FAQ

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Does Kashmir House have an elevator?

Kashmir House does not have an elevator; all guest rooms are accessible via stairs.

Can I pay with credit cards at Kashmir House and around the village?

Kashmir House accepts major credit cards for room charges and amenities. However, many traditional shops, bars, and public baths in Nozawa Onsen remain cash-only operations. We recommend carrying Japanese Yen (JPY) cash for village outings.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Smoking Policy at Kashmir House

Kashmir House is a strictly non-smoking property. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside all guest rooms and common areas, and are only permitted in our designated outdoor smoking area.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Are guests with tattoos allowed to use the bathhouse at Kashmir House?

Yes, our lodge baths have no restrictions on tattoos. Public hot springs within Nozawa Onsen village are also tattoo-friendly.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

What is the shoe policy inside Kashmir House?

In keeping with traditional Japanese lodge customs, outdoor footwear and ski boots are prohibited past the main entrance/drying room area. Guest slippers are provided at the entrance for indoor use.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Can we buy lift passes directly at the property?

Yes, our team can assist with purchasing tickets, including discounted non-consecutive multi-day passes. We encourage pre-booking via bookings@staynozawa.com.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

How do we get to and from Nozawa village for dinner at night?

Getting to and from the main village in the evening requires a little planning:

Heading down to the village: You can ride the Yu-road (moving walkway) down to town before it closes (the last run is at 4:20 PM). After 4:20 PM, you can walk down to the village via the groomed snow trail it approximately 15-20minutes on foot.

Returning to Kashmir House: We provide a complimentary evening pick-up service for our guests at 9:00 PM sharp. The meeting point is located outside Craft Room Cafe (near the base of the Nagasaka Gondola).

Late returns (after 9:00 PM): If you remain in town past our 9:00 PM shuttle, you will need to walk 15-20 minutes back up to the lodge via the snow trail.

Safety Note: When walking at night, please wear sturdy winter boots with good traction and carry a torch, headlamp, or phone light, as the snow paths are unlit and can be icy.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions (vegan, vegetarian, allergies) for breakfast at Kashmir House?

Please notify us at least 7 days prior to arrival. While we accommodate major allergies and dietary needs, options may be limited due to fixed seasonal menus.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Does Kashmir House have a restaurant or bar?

Dinner Service: Yes! We offer a traditional Japanese Teishoku (rotating set menu) dinner in our dining room every evening at 6:00 PM for our guests.

Check-In Day Included: A complimentary welcome dinner on your check-in night is included with your stay. If you intend to arrive after 6:00 PM, your check-in dinner can be moved to the next night.

Additional Nights: Guests are welcome to dine at the lodge on subsequent nights for an additional charge. Please sign up at reception the day prior.

Lounge & Bar (for in-house guests only): In the afternoons, we operate a cozy guest lounge serving local beers, Japanese whisky, regional sake, and light snacks.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Do you offer luggage storage at Kashmir House before check-in or after check-out?

Yes, luggage storage is available on check-in and check-out days. Please note that because we are a ski-in/ski-out property, guests must navigate the oversnow terrain to and from the lodge.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Can I ship my ski equipment or luggage to Tanuki Hotel prior to arrival?

Yes, we highly recommend it. You can ship luggage via Yamato Transport (Takkyubin). Include your reservation name and check-in date on the shipping label. During peak winter, allow 2–3 days for delivery from major Japanese airports or cities.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Can I ship my ski equipment or luggage to Kashmir prior to arrival?

Yes, we highly recommend it. You can ship luggage via Yamato Transport (Takkyubin). Include your reservation name and check-in date on the shipping label. During peak winter, allow 2–3 days for delivery from major Japanese airports or cities.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

What is the latest time I can check-in at Kashmir House?

Official check-in ends at 9:00 PM. Because our lodge is accessible only via oversnow transport, arriving after hours requires advance notice. If your arrival is planned after 9:00 PM an additional late fee of ¥5,000 will apply. Please contact us in advance so we can coordinate late oversnow transfer. If your arrival is unexpectedly delayed past 9pm, please contact us immediately so we can assist you.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Is parking available at Kashmir House? Do I need snow tires or chains?

On-site parking is not available. Guests driving to Nozawa Onsen must park in overnight Lot P3. Oversnow transfer from P3 to the lodge must be coordinated in advance via email. The oversnow meeting point is roughly a 15-minute walk from P3.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

When do bookings for the 2027/2028 season open?

Bookings for the winter season 27-28 will open in spring 2027. You can sign up for our mailing list to be instantly notified once bookings are about to open.

Bookings & Availability

I would like to see the Snow Monkeys. Where can I book a tour?

You can book a Snow Monkey tour through the local tour provider, Nozawa Onsen Kotsu. The tour typically takes about half a day. Read more about Snow Monkeys.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

What else is there to do besides skiing?

