20 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Karuizawa | Dec 2025
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What activities can I do in Karuizawa?
Karuizawa is a beautiful resort town located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Here are some of the top things to do in Karuizawa: 1. Visit Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street: Explore the charming old town area of Karuizawa, which is filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and try delicious local food. 2. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: This outlet mall offers a wide range of international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. It's a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists. 3. Hoshino Onsen: Relax and rejuvenate at one of Karuizawa's famous hot springs. Hoshino Onsen is a beautiful traditional hot spring resort where you can soak in the healing waters and enjoy the serene surroundings. 4. Karuizawa Kogen Church: Visit the iconic wooden church, which is a symbol of Karuizawa. The church is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for weddings and photography. 5. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort: If you visit during the winter season, don't miss the opportunity to go skiing or snowboarding at the Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort. The resort offers various slopes for all skill levels and provides equipment rental services. 6. Shiraito Falls: Take a short trip outside of Karuizawa to visit the stunning Shiraito Falls. This picturesque waterfall is known for its delicate, thin streams of water that resemble white threads, hence the name ""Shiraito,"" which means ""white threads"" in Japanese. 7. Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church: Another beautiful church in Karuizawa, the Shaw Memorial Church is a historic building with stunning stained glass windows. It is a popular spot for weddings and also offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. 8. Karuizawa Prince Hotel East Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this scenic golf course surrounded by beautiful mountains. The course offers various challenges and stunning views of the surrounding nature. 9. Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary: Nature lovers should visit this sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of bird species. You can enjoy bird-watching and take a leisurely walk along the trails while surrounded by nature. 10. Karuizawa Taliesin: This art museum and park complex is dedicated to the works of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Explore the exhibitions showcasing his designs and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum. These are just a few of the many things to do in Karuizawa. Whether you're looking for shopping, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, Karuizawa has something to offer for everyone.
When is the best time to travel to Karuizawa?
The best time to travel to Karuizawa, Japan is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, with cherry blossoms blooming in spring and beautiful foliage in autumn. Spring in Karuizawa is particularly popular due to the cherry blossoms. The town is filled with stunning pink cherry trees, creating a picturesque atmosphere. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Autumn is also a fantastic time to visit Karuizawa as the leaves change color, creating a breathtaking landscape. The town is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. You can take leisurely walks along the many trails, visit the stunning Usui Pass Observation Platform, or explore the famous Shiraito Falls. It's important to note that Karuizawa can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to book accommodations and plan activities in advance.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Karuizawa
Karuizawa is a popular tourist destination located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, cool climate, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some aspects of Karuizawa's travel culture that you should know: 1. Nature and Outdoor Activities: Karuizawa is surrounded by beautiful forests, mountains, and lakes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, cycling, golfing, and horseback riding. The area is particularly famous for its autumn foliage, which attracts many tourists during the fall season. 2. History and Culture: Karuizawa has a rich history dating back to the Edo period. The town was a popular summer retreat for foreign diplomats and missionaries during the Meiji era, which has left a lasting influence on its culture. Many old Western-style villas and churches can still be found in the area, adding to its charm. 3. Shopping and Dining: Karuizawa is known for its upscale shopping outlets, which offer a wide range of international and domestic brands. The town also has a vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants serving both Japanese and international cuisine. Visitors can try local delicacies such as soba noodles, Shinshu beef, and freshly picked fruits. 4. Onsen (Hot Springs): The region around Karuizawa is blessed with natural hot springs, which are a popular attraction for visitors. Relaxing in a traditional Japanese onsen is a great way to unwind and experience the local culture. Many hotels and ryokans in Karuizawa offer onsen facilities for their guests. 5. Art and Music: Karuizawa has a thriving art and music scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and music festivals taking place throughout the year. The Karuizawa Ohga Hall is a renowned concert venue that hosts classical music performances by both domestic and international artists. 6. Karuizawa Prince Hotel: The Karuizawa Prince Hotel is a landmark in the town and offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cottages and villas. The hotel complex also features a golf course, ski resort, shopping mall, and various recreational facilities. Overall, Karuizawa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing and enriching travel experience in Japan.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Karuizawa
