Ski Nozawa Onsen
Sunday, August 16th, 2009
90 minutes drive from Nagano Station is the traditional Japanese ski village of Nozawa Onsen. Founded in 1924 it is ranked as one of Japan’s top ski resorts in terms of total area, history and snow depth. Although the town has cobbled streets it is connected from the old to the new with a fabulous moving walkway called the “Yu-Road” which takes you from the town to the slopes.
There are quirky local shops and bars lining the myriad of lanes, steaming hot baths and foot baths are dotted everywhere, so if your feet are aching after a hard day of skiing, you can sit and soak away the aches until only the glorious memories of powder remain.
Although there is pension style and hotel accommodation available, a fabulous way to experience Nozawa Onsen is at a Ryokan (a Japanese guest house) where you can sleep on futons, dress in a Yukata (robe) and delve into Japanese customs and traditions.
The night life is quiet so if you are looking for a big après ski scene this is not the place. Nozawa Onsen has small intimate bars such as the Foot Bar, and fabulous Japanese dinning. Everywhere you go you will find friendly locals, many wanting to practice their English over a glass of warm sake. If you are lucky with your timing, you will see the spectacular fire festival the 15th of January.
Talk to Sarah she was in Nozawa Onsen last season.
sarahh@skitraveller.co.nz
www.skitraveller.co.nz
