Hi, I’m Vinnie, the Communication Division Leader of S-TISA (Science Tokyo International Students Association). When our event division announced a gasshuku trip to Nagano for skiing, I knew I had to go. Not only was it my first time skiing, but it was also a rare chance to experience Japanese winter with my friends from all over the world. Let me tell you about our gasshuku trip to Nagano! It was an unforgettable winter escape filled with skiing, onsen-hopping, and snowy adventures. I never imagined I’d one day be shouting and translating ski instructions in Japanese while surrounded by snow-covered mountains — but here we are.
What is Gasshuku?
In Japanese, gasshuku (合宿) typically refers to a group training camp or retreat. It is often done by clubs or teams to build skills and deepen bonds. But for us at S-TISA, it was more about building friendships, enjoying nature, and yes, learning how to not tumble down a ski slope. It was a perfect blend of activity and connection, where students from various countries, programs, and levels came together to share an experience outside of academics.
The Trip to Nagano
Early one winter morning, instead of a tour bus or train, we packed our rental cars and drove out of Tokyo, watching the scenery shift from gray city blocks to white mountains and forests. The journey itself was part of the bonding. With students from different countries piled into cars, playlists on, snacks shared, and laughter echoing, the road trip gave the weekend a lighthearted start. Arriving in Nagano, we were greeted by a stunning landscape. The city was blanketed in soft snow, pine trees dusted white, and the ski slopes standing tall in the distance. Being surrounded by snow and mountains felt like stepping into another world, far from our usual busy schedules and fluorescent-lit labs.
We stayed at a cozy ryokan with tatami floors and futons. They are very different from typical hotels and a great way to experience traditional Japanese hospitality. At night, we gathered for a beautiful multi-course dinner prepared by the ryokan. Hot soup, fresh vegetables, grilled fish, and rice were served.
The Unfazed Snow Monkeys
One highlight of the trip was visiting the famous snow monkeys in Jigokudani. Watching these wild macaques’ bathe in steaming natural hot springs in the snow was surreal. It felt like something out of a National Geographic documentary. The trail leading there was icy, but it was worth every slippery step. At one point, I even slipped on the stairs, scraping my knee and staining my dress in mud, but lovely S-TISA members were there to help me.
The monkeys, unfazed by our human presence, simply sat back and enjoyed their onsen life. It was a perfect reminder of how nature and tradition coexist so effortlessly in Japan.
Wandering Nozawa Onsen: Steam, Snacks, and Soaking
One especially charming part of the trip was exploring the town of Nozawa Onsen. Steam rose from the streets as we wandered through the narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and public bathhouses. The town has a nostalgic atmosphere — like a living postcard from old Japan.
We sampled all kinds of local street foods — oyaki (steamed buns with various fillings), skewered snacks, and some alcohol. Each stop was like a mini reward between soaking sessions. Yes, sessions — because we didn’t visit just one onsen. We tried many. Each public bath had its own mineral makeup, atmosphere, and temperature. Some were small and quiet, others bustling with locals and travelers alike.
For many of us, this was the first time trying an onsen-hopping experience, and it became one of the most unforgettable parts of the trip. I found the onsen to be a unique cultural ritual, a way to unwind, and an invitation to pause.
First Time on Skis: A Controlled Disaster
On the slopes, we had booked Japanese ski instructors to help us get started. That meant I got to play translator for my friends who didn’t speak Japanese. It was challenging but fun: shouting out translations in the middle of a lesson or helping smooth out communication with the instructors. It was also a good chance to practice real-world Japanese, something no textbook can fully prepare you for.
I won’t lie — skiing for the first time was hard. The skis felt unnatural, the balance was tricky, and gravity showed me no mercy. But that’s what made it all the more fun. We cheered each other on, laughed at every wipeout, and high-fived after each small improvement. The ski instructors were incredibly patient, and even with the language gap, we managed to learn the basics.
Slowly and steadily, I could finally glide (a bit) down the beginner slope without falling every five seconds. It felt like flying. When I looked around, I saw the same smiles and breakthroughs on everyone’s faces. For most of us, this was not just about learning a new sport, but conquering fear, embracing the unknown, and gaining confidence.
Why Gasshuku Matters
Trips like these aren’t just fun, they’re vital for building a sense of community among international students. Being in a new country can be challenging, and sometimes isolating. But shared experiences like this gasshuku remind us that we’re not alone in the journey. We’re surrounded by people going through the same ups and downs, and together we can turn even a freezing fall on the slopes into something we laugh about later. I had deep conversations with students from countries I had never been to, laughed over language mix-ups, and even practiced a bit of Japanese with the friendly lodge staff. The atmosphere was open, inclusive, and full of genuine connection, which can be hard to find during a busy semester.
As someone who’s deeply involved in S-TISA, this gasshuku reaffirmed why we do what we do: to create spaces for students to connect not just as classmates, but as people with stories, cultures, and dreams worth sharing.
Closing Thoughts
Going to Nagano with S-TISA was more than just a winter trip. I tried skiing for the first time, made new friends, and saw a side of Japan I wouldn’t have on my own. I came back to Tokyo with sore muscles, a thousand photos, and a heart a little fuller. Thank you event team for organizing this wonderful trip!
