In this landscape shaped by deep winter snowfall and hot, verdant summers, you will find the ski towns of Iiyama City, a haven for outdoor activities; and Nozawa Onsen Village, rich in hot springs and village charm.

The region is abundant in nature with a unique history and mountain culture. Explore the Chikuma River on a bicycle rented from the Shin-etsu Shizenkyo Activity Center at Iiyama Station or try an exhilarating downhill MTB trail at one of the ski resorts. Hikers can spend days exploring the 110-kilometer-long Shin-etsu trail or take a spiritual quest along the old trail to Kosuge Shrine.

The pretty streets of Nozawa Onsen offer another pastime to refresh travelers with 13 hot spring baths that are free to use. Put on a yukata and geta sandals to go bath-hopping like the locals do or take a stroll around the Ogama Area to watch villagers cooking food in the hot spring waters. There are also many shops and restaurants to enjoy within walking distance of Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.

In addition to Nozawa Onsen’s resort, there are two more ski resorts here. Togari Onsen Ski Resort is just a short drive across the valley from Nozawa Onsen and has Japan’s first snowbiking course, and Madarao Mountain Resort, west of Iiyama Station, is popular for its tree run courses.

A trip here in late January to late February wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a hotpot at the Iiyama Kamakura (snow hut) restaurant.

Map and Access

From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen and arrive at Iiyama Station in 90 minutes. There are buses from Iiyama Station to Nozawa Onsen, Madarao Kogen, and Togari Onsen.

There is also a train on the JR Iiyama Line that runs slowly from Nagano Station to Echigo-Kawaguchi Station in Niigata Prefecture. From its windows you can enjoy the scenery of the Japanese countryside and experience the beauty of the snowbound landscape in winter.

An alternative route to Togari Onsen is to take the JR local line from Iiyama Station to Togari Nozawa Onsen Station and transfer by taxi.

Where to Stay

There are few lodging facilities in front of Iiyama Station, so most guests prefer to stay at the various hotels, guesthouses and pensions near the ski resorts at Nozawa Onsen, Madarao, and Togari Onsen. Hot spring fans will enjoy staying at Nozawa Onsen Village.