Karuizawa: Top 15 Things to Do, Hotels, and Access From Tokyo

Karuizawa - A Famous Holiday Resort near Tokyo

Karuizawa is a town in the Kitasaku district of eastern Nagano. With its cool climate, it is known as a place take refuge from the sweltering summer temperatures. In the winter, Karuizawa becomes a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports.

In 1886, the Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw visited the area to get away from the heat in the urban area. After that, Karuizawa became the favorite resort for visitors from overseas. After the period of economic prosperity following the First World War, Karuizawa became renowned as a holiday resort among the Japanese. Gorgeous villas and shops targeted at summer tourists sprung up one by one, and Karuizawa established itself as an international resort destination.

Read on to learn the best places to visit in Karuizawa such as Shiraito Falls, Kumoba Pond, Karuizawa Kogen Church, and others.

Karuizawa Travel Tips 2023

Top 15 Things to Do in Karuizawa

We’ve compiled a list of top things to do and places to visit in Karuizawa.

1. Old Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street

Old Karuizawa Ginza, or Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza, is a shopping street bustling with tourists. This 50-meter street is lined with restaurants, cafes, accessory and souvenir shops, galleries, boutiques and more.

Old Karuizawa Ginza Map

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2. Kumoba Pond

A picturesque spot near JR Karuizawa Station, the still waters at Kumoba Pond reflect the surrounding trees creating a beautiful view. There are footpaths around the pond, so you can enjoy the scenery from many different angles.

After a walk around the pond, how about stopping for a tea or coffee break at one of the cafes in the area?

Kumoba Pond

Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture 389-01...

3. Karuizawa Shiraito Falls

Karuizawa Shiraito Falls is 3 meters high and 70 meters wide. Its name can be translated as “White Thread Falls” and is derived from the similarity of the waterfall to white threads. In contrast to regular waterfalls, which are formed by a drop of water from a lake or a pond into a river, the water of Shiraito Falls comes from underground, breaching through the cliffs.

You will surely be moved by the beauty of this waterfall and by its soothing sound.

The Karuizawa Shiraito Falls can be accessed in about 20 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station via the Shiraito Highland Way.

Shiraito Falls

Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture 389-011...

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4. Former Mikasa Hotel

The Former Mikasa Hotel was built in 1905. It is a Western-style hotel built entirely of wood by Japanese craftsmen. Its unique exterior is a fusion of American, British, and German architectural styles.

The hotel is famous for having been the lodging of members of the imperial family and royalty from overseas during their visit to Karuizawa. It is now an important national cultural property.

Former Mikasa Hotel

1339-342 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0102

5. Harunire Terrace

Harunire Terrace is a recreation site with shops, restaurants, and elegant cafes, located in the Naka-Karuizawa area. The facility has stores targeting customers with refined tastes who wish to spend a relaxing time enjoying the nature of Karuizawa.

The fresh bread from the bakery and restaurant Sawamura, as well as coffee and sponge cake from the well-established Maruyama Coffee store, are some of the most popular products to enjoy here. The picturesque Karuizawa Kogen Church and the Tombo no yu hot spring bathing facility are also close by.

Hoshino Resort Harunire Terrace

2145-5 Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture...

6. The Museum of Contemporary Art, Karuizawa

The Museum of Contemporary Art, Karuizawa collects and displays artwork by Japanese artists who have been successful overseas. Visitors can enjoy works by artists like Yayoi Kusama, Yoshitomo Nara, Tsuguharu Foujita and others.

Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art

2052-2 Nagakura Hanareyama, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano...

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7. Senga Falls

The Senga Falls is 20 meters high and 2 meters wide. The highlight of this waterfall is watching the current weave its way through the rugged boulders below.

The Senga Falls can be accessed in about 20 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station.

Sengataki

Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture 389-011...

8. Lake Shiozawa

Surrounded by greenery, Lake Shiozawa is the only place in Karuizawa where you can enjoy the sight of boats. The adjacent Musee PEYNET displays artwork by Raymond Peynet. Another facility worth visiting nearby is the English Rose Garden, an impressive facility with about 1,800 roses.

