Nozawa Onsen Magic above the clouds
With less than 2 months to go until the Snow season starts in Nozawa Onsen we are getting pretty excited. The resort has announced that it will open the Lifts from December 3rd snow permitting. In the past it has been November 21st so there is a chance it could be even earlier. But after 20 Seasons in Nozawa would say that around December 10th onwards is a safe bet if hoping to ski.
We have already had our first dusting though so the signs are positive. After a pretty warm Summer as always in Nozawa Onsen it looks like Autumn has taken a firm grasp on the mountains.
With temperatures really cooling in the past weeks, we have already seen our first dusting of snow on the top at Yamabiko. This was confirmed with some splashes of white coating the peak of Mt Myoko as well. Just some slushy white stuff but great to see.
The elders in the Village often say when we have a hot summer means we can expect a cold winter and and early start to the season so fingers crossed. Ourselves and other local businesses have been worried that it may be a quieter season this year, but popular times are starting to fill up already which is encouraging and if you have not already booked would do so soon.
There has been a buzz around the resort with some exciting things happening for the coming season. The top station of the Nagasaka Gondola is undergoing a full renovation which will see a great new restaurant and cafe opening in December. The Gondola has already been in full swing over Summer bringing hikers and Mountain Bikers up to the top to enjoy the green season.
Another blast from the past will see the revitalization of the famous Kurhaus. A luxury onsen and spa retreat in the centre of town. In its heyday this was the place to go at the end of a day on the slopes. It had since become a bit neglected but this season it is to be restored to its former glory days.
Nozawa Onsen and everyone here is doing well, the rice has just been harvested, the temperatures are cooling and spirits are high, we are ready and look forward to welcoming you all back for another amazing ski season in Nozawa.
We have just launched our new website show casing all 4 of our unique properties with something to suit everyone and every budget please check it out: Ski Japan
Thanks to Jan and Manu from Switzerland for these great photos.
The Yamabiko Ski Centre in for a full make over
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