NOZAWA ONSEN
http://www.nozawaski.com/winter/en/
Located at the base of the 1,650m high Mount Kenashi in
northern Nagano, Nozawa Onsen is renowned for its high
snowfall, and has over 30 onsen. The many onsen mean
that Nozawa is characterised by the white steam of the
hot water that rises up through the ground, creating a
wonderful warmth. The onsen are immensely beneficial for
body and soul, making Nozawa the perfect destination for
a rejuvenating escape. Nozawa Onsen has 37 courses for
skiers of all levels, the longest of which is a 10km marathon.
There is a vertical drop of 1,065m, and 21 lifts. Other facilities
include a snowboarding park, a mogul slope, half pipe and
a one make jump. The slopes are also open for nighttime
skiing.
Skiing was introduced to Japan in 1911 by the Austrian Major
Theodor von Lerch. The sport arrived in Nozawa the next
year, and the Nozawa onsen ski resort was established in
1924. The area has seen the likes of Hannes Schneider, one
of the founders of alpine skiing and a famous instructor,
who taught the techniques of “Arlberg skiing” at the Nozawa
onsen in 1930. The ski resort quickly became well known as
a favourite ski destination. During the 1998 Nagano Winter
Olympics the resort was host to the Biathalon events. The
historical significance of skiing in the Nozawa area means
that it is an appropriate site for the Japan Ski Museum.
©Nagano Prefecture