Lake Shiozawa

Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture 389-011...

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9. Karuizawa Kogen Church

The Karuizawa Kogen Church is a Japanese Episcopalian church that was established in 1921 in a wooden building. A particular highlight of the facility is the Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church, which holds gospel meetings and candlelight services that are open to all.

Photo by atpress

Karuizawa Kogen Church is famous for its light-up events. Each year, the church hosts candle nights in summer, autumn, and winter.

In winter, the Holy Forest is adorned with cozy, warm glowing lights, guiding the way to the church, where a magnificent shimmering Christmas tree stands tall.

Karuizawa Kogen Church

Hoshino, Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture 389-0195

10. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort

Photo by PR Times
Only an hour from Tokyo, Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is a fantastic destination for skiing. Situated directly across from Karuizawa Station, the resort provides a range of options for visitors, including shopping, dining, accommodations, hot springs, and of course, snow! The resort is open from November to March, allowing guests to fully experience the winter season in the region.

Photo by PR Times
With a peak height of 1,155m, this snow resort offers 16 courses that cater to various terrains and difficulty levels. The resort's ski school provides private English lessons, and visitors can also rent skiing and snowboarding equipment. Renting a ski set for adults costs 5,500 yen per day, while children can rent one for 4,500 yen. Even those who do not participate in skiing or snowboarding can still enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains by taking the sightseeing Lift and savoring delectable warm food at one of the many restaurants in the vicinity.

2023 - 2024 Season: *November 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024
Official website: https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/karuizawa/

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11. Oiwake-shuku: An Old Post Town

Photo by Pixta
The appealing village of Oiwake-shuku in Karuizawa is a charming post town that has retained its historical buildings from the Edo period. Nowadays, visitors can enjoy a blend of traditional and modern activities and cuisines.

The area boasts a diverse range of restaurants that offer delectable options like katsudon, shabu shabu, soba, and fish dishes from the rich Japanese culinary tradition. Situated near renowned attractions such as Shiraito Waterfall, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, and the former Mikasa Hotel, Oiwake-shuku presents an ideal opportunity to explore the region's craftsmanship and culture while indulging in excellent food.

For those seeking unique experiences, there are opportunities to engage in activities such as glass blowing and even embark on a fascinating flying squirrel watching tour at night.

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12. Karuizawa Lake Garden

Photo by Pixta
Karuizawa Lake Garden is a serene and picturesque garden that showcases a vibrant display of colorful flowers throughout the year. In June and July, the garden bursts with enchanting hues of purple and pink as over 3,500 roses bloom, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Come August, you can witness the graceful sight of pink water lilies adorning the surface of the spacious pond, accompanied by elegant lily pads. Butterflies gracefully flutter around the garden, paying visits to the cheerful summer blooms. As autumn arrives, the garden transforms into a captivating scene with vibrant orange foliage and the arrival of chrysanthemums.

Photo by Pixta

Photo by Pixta
With eight distinct areas, each filled with unique landscapes, flowers, and attractions, Karuizawa Lake Garden is truly a paradise for flower enthusiasts. At the heart of the garden, you'll find a large pond that beautifully reflects the fluffy clouds and surrounding trees, adding to the garden's tranquil ambiance.

Exploring the expansive 33,000-meter-square grounds of Karuizawa Lake Garden takes approximately one hour. On-site, you'll find shops offering gardening goods and sweets, along with a delightful British-style cafe where you can relax with a cup of tea. Additionally, there is a restaurant that serves French cuisine for those seeking a more substantial dining experience.

Official website: https://www.karuizawa-lakegarden.jp/

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13. Karuizawa Winter Festival and Events

Photo by Pixta
Karuizawa is a renowned destination for summer getaways, offering relief from the scorching temperatures found in places like Tokyo. However, the town is equally famous for its captivating winter festival, where dazzling illuminations, lights, and nature come together in a spectacular display.

