Who we are and how we got here?

We discoverd Nozawa Onsen in 1998 after the winter Olympics were held in Nagano. We immediately fell in love with the village for its abundant nature, consistent snowfall, renown terrain and the villages strong sense of community.

In 2015, after a 15 year long distance romance with the village we officially relocated, proudly buying and renovating a traditional Japanese Inn. By 2016 renovations were complete and Kumanote Lodge opened for business.

Kumanote translates to bear paw, and has a very significant tie to our village’s history. Steps from the lodge is one of the most famous hot springs, Kumanote Arai. As the story goes Kumanote Arai, was discovered hundreds of years ago by a hunter who came across a bear soaking its wounded paw in the hot spring’s healing water. After a long day on the mountains nothing soothes the body and soul better than a soak its waters.

Guest staying with us enjoy our central location, with easy access to all Nozawa Onsen has to offer. You will be minutes walking from not only the snow resort, but also all the delicious local cuisine with dozens of restaurants to choose from. We are always happy to lend our experience and give recommendations for all aspects of your stay whether you are booking ski lessons, mountain bike tours, SUP tours, touring the shrines, taking in one of our local festivals or spending the day visiting the snow monkeys; we do our best to help you navigate your stay.