Truth be told, avid travellers are always excited about the powder snow in Japan. But there is more than just skislopes in Japan. The picturesque mountain villages in Japan, are also known for onsen.

An onsen is a hot spring, and it is a part of Japanese culture for centuries. If you want to get around the country for some winter adventure, you surely want to take onsen. Here is a comprehensive guide for travellers who have already checked the Nozawa onsen snow report and are excited about the one of its kind opportunity.

What are the benefits of onsen?

An onsen is nature made jacuzzi. Due to the countless benefits, these natural hot water baths are very popular among locals as well as tourists. An onsen is great for relaxation after a long day at a ski resort. Taking an onsen helps you relax and sleep better, and it works wonders as a natural pain reliever. It is believed that taking an onsen is great for blood circulation as well as skin rejuvenation.

Which is the best place to take an onsen in Japan?

Japan has plenty of tourist hotspots with onsen, but the most preferred location is Nozawa onsen. It is a mountain village known as a family friendly ski resort destination.

 You can take a Nozawa onsen liner bus to get around the city and find a prominently located onsen. If you are planning accommodation nearby Nozawa Grand Hotel, then Shin-Yu onsen can be an apt choice for you.

Besides, the 700 years old rich history and culture of Nozawa can be encountered at any of the 13 onsen in this laid back mountain village.

How much does it cost to take an onsen?

Nozawa onsenare public bathhouses, which means taking an onsen at one of the 13 bathhouses is absolutely free. Besides, there are many private ones where you may have to pay a fee for using the onsen.

These public bathhouses are scattered around the town and you can easily find a relaxing space right next to your accommodation easily.

What do you need to know before visiting an onsen?

1. No clothes: These warm pools are meant for the relaxation of your mind, body and soul. Any clothes and swimwear are therefore prohibited as the locals try to protect the tradition. Male and female bathhouses are separate, so no one is really bothered about their modesty.
2. Wash areas: You are supposed to enter the warm pool after entirely cleansing your body. Therefore, dedicated wash areas are designed for the purpose.
3. No swimming: You are supposed to enter the onsen pool for the sake of relaxation. It is considered bad etiquette if you start swimming or putting your head under the water.
4. Timing: Onsen starts early morning and closes by 11 at night. So make sure to take a dip right before bedtime. You can find plenty of Nozawa onsen restaurants nearby a public bathhouse. So have your dinner and go for a warm soak to get a goodnight’s sleep.

Bottom line

Onsen is considered sacred and if you are planning a visit to Japan make sure to learn some basic etiquette to not hurt the sentiments of locals. To enjoy a memorable trip to Japan, you can connect with Stay Nozawa. They can get your travel needs fulfilled including Nozawa onsen lift pass, accommodation, ski tickets, rentals and more.