Nozawa onsen ski
2nd ski here since 2008. Heavy snow upon arrival and on the first day on the slope, with gusty wind and freezing cold temps around -10C day and night. Great Pow !!
Madarao ski
went to Madarao for 1D-ski. About 1.5hr by shuttle bus from Nozawa. Snow was less powdery in general, might be due to lower altitude. Good pow was on the Crystal run on top @1300m where the slope was partially shielded by trees.
Nozawa onsen town
Before leaving, had a quick stroll around the onsen town, including the onsen origin.