Nozawa offers a variety of non-skiing activities such as onsens, snow monkey tours, a climbing gym (The Dojo), yoga, snowshoeing, and many wonderful cafes and restaurants. Read more about upcoming events or things to do.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Will there be enough snow when I arrive?

Generally, there is enough snow to ski by Christmas, and the resort plans to open in December. However, we cannot guarantee snow conditions. The ski resort usually remains open until the first week of May (Golden Week).

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Are there pharmacies and medical services in Nozawa?

Yes, Nozawa has two pharmacies and a clinic with both an orthopaedic doctor and a general practitioner. The nearest large hospital is in Iiyama, about a 30-minute drive from Nozawa.

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Can I buy groceries in Nozawa?

Yes, there are small local supermarkets and shops where you can get food and basic necessities. For a larger variety of food, you might consider visiting bigger supermarkets in Iiyama if you are staying in a self-contained apartment.

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Do we need to hire a car?

No, you do not need a car in Nozawa. Everything is within walking distance. Having a car can be inconvenient because parking spots are limited, and the roads are small and icy during winter.

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Is there a mixed gender onsen?

No, there are no mixed onsens in Nozawa. Traditionally, bathhouses are not mixed.

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Can I go to the onsen with children?

Yes, it’s fine to bring children to the onsen. Note that some Onsen may be very hot. You can add cold water to make the temperature more comfortable, especially for children. Read our Onsen Guide.

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Are the Onsen okay with tattoos?

In Nozawa, unlike many places in Japan, tattoos are generally accepted in onsens. Everyone can enjoy the public baths in Nozawa

Onsen, Village & Local Services

Are the restaurants and cafes open during the winter season?

Yes, most restaurants and cafes in Nozawa are open six or seven days a week, including during holidays and Christmas. Please check out our Restaurant Guide.

Restaurants

Do we need to book restaurants in advance?

Yes, we recommend booking restaurants in advance. Our restaurant guide lists popular restaurants in Nozawa. Most restaurants have English-speaking staff and easy reservation systems, either in person or online.

Restaurants

When can we make a reservation for Tengu Sushi?

Bookings for our Tengu Sushi Restaurant will be available online 90 days before the desired date. Sign up for our mailing list to be notified as soon as bookings open and secure your spot at our popular restaurant. If you are visiting Nozawa in the summer, the restaurant is open for walk-ins, and you can view our summer menu here.

Restaurants

When can we make a reservation for Tanuki Teppanyaki?

Our Teppanyaki restaurant is open from mid-December to late March. Reservations will be available online 90 days before the desired date. Sign up for our mailing list to be notified as soon as bookings open and secure your spot at our popular restaurant.

Restaurants

Do you have recommendations for rental shops?

Nozawa has two main gondolas: the Hikage Gondola and the Nagasaka Gondola. We recommend renting your gear from the rental shop closest to your accommodation. As our guest, you will receive a 10% discount at the following shops:

  • If you are staying at Kashmir House, Oguma House or Tanuki Nozawa, the nearest gondola is Hikage, and we recommend Shirakaba Rentals.
  • If you are staying at Bella Vista, Bonbori, Dennojo, Heihachi, Iroha Nozawa or Kamoshika, we recommend renting from Sports Thanx.
Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Do I need to book rental gear in advance?

Yes, we highly recommend booking your rental gear in advance. You'll receive a 10% discount on rental equipment by doing so.

Online, you can select the type of gear and size that suits your needs. Your gear will be ready for pick-up on your first day of skiing.

Although you will need to try on and adjust the gear at the shop, this process will save you a lot of time on your skiing day. You can also pick up your gear the afternoon before your first ski day.

After skiing, you can leave your gear in the rental shop’s dry room, so you don’t have to carry it back to your hotel.

When making online rental reservations, your card will only be charged when you actually pick up your gear.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Do I need a lift ticket for the ski lessons?

Rental gear and lift tickets are not included in the lesson price. If this is your first time skiing / snowboarding you might not need a lift ticket on your first day. Ask your instructor if you need to buy one for the next day.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

How many people can we book into one lesson? Can I join my kid's lesson?

Private lessons are for up to 4 people per instructor, with the price remaining the same. However, we recommend separating adult and children’s lessons since they learn differently. Adults need more technical explanations, while children learn through play and less explanation. Also, children can get distracted if their parents are around. Contact our lesson team for more details.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Does my instructor speak English?

Yes, all our instructors are English-speaking and internationally qualified.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Where is the meeting point for lessons?

Our ski school can arrange a meeting point at your convenience. Generally, we recommend meeting by your rental shop near the gondolas. If you prefer a different location, please email us using the contact form on our lessons page.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

Do my kids need lift tickets?

Children 5 years old and younger do not require a lift ticket and can go through the gate with an adult. Children aged 6-15 get discounted junior prices, while those 16 and older are considered adults.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

I don’t know yet, if I want to ski every day; can I decide later?

