---
title: The Ogama hot-spring source
url: https://karigurashijourney.com/en/notes/ogama-hot-spring-source/
lang: en
journey: https://karigurashijourney.com/en/episodes/nozawa/
---

# The Ogama hot-spring source

A little of each town’s story　/　Nozawaonsen, Nagano

One of the springs that feed Nozawa Onsen, with water close to 90 degrees. The name covers five pools (Ogama, Marugama, Yudegama, Takenoshigama and Shimogama) and is said to come from soaking hemp here to strip its bark. Designated a natural monument by the village, it is still used by residents to boil mountain vegetables and eggs or soak akebi vines, each pool serving a different purpose. Because of the scalding water, entry is limited to villagers.

8713-Ro Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Nagano

## This moment in the journey: Beside the Ogama

At the heart of all this steam is the Ogama, a source where water close to 90 degrees wells up. A sign names it a natural monument, and another on the railing warns that the water is scalding. Locals still boil mountain vegetables and eggs here and wash their greens. The hot springs run deep in village life.

Right beside the Ogama is a cooking spot that visitors may use. I lifted the wooden lid with both hands and a cloud of steam hit my face. Up came the basket: breakfast was ready.

![Steam rising from the Ogama over the autumn-colored town](https://karigurashijourney.com/img/nozawa/s19-1200.jpg)
- Sources: https://www.go-nagano.net/theme/id=20579

Read this scene in the full journey: https://karigurashijourney.com/en/episodes/nozawa/