Every year, the city is transformed into a magical wonderland, with enchanting lights illuminating the streets. The festival features various festivities, including Christmas concerts that fill the air with joyous melodies. Children can participate in an event at the Marche and receive a gift.

Photo by Pixta

During this time, Karuizawa also offers special discounts on ski resorts and notable attractions, such as the illuminated Shiraito Falls. To see further details you can check the official website: https://karuizawamonogatari.com/events/

Photo by PR Times

In 2023, the Karuizawa Hoshino Area will be adorned with vibrant lights for the Christmas 2023 Karuizawa Hoshino Area event, held from December 1st to 25.

This popular area combines food, nature, and magical displays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. Karuizawa becomes a winter wonderland during this time, making it one of the best places in Japan to celebrate Christmas.

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14. Onioshidashi Volcanic Park in Joshinetsu Highlands National Park

Photo by Pixta
Onioshidashi Volcanic Park offers a striking and dynamic landscape that stands in stark contrast to Karuizawa's lush green nature. The park's terrain is covered with volcanic rocks and remnants from the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Asama in 1783. This eruption darkened the skies with smoke, enveloping the area in darkness for several days.

As a result of the unfortunate events that have occurred repeatedly, the park earned its nickname as the "devil's playground." Amidst the rubble and ash, a symbol of hope emerges in the form of the vibrant red Asamayama Kannondo Temple, dedicated to the goddess of mercy. This dedication is fitting for an area that has experienced immense destruction.

Photo by Pixta
The park provides panoramic views of the surrounding villages and towns, stretching across prefectural borders and even extending into Gunma prefecture. It is a popular location within the expansive Joshinetsu Highlands National Park, which spans three different prefectures. In fact, this national park is recognized as the fourth largest in Japan and is cherished for its abundance of natural attractions, including the renowned snow monkeys in Nagano.

Photo by Pixta
Being situated in Niigata, Gunma, and Nagano, Onioshidashi Volcanic Park offers diverse scenery, making it an ideal destination for exploration and hiking. Visitors can enjoy different views and immerse themselves in distinct environments as they traverse this fascinating region of Japan.

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15. GAFLO CAFE by Flower FIELD

In Karuizawa, you will find three captivating venues designed and created by the esteemed company, Flower Fields. These locations offer a splendid blend of nature and beauty. The first is GATE Flower FIELD, an atmospheric flower shop made of wood.

Here, visitors can delight in a wide range of flower arrangements, home decor, and even wedding flower arrangements.

After exploring this enchanting shop, travelers can make their way to Gaflo Cafe, a charming woodland cafe nestled amidst foliage. With each passing season, the cafe transforms, creating a unique atmosphere throughout the year. Adorned with flowers from ceiling to wooden tables, the venue resembles a house straight out of a fairytale.

Guests can appreciate Karuizawa's breathtaking nature by taking a seat on the terrace, which offers an open view. Mirrors designed as windows grace the terrace walls, reflecting the warm sun rays and vibrant greenery. This creates the illusion of an infinite forest continuing within the building. Gaflo Cafe caters to vegans, offering a delightful selection of meals and afternoon tea completely free from animal products.

Situated alongside Gate Wedding and Gate Flower Field, Gaflo Cafe is an ideal spot for flower and nature enthusiasts, as well as brides-to-be. The location can be reached in approximately 50 minutes from Karuizawa Station by train and walking. Driving is recommended due to its proximity to a national road.

We also recommend visiting two other delightful spots in Karuizawa created by the same team. FLOWER FIELD GARDENS is a beloved gardening center that has thrived since 2005. It offers an array of beautiful flowers, home decor, and antiques, serving as Flower Fields' flagship store in Karuizawa.

Another charming destination is Floro Cafe, situated within a retro building. Adorned with similar materials as Gaflo Cafe, this chic cafe exudes a welcoming atmosphere with its wooden structures. Here, guests can enjoy vegan French toast while surrounded by flowers and nature, even bringing along their furry friends. Floro Cafe is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Komoro Station.