No problem! You can decide how many days you want to ski upon arrival. Stay Nozawa offers flexible lift tickets, so you’re not bound to consecutive days. You can also purchase additional days during your stay.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

How can we arrange lift tickets in advance?

You can book flexible lift tickets through us in advance. Flexible tickets are not available directly from the ski resort. For example, a 5-day ticket can be used over a 7-day period, giving you control over when to ski. Secure your ticket vouchers in advance, and they’ll be ready upon your arrival. Exchange the vouchers at any ski resort ticket booth for a pass, which grants access to both gondolas and all lifts. Prices are based on the previous season rates and may change if the ski resort adjusts its prices.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

When do we need to book rental gear, lessons, and lift tickets?

If you have booked your accommodation with us. You will receive an email reminder when bookings for extra services open.

We recommend booking extra services in advance to make your stay hassle-free. Your rental gear will be ready for fitting based on your chosen size, lift pass vouchers will be ready at check-in, and lessons should be secured early as dates and times get booked quickly.

Activities, Rentals, Lessons, and Lift Passes

How or when do I book my Shinkansen Ticket?

During peak seasons, it's advisable to purchase your return Shinkansen tickets before arriving at Nozawa Onsen, as they can sell out. Note that tickets are only available 30 days before the travel date. If you are travelling in Japan before or after your stay in Nozawa Onsen, consider the Japan Rail Pass. The Japan Rail Pass is a convenient, economical option for travel by train throughout Japan and is jointly offered by the six JR Group companies. Read more about the bullet train here.

Transportation and Location

What’s the best way to get to Nozawa from the airport?

You can take the Nagano Snow Shuttle bus directly from the airport to Nozawa. Our bookings team can assist with the booking. Alternatively, you can travel via the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Iiyama Station. More information on traveling by Shinkansen is available here.

Transportation and Location

Do you have a transfer service?

Yes, we offer a transfer service from and to Iiyama Station. Just let us know your arrival and departure times, and we can arrange a pick-up or drop-off. More information is available here. If you need to travel between ski resorts or take a bus directly from the airport, we can assist with booking the Nagano Snow Shuttle. Please email us or fill out the inquiry form here.

Transportation and Location

How do we get from our hotel to the lifts?

Nozawa Ski Resort has two main gondolas, the Hikage Gondola and the Nagasaka Gondola, where you can start your skiing day. All our accommodations are conveniently located near the lifts, in walking distance. Upon arrival, ask our reception team which gondola is closest to your accommodation. A google maps link for each property is available on our contact page.

Transportation and Location

Is breakfast included with at Kashmir House ?

All Kashmir House rooms include daily breakfast during the winter season. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and the rates remain the same even if you do not require breakfast.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Can we secure particular Kashmir House room type with, for example, a mountain view or corner room?

We cannot guarantee specific room types until the day of check-in. Our bookings team will note your preference, but rooms are allocated automatically by our booking system.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Does Kashmir House have a baby cot? Can you provide a baby cot for our infant?

Yes, please let us know if you require a baby cot for your infant, and we can set it up for you prior to your arrival.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Does Kashmir House have a dry / drying room?

Yes, we have a dedicated drying room for jackets, boots, and ski equipment. We also partner with Shirakaba Rentals at Hikage ski area for ski gear rentals.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Does my room at Kashmir House have a private bathroom?

Guest rooms do not have private en-suite showers. Instead, we feature authentic, shared Japanese hot baths (strictly separated into Men’s and Women’s). For guests not comfortable with a shared bathing experience, we suggest reconsidering this booking.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Does Kashmir House have an onsen?

The Kashmir House features a Japanese-style bathhouse with separate facilities for men and women.

Accommodation and Facilities (Kashmir House)

Is breakfast included with our room at Tanuki? Can we book breakfast?

Hotel Rooms: All hotel-type rooms include daily breakfast during the winter season. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and the rates remain the same even if you do not require breakfast.

Apartment: Our apartment-type accommodations, which have fully equipped kitchens, do not include breakfast. However, you can have breakfast at our café, subject to availability. You can order à la carte and pay on the day.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Can we secure particular Tanuki room type with, for example, a mountain view or corner room?

We cannot guarantee specific room types until the day of check-in. Our bookings team will note your preference, but rooms are allocated automatically by our booking system.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does Tanuki have a baby cot? Can you provide a baby cot for our infant?

Yes, please let us know if you require a baby cot for your infant, and we can set it up for you prior to your arrival.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does Tanuki have a microwave that I can use?

Our apartment-type accommodations with a full-size kitchen are equipped with a microwave. However, our hotel rooms and one-bedroom apartments do not have a microwave.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does Tanuki have a washing machine that I can use?

