Nozawa Onsen was due to be opened on November 22nd. This opening was scheduled a week earlier than last year. Unfortunately they did not get the snow, so are still waiting. This notice was posted on their website (translated from the Japanese)
Nozawa Onsen Ski Area Opening Day Notice of Postponement
Due to insufficient snow, the planned opening of Nozawa on November 22nd, 2008 (Saturday) has been postponed.
As soon as the opening day of the resort is decided we will inform you via this website and our mail newsletter.
We apologise deeply to all those skiers and snowboarders who where looking forward to the opening day of the resort, and hope to receive your understanding.
Snow was due over night and more is set to fall on Thursday. Let’s hope they can get enough to open this weekend.