Nozawa Onsen

In Nozawa Onsen Village in northern Nagano, Nozawa Onsen is a snow-country spa town long known as a place to take the waters. The thirteen public baths cared for by villagers are open free of charge, and bath-hopping is the local pleasure. Steam rising over the streets carries an old-fashioned charm.

Highlights

Oyu, standing at the center of town, is a striking symbol with bathhouse architecture that conveys an Edo-period mood. At the Ogama, where very hot spring water gushes out, you may glimpse locals boiling vegetables, a warm scene of daily life. Strolling the stone-paved lanes between baths is the height of relaxation.

Enjoying the Seasons

In winter the area is famous internationally for skiing, and a soak after a day on the slopes is exceptional. Fresh greenery in spring, cool highland air in summer, and autumn foliage charm visitors through every season.

Access and Basic Information

From Iiyama Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen it is about thirty-five minutes by bus. By car it is about twenty-five minutes from the Toyota-Iiyama interchange on the Joshin-etsu Expressway. The public baths can be used with a small donation.

A Quick Tip

The public baths are precious places kept clean and protected by local residents. Rinse off well before entering, remember a small donation in the box, and mind the manners as you bathe.