Yes, there is a washing machine in the common area, free for guests to use.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does Tanuki have a dry / drying room?

Yes, we have a dry room where you can store your skis, jackets, boots, and other gear. If you rent gear from one of the rental shops on the mountain, you can also leave it there. All rental shops have drying rooms and ski storage facilities.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does my room at Tanuki have a private bathroom?

Yes, all Tanuki rooms and apartments have a private bathroom with a shower and toilet.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Does Tanuki Nozawa have an onsen?

Tanuki Apartments and Tanuki Hotel do not have an in-house onsen or bathhouse. All our rooms feature private bathrooms. The famous public onsen “O-Yu” is just across the road, and there are many other onsens nearby.

Accommodation and Facilities (Tanuki Nozawa)

Will I receive a reminder when my next payment is due?

Yes, you will be reminded before your next payment is due via email.

Payments & Cancellations

I have made the payment; have you received it?

You can review your booking details through the link provided by our bookings team to check your booking status. If the payment has been processed, you will receive a payment confirmation.

Payments & Cancellations

Can I add an extra person to my reservation?

If the room capacity allows, we can add an additional person for ¥4,000 per night. However, we cannot exceed the room's maximum capacity.

Bookings & Availability

Is the price for children less than for adults?

Children 3 years old and older will use a full bed and are charged the same price as adults. Infants below 3 years are free of charge, though breakfast is not included for infants.

Bookings & Availability

Do you offer packages?

Yes, we offer packages that include lift tickets, transfers to and from the station, and dinners at Tengu Sushi, Teppanyaki, and The Schneider Hotel. You can tailor the package to your needs. We also offer ski lessons and can assist with booking rental gear. Please contact our bookings team for package enquiries.

Bookings & Availability

I only want to stay 3 nights, is that possible?

Yes, closer to the date we will release short-stay options. Alternatively, contact our bookings team at bookings@staynozawa.com. We may have short-stay gaps available.

Bookings & Availability

Can I book less than 7 nights?

Our apartment-type accommodations require a minimum stay of 7 nights, and our hotel room types require a minimum stay of 5 nights. However, rate plans can change closer to the date, allowing for shorter stays. Please contact our bookings team at bookings@staynozawa.com to check for the availability of shorter stays.

Bookings & Availability

I would like to stay at your accommodation in summer, how can I book?

The Green Season in Nozawa runs from May to November. Bookings for the summer months are now open and can be made on our website. For more information about the Green Season, please visit this link.

Bookings & Availability

What is your payment and cancellation policy?

Payment Policy

  • Reservation made more than 90 days prior to arrival: 20% of the accommodation total is required to confirm a reservation. The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to arrival.
  • Reservation made 90 days or less prior to arrival: 100% of the package total is required to confirm a reservation.
  • The quote for lift tickets provided is calculated according to the 2023/24 season rates and may be subject to adjustment in the event of any price increases by the ski resort.

Package Cancellation Policy

  • Cancelling more than 180 days prior to arrival: 5% of the total amount is non-refundable or transferable.
  • Cancelling between 180 days to 90 days prior to arrival: 20% of the total amount is non-refundable or transferable.
  • Cancelling 90 days or less prior to arrival: 100% of the total is non-refundable or transferable.
  • Cancellation policy applies to any changes to the accommodation bookings.
  • Dates and time changes for lift tickets and transfers bookings are subject to availability.
  • We strongly advise guests to have Travel Insurance cover to protect themselves against unexpected changes to their travel plans and in the case of any injuries.
Payments & Cancellations

What do we need to do to secure the booking?

We will send you a tentative quote and hold your reservation for 3 days. To secure and confirm the booking, we require a deposit payment of 20% of the total accommodation cost. Once the payment is received, your booking is confirmed and you will receive a confirmation email.

Bookings & Availability

I can’t find availability on your website, what should I do?

Contact our bookings team at bookings@staynozawa.com with your preferred dates and the number of people. Alternatively, you can make an enquiry through our booking form.

Bookings & Availability

If I can’t see availability on your website, does it mean you are fully booked?

Not necessarily. It might mean:

  • Your preferred property is booked for the selected dates, but we might have options at other properties.
  • We might have other rooms available at the same property.
  • We might have availability for slightly different dates.
    Contact our bookings team to check for alternative dates and options.
Bookings & Availability

We want to stay close to the lifts, what is the best option?

Nozawa is a small village, so everything is within walking distance. All our properties are in prime locations. If you prefer to stay in the village center, we recommend Tanuki Nozawa, Dennojo, Oguma House or MARU. For accommodations closer to the lifts, we suggest Kashmir House Ski Lodge, which offers ski-in/ski-out access, or Iroha Apartments, Bonbori and Kamoshika Lodge, both of which are conveniently located for skiing. All these accommodations are within a 5-10 minute walk to the gondolas or the village center.

Transportation and Location