Nozawa Onsen is a sleepy hot spring town in northern Nagano Prefecture on Japan’s main island featuring charming, wood-panelled streets and buildings that have survived since the Edo period (1603-1868). There are 13 traditional hot spring baths (sotoyu) maintained by the local community that are freely open to the public as well as a range of both traditional and international restaurants and bars to enjoy.

During the Winter, visitors can enjoy the 1,085 metres of vertical downhill skiing with two gondolas taking you straight to the top, accessing 36 runs, the longest of which is almost seven miles long. Whilst not as large as either Niseko or the Hakuba Valley, Nozawa Onsen's ski area is stunningly pretty, with expansive views and wooded runs. There is plenty of variety with steep, mogul runs and excellent off-piste between the trees, as well as gentle, cruisy blues — all of which benefit from Japan's legendary quality of snow.

Nozawa Onsen is truly the best place in Japan for combining a cultural experience with excellent skiing. A real highlight is a stay at a Ryokan (traditional Inn). Here, guests sleep on a futon laid out on tatami mats, bathe in communal hot spring baths and feast on delicate Kaiseki cuisine. There are also fantastic day trips within easy reach of the town including the famous bathing “snow monkeys” of Yudanaka and the beautiful castle town of Matsumoto.