Japan’s tourism scene is booming, with international visitors flocking to its stunning natural landscapes and cultural treasures. If you’re planning a trip to Nagano Prefecture, the recent opening of a new hotel wing in Ogizawa, Omachi City, is set to elevate your experience. Designed with foreign tourists in mind, this accommodation serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the iconic Kurobe Dam and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. In this guide, we’ll dive into the details of this exciting development, share must-see attractions, and offer tips to make your visit seamless and memorable. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, Omachi City has something for everyone.
A Warm Welcome for International Travelers: The New Hotel Wing Opens in Ogizawa
Attracting inbound tourists has never been more important for Japan’s regional destinations, and Omachi City is stepping up with the grand opening of a new annex at the ANA Holiday Inn Resort Shinano-Omachi Kuroyon. Located in the scenic Ogizawa area, this facility is tailored to meet the needs of global visitors heading to the famous Kurobe Dam. Even on opening day, travelers from Asia and beyond were already arriving, drawn by the region’s breathtaking alpine scenery.
The new wing boasts an exterior inspired by the majestic white walls of “Yuki no Otani” (Snow Valley), a highlight of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route where snow walls can tower up to 20 meters high in spring. This design choice not only blends harmoniously with the surrounding Northern Alps but also evokes the wonder of Japan’s seasonal landscapes. With 30 spacious rooms, the annex is equipped for longer stays, featuring ample luggage storage to accommodate international travelers’ gear—perfect if you’re packing for hikes or multi-day adventures.
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One of the most thoughtful features is the inclusion of private hot spring (onsen) baths in every room. While the hotel offers a traditional large communal bath, the designers recognized that not all cultures are comfortable with public nudity, a common aspect of Japanese onsen etiquette. By piping natural hot spring water directly into private suites, guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of onsen—such as relaxation and skin rejuvenation—in a more familiar, private setting. This culturally sensitive approach ensures that visitors from diverse backgrounds feel at ease while immersing themselves in authentic Japanese wellness traditions.
Practical amenities abound, including a coin laundry with three washer-dryer units, ideal for those on extended trips. Emi Fukumoto, President of Kanden Real Estate Development, shared her vision: “We believe there’s still untapped potential here, so we’re committed to creating facilities that delight every guest who visits.” This sentiment reflects Japan’s growing focus on sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
Why Omachi City? The Ideal Base for Kurobe Dam Tourism
Omachi City, nestled in Nagano Prefecture, serves as the gateway to some of Japan’s most dramatic natural wonders. From Ogizawa, you can easily access the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a world-renowned mountain traverse that combines buses, cable cars, ropeways, and trolley buses for an unforgettable journey through the Japanese Alps. The route’s star attraction? The Kurobe Dam, Japan’s tallest arch dam at 186 meters, completed in 1963 after seven years of construction. This engineering marvel not only generates hydroelectric power but also offers stunning views of turquoise waters against rugged peaks, especially from its observation deck.
For international visitors, the appeal lies in the blend of adventure and serenity. In spring, witness the Yuki no Otani snow walls, a temporary phenomenon where cleared paths create corridors of pristine snow— a photographer’s dream and a testament to Japan’s harmonious relationship with nature. Summer brings hiking trails blooming with alpine flowers, while autumn paints the mountains in vibrant reds and golds. Winter transforms the area into a skiing paradise, with nearby resorts offering world-class slopes.
Beyond the dam, Omachi boasts other gems like the Omachi Dam itself, with its panoramic views and easy accessibility by car. Explore the Nanakura and Takase Dams for more dynamic scenery, or venture into Chubu-Sangaku National Park for kayaking on crystal-clear lakes and spotting wildlife such as Japanese macaques or eagles. For a slower pace, visit local hot springs or sample regional cuisine, including soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat and fresh mountain vegetables—dishes that highlight Nagano’s agricultural heritage.
The Rise of Inbound Tourism in Omachi and Nagano
Tourism in Omachi is on an upward trajectory, reflecting Japan’s post-pandemic recovery. Two years ago, the city welcomed over 1.01 million overnight guests, though foreigners numbered fewer than 40,000. However, recent data shows a surge in international arrivals to Nagano Prefecture, with foreign guest numbers reaching record highs in early 2025, up significantly from 2023 levels. This growth is fueled by global interest in sustainable travel and off-the-beaten-path destinations, away from crowded urban centers like Tokyo and Kyoto.
Japan’s overall inbound tourism has rebounded strongly, with millions visiting in 2024 alone, drawn by the weak yen and diverse experiences. In Omachi, initiatives like the new hotel wing are poised to boost these figures, making the area more accessible for non-Japanese speakers through multilingual services and culturally adapted amenities.
Travel Tips for Non-Native Visitors: Making the Most of Your Trip
To ensure a smooth journey, here are some culturally sensitive tips tailored for international travelers:
- Getting There: Fly into Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport, then take a shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano Station, followed by a bus to Omachi. From Ogizawa, the Alpine Route starts with a trolley bus to Kurobe Dam.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) for snow walls and cherry blossoms; summer for hiking; autumn for foliage; winter for skiing. Check weather apps, as alpine conditions can change rapidly.
- Onsen Etiquette: Even with private baths, remember to wash thoroughly before entering the water. Tattoos, once taboo in public onsens, are increasingly accepted, but confirm policies.
- Sustainable Practices: Respect nature by sticking to trails, avoiding litter, and supporting local businesses. Omachi promotes eco-friendly tourism to preserve its pristine environment.
- Language and Navigation: Use apps like Google Translate or Hyperdia for trains. Many signs are in English, and hotel staff are trained to assist foreigners.
With these insights, you’ll navigate Omachi like a pro, creating memories that blend adventure with cultural discovery.
Plan Your Kurobe Dam Adventure Today
The opening of the ANA Holiday Inn Resort Shinano-Omachi Kuroyon’s new wing marks an exciting chapter for inbound tourism in Omachi City. As Japan continues to welcome the world, destinations like this offer authentic experiences without the crowds. Whether you’re marveling at Kurobe Dam’s grandeur, walking through snow valleys, or soaking in a private onsen, Omachi promises rejuvenation and wonder. Book your stay now and embark on a journey through Nagano’s Northern Alps—your alpine escape awaits!
