soak in the hot springs to relax and recover.
There are also many rental shops for ski equipment in the hot spring town.
3. Taste local cuisine
In the hot spring town you can enjoy dishes using nozawana and locally brewed sake.
In particular, nozawana oyaki (filled dumplings) and Shinshu soba are must-tries.
Practical information for travelers
What to bring and what to wear
- Towel: Bring your own towel when visiting the public baths.
- Comfortable shoes: Many streets are stone-paved, so sneakers are recommended.
- Warm clothing: In winter there is a lot of snow, so prepare warm clothes and shoes with good traction.
Notes
- Etiquette at the public baths: The public baths are shared with local residents, so use them quietly and take your trash home.
- Crowding: The town can be busy, especially in winter and on weekends, so visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are the public baths free to use?
A. Yes, all of Nozawa Onsen’s public baths are free to use. However, donations are sometimes requested, so it’s a good idea to contribute as a gesture of appreciation.
Q2. Can I bring pets?
A. Some accommodations and walking areas allow pets, but pets are not allowed in the public baths.
Q3. When is the best season to visit Nozawa Onsen?
A. Nozawa Onsen is enjoyable in any season, but winter is especially popular for combining skiing with hot springs.
Nozawa Onsen is a soothing hot spring destination with a long toji culture, rich nature, and delicious local food.
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese scenery and experiences, it’s a spot we highly recommend visiting!