When visiting Karuizawa, Japan, there are several shopping lists and souvenirs you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Karuizawa Tote Bags: These stylish tote bags often feature the iconic Karuizawa scenery and make for a practical and fashionable souvenir. 2. Local Sweets and Snacks: Karuizawa is known for its delicious sweets and snacks. Some popular options include Karuizawa Chocolate, Karuizawa Baumkuchen (layered cake), and Karuizawa Cheese Tart. 3. Karuizawa Whisky: Karuizawa is home to a renowned whisky distillery. Consider picking up a bottle of Karuizawa whisky as a special souvenir for whisky enthusiasts. 4. Karuizawa Craft Beer: Karuizawa has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering unique and flavorful beers. Look out for Karuizawa craft beers and bring back a taste of the local brewing culture. 5. Karuizawa Wood Crafts: Karuizawa is known for its traditional wood crafts, such as lacquerware and wooden utensils. These handmade items make for beautiful and authentic souvenirs. 6. Karuizawa Artwork: Karuizawa is an artistic hub, attracting many artists. Consider purchasing a piece of artwork, such as paintings or ceramics, to bring back a unique and meaningful souvenir. 7. Karuizawa Stationery: Karuizawa has a variety of stationery stores that offer beautifully designed notebooks, pens, and other writing materials. These make for practical and aesthetically pleasing souvenirs. 8. Karuizawa Apparel: Karuizawa is known for its fashion scene, with several local boutiques offering stylish clothing and accessories. Consider picking up a piece of Karuizawa-designed apparel as a fashionable souvenir. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding bringing back food and alcohol products before purchasing them as souvenirs.
Karuizawa travel review
Karuizawa: A Serene Escape in Japan's Northern Alps Nestled in the lush greenery of the Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the bustling cities of Japan. Famous for its cool climate, stunning natural landscapes, and luxurious resorts, this charming town has become a popular destination for both locals and international travelers seeking a tranquil retreat. One of the main attractions of Karuizawa is its natural beauty. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Northern Alps, the town is blessed with breathtaking scenery all year round. In spring, vibrant cherry blossoms paint the streets and parks with delicate shades of pink, creating a picture-perfect setting for leisurely strolls. Summer brings relief from the heat as visitors can enjoy refreshing hikes through the verdant forests and explore the numerous waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes that dot the area. Autumn transforms Karuizawa into a kaleidoscope of colors, with the foliage displaying vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. And in winter, the town becomes a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its world-class slopes. Beyond its natural wonders, Karuizawa is also known for its upscale resorts and luxurious accommodations. The town has long been a favorite retreat for the wealthy and influential, who have built elegant villas and exclusive retreats in the area. Many of these historic buildings have been converted into high-end hotels, offering visitors a taste of refined living in a serene environment. From traditional ryokans to modern resorts, Karuizawa provides a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's taste. In addition to its natural beauty and luxurious resorts, Karuizawa is also a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. The town is home to a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, museums, and art festivals showcasing both local and international talent. The Karuizawa Picture Book Museum, for example, is a must-visit for book lovers, featuring a collection of over 10,000 picture books from around the world. The Hiroshi Senju Museum showcases the works of the renowned Japanese painter, while the Karuizawa Ohga Hall hosts classical music concerts and performances throughout the year. For those seeking a taste of retail therapy, Karuizawa is dotted with charming shopping streets and outlets. Karuizawa Ginza is a bustling shopping district lined with trendy boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops, offering a delightful mix of local crafts, fashion, and gourmet treats. The Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, on the other hand, is a haven for bargain hunters, with over 200 brand-name stores offering discounts on a wide range of products. When it comes to dining, Karuizawa does not disappoint. The town boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors. Fresh local produce, such as Shinshu beef and soba noodles, are highlights of the local gastronomy. Visitors can savor these delicacies in cozy traditional eateries or indulge in fine dining experiences at the upscale restaurants located within the resorts. Getting to Karuizawa is easy, with frequent train services connecting the town to Tokyo in just under an hour. This makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway from the bustling capital. Whether you are seeking tranquility, natural beauty, cultural experiences, or a luxurious retreat, Karuizawa offers it all, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Japan.