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Shopping in Karuizawa: Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

One of the largest outlet shopping malls in the country, the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza contains 240 stores that handle fashion items, accessories, and interior design items.

You'll be able to find a wide array of apparel, from high-class brand items to more conservative fashion, as well as kids’ clothing and outdoor wear.

The outlet boasts excellent restaurants, too. It is also renowned as a pet-friendly facility.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture 389-01...

Getting to Karuizawa from Tokyo and Osaka

We explain how to get to Karuizawa from Tokyo and Osaka efficiently.

From Tokyo

You can take either the Shinkansen or a highway bus to Karuizawa. Taking the Shinkansen will be 1,000 to 2,000 yen more expensive, but the train will arrive an hour or two hours earlier than the bus, a point in its favor.

By Shinkansen
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo or Shinagawa Station and get off at Karuizawa Station. Travel times and fares will vary by Shinkansen type, but you can expect to arrive in 65 to 80 minutes. This is the recommended method for holders of the Japan Rail Pass as the pass provides free unreserved seats on the Shinkansen.

Tokyo - Karuizawa
Fare: 5,390 yen

Shinagawa/Karuizawa
Fare: 5,710 yen

By Bus
There are buses to Naka Karuizawa Station from Ikebukuro, Tatekawa, Yokohama and Haneda Airport.

Tokyo/Ikebukuro/Tatekawa-Karuizawa
Fare: 2,500 yen one-way. 4,500 yen round-trip
Travel time: Three hours

Yokohama/Haneda Airport - Karuizawa
Fare: 3,200 yen one-way, 6,400 yen roundtrip
Travel time: Four hours

From Osaka

By Shinkansen

When traveling from Shin-Osaka Station, you will need to transfer at Tokyo Station to get to Karuizawa Station.

Shin-Osaka - Karuizawa
Fare: 17,820 yen
Travel time: Four hours

By Bus
There is a direct bus that runs through Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station, the Namba OCAT building and the Higashi-Umeda subway station en route to Naka Karuizawa Station and Karuizawa Station.

Osaka - Karuizawa
Fare: 9,500 yen one-way; 17,100 yen roundtrip
Travel time: 11 and a half hours

If you want to minimize travel time and have the JR Pass, you should take the Shinkansen.

Getting around Karuizawa

You can get around Karuizawa via bus or taxi; you can also rent a bicycle or car.

There are bus routes from Karuizawa Station which stop at Kyu Karuizawa, Naka Karuizawa Station, and Minami Karuizawa (an east loop and a south loop). Another route goes from Shinano-Oiwake Station to west Sengataki and Naka Karuizawa Station (a north loop). However, these buses are very infrequent, only running five or six times a day.

If your budget allows for it, we recommend renting a car to go sightseeing around Karuizawa. While you could also rent a bicycle, you should be aware of the conditions. Karuizawa has steep slopes in many places and can be extremely cold in winter.

MATCHA has an exclusive 10% discount coupon for international visitors when renting a vehicle from Nippon Rent-A-Car, one of Japan's leading rental car companies.

Naturally, there are numerous Nippon Rent-A-Car offices around Tokyo and Karuizawa. Be sure to check it out if you're considering renting a car!

Please refer to this article when choosing a travel method that best suits your traveling style!

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Karuizawa Weather and What to Wear

Karuizawa is situated in the cold highlands. Because Karuizawa’s climate is comparatively less humid, it is characteristically cool in the summer and quite cold in the winter. Evenings can get chilly, even in the summertime, so you should have a shawl or light coat at the ready.

Protection against the cold is a must in the winter. You will definitely need a down jacket, gloves and some headwear. When going up into the mountains, it would be wise to prepare some spiked boots to deal with the snow. Snow glare can also cause UV damage to the eyes, so don’t forget to wear sunglasses. If you’re visiting in winter, have fun, but be sure to take precautions against the low temperatures and the snow.

