Winter Adventure on the Nozawa Onsen Stamp Trail
Discover the charm of Nozawa Onsen! Join the Stamp Trail, collect unique cultural imprints, and immerse yourself in a vibrant adventure of heritage and natural beauty. Perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike!
Skiing Japan’s famous powder in Nozawa Onsen is exhilarating, but what about those off-slope days when your legs need a break? Enter the Nozawa Onsen Stamp Trail – a fun, culturally rich activity that lets you explore this snowy hot spring village. The Stamp Trail combines a treasure hunt with a relaxing Onsen-hopping tour, connecting travelers with the village’s charm, history, and heritage baths in a memorable way. It’s highly recommended as a great way to get acquainted with the area, all while collecting stamps and earning a unique souvenir!
*Oyu (pictured above) is one of 13 traditional public baths in the village and a must-visit spot along the Stamp Trail.
What is the Nozawa Onsen Stamp Trail?
The Nozawa Onsen Stamp Trail offers a unique way to explore 27 historical and cultural sites in the village, including famous Onsen’s. Participants collect special stamps at each location. These stamps depict local legends and Onsen symbols, allowing visitors to uncover the village’s stories while enjoying the tour.
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Place Your Paper: Lay the yellow and white sheets from your book on the plaque.
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Rub the Design: Use the wooden pestle to rub over the paper until the design transfers.
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Check and Continue: Check your impression. If unclear, rub again. Move to the next site and repeat.
What You’ll Discover
The trail includes various traditional bathhouses like Oyu and Taki-no-yu, significant temples and shrines, and historical markers that narrate the tale of Nozawa Onsen’s origins and cultural landmarks. Noteworthy spots include Yuzawa Shrine and Oyu onsen.
Yuzawa Shinto Shrine stands as the Guardian of Nozawa Onsen. Visitors are invited to engage in traditional Shinto rituals to connect with the spiritual protector of the village. Here, you can make an offering at the main hall by ringing the shrine’s bell to capture the Kami’s (spirit’s) attention, followed by tossing some coins into the offering box. The proper etiquette includes two bows, two claps, and a final bow to show reverence before making your prayer.
Rewards Along the Way
Participants who collect over ten stamps receive a commemorative Nozawa Onsen towel from the Nozawa Onsen Tourist Information Centre, designed by the famous artist Taro Okamoto. This special towel and the experience of exploring Nozawa enrich your visit, making the Stamp Trail a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion, enriching your visit. It’s particularly appealing to families with children, turning the experience into a memorable treasure hunt that captivates their imagination and enthusiasm.
For more details, you can check the Nozawa Onsen tourism page for updates and additional information on each stamp location and their historical significance. This winter, the snowy landscapes and welcoming hot springs, the Stamp Trail offers a unique and enriching way to delve deeper into the heart of Nozawa Onsen