Karuizawa in Winter: A Popular Ski Resort near Tokyo

Karuizawa is home to one of the most popular ski resorts located near Tokyo: the Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Area. Not only is it easily accessible from the capital in about one hour by bullet train, but it is also an extremely modern facility with various ski courses that accommodate the needs of every visitor.

In fact, the East High-speed Lift can also be used only for sightseeing by visitors who don't ski. Because it operates until late in the evening, it allows visitors to enjoy Karuizawa's nightscape.

The ski season lasts until March 31st. If you like winter sports, how about coming here?

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Karuizawa in Summer: A Retreat from the Heat

Karuizawa is especially famous as a summer retreat. Thanks to its high elevation, the air is cool even in the hot months of July and August. Ever since the Meiji period (1868-1912), Karuizawa has been a popular summer holiday resort for people living in the Tokyo area.

The beautiful Shiraito Falls and Kumoba Pond are just two of the scenic places that can be enjoyed in the summer. Below in this article, we introduce other great destinations to visit in Karuizawa.

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Karuizawa Area Guide

Karuizawa is a comparatively compact town, but each area has its own distinct tone, from the clusters of villas in Shin-Karuizawa and Kyu Karuizawa to the bubbling hot springs in Naka Karuizawa.

Shin-Karuizawa and Kyu-Karuizawa

Expanding outward from JR Karuizawa Station, Shin-Karuizawa is a haven for villa development. The high-class resort area two kilometers north of the station is called Kyu-Karuizawa, or Old Karuizawa. Kyu-Karuizawa is home to Karuizawa Ginza and the Kumoba Pond. The highlight of Shin-Karuizawa is the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.

Naka Karuizawa, Senga Falls

Naka Karuizawa is renowned for its hot springs. This is where you can find facilities like Sengataki Onsen and Hoshino Onsen, among others. The Karuizawa Kogen Church, the Senga Falls, as well as Harunire Terrace are just a few of its sightseeing spots.

Minami Karuizawa - The Southern Area

Represented by the Shiozawa Lake, the southern section of Karuizawa has its own uniquely elegant summer vibe, with art museums and rose gardens.

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Hotels in Karuizawa

As a resort area that was developed into an area for summer retreats, Karuizawa has many stylish wooden Western-style boardinghouses which can cost anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 yen per night. There are many different types of these places, which include delicious breakfasts and are pet-friendly. Choose one to your liking.

Naka Karuizawa also has traditional onsen inns. These are also priced around 5,000 to 10,000 yen a night. We recommend staying in this area for those who want to soak in the hot springs and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine.

The area also has many business and luxury hotels available on Booking.com. Three particularly well-reviewed hotels are The Prince Karuizawa, Hoshinoya Karuizawa and the Karuizawa Hotel Soyokaze. Let’s take a look at these three spots.

The Prince Karuizawa

Reasonably priced for a luxury hotel at 20,000 yen a night, this high-quality hotel offers excellent service. You can enjoy a Western-style breakfast while looking out at the hotel courtyard, which is popular with guests of all ranges. Guests also get special privileges like onsen admission, rental bicycle access and free morning coffee.

The Prince Karuizawa

Hoshinoya Karuizawa

One of the best luxury hotel chains in Japan, Hoshino Resorts, operates this Karuizawa Hotel. Enjoy first-rate service in your room, in the spa, and in the restaurants. Depending on your mood, you can choose from French, Italian, and Japanese dining options. One night is 40,000 yen.

Hoshinoya Karuizawa (reception)

Karuizawa Hotel Soyokaze

Recently gaining popularity as a pet-friendly hotel, the Soyokaze has a Karuizawa-esque cottage exterior. It stands out for its southern French cuisine offerings, which use plenty of locally sourced organic vegetables. Lodging for one night starts at 17,000 yen.

Karuizawa Hotel Soyokaze

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Enjoy Your Trip to Karuizawa

Karuizawa is a charming destination at any time of the year. Do take the time to explore it leisurely and recharge amidst nature with an overnight stay.