The Perfect Day Trip or Weekend Stay in Karuizawa

Nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is a resort town that offers a soothing, lush escape and a side of Japan most often kept secret from international travelers. Great for an overnight trip, a one-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo whisks you away from the clatter of the city into a tranquil resort town where nature flourishes.

Whether you’re seeking respite in beautiful landscapes, yearning for the simple joy of a peaceful stroll, wanting to spoil yourself with a shopping spree, or excited to tickle your taste buds with local cuisine, Karuizawa awaits. 

Kumoba Pond, affectionately known as Swan Lake, is an idyllic destination to kickstart your Karuizawa adventure. What’s exceptional about Kumoba Pond is its natural adaptability to each season. Autumn, in particular, holds a special charm. During this time, the trees that envelop the pond are ablaze with color. Their red, orange, and golden leaves reflect in the water, creating a breathtaking image. It’s a mesmerizing canvas of fall foliage that looks straight out of a fairytale.

However, the beauty of Kumoba Pond is not confined to just one season. When winter arrives, the lake transforms into a frosty wonderland, with its surrounding trees dusted with snow. It’s a magical, monochrome world that offers a distinct charm and promises exceptional photographs.

Kumoba Pond is not just a feast for the eyes. The surrounding forest resonates with the melodic sounds of local birds, and the clean, crisp mountain air fills your lungs as you breathe, rejuvenating your body from within.

Situated a short drive from Kumoba Pond is Hotel Cypress Karuizawa, a property that seamlessly combines the serenity of nature with the luxury of modern living. This sophisticated hotel, located near Karuizawa station, has an inviting ambiance that extends from its exterior architecture into its interior design.

Upon entering you’ll be greeted with a warm, open lobby that sets the tone for your stay; relaxing, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed. The rooms offer an ideal blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and Western comfort. Large windows flood the space with natural light and provide amazing views of the surrounding greenery. With amenities like a private balcony and a private outdoor bath, your comfort is ensured all weekend long.

When hunger strikes, two on-site restaurants serve a variety of dishes. You can relish French cuisine at Restaurant La Table, or enjoy a Japanese teppanyaki at Teppanyaki & Amiyaki Dining Bian. If you’re a wine connoisseur, don’t miss the chance to sip and enjoy some live music at Lounge La Cascade, the hotel's lounge and bar.

Perhaps the most enticing feature is their public hot spring facility. The natural hot spring waters are believed to have healing properties, perfect for a soothing dip after a day of sightseeing. They offer both indoor and open-air baths, as well as a sauna so you can melt away any remaining stress.

Hidden away in the lush forests of Karuizawa is an attraction that captivates its visitors with its ethereal beauty — Shiraito Falls. The name, when translated, means “White Thread Falls”, which perfectly describes the water’s delicate descent, reminiscent of countless threads of white silk. This 10-foot high, 230-foot-wide cascade is part of the Shiraito Highland Way, a trail that offers a series of breathtaking sceneries.

Visiting Shiraito Falls is like stepping into a masterpiece of nature. The water that feeds into the falls originates from the groundwater buried deep within Mount Asama, an active volcano. Because of this, the falls flow all year-round. The way the sunlight catches the water’s spray, especially during the early mornings, adds an enchanting allure to the scene. It’s a sensory treat, with the calming sound of cascading water mingling with the songs of local wildlife.

In the colder months, the scene transforms dramatically as the falls partially freeze over, creating crystal icicles that dress the waterfall like a diamond necklace. The falls are even illuminated at night during the winter months, creating a dazzling outdoor spectacle.

Around the falls, you’ll find several walking paths and trails, leading you through verdant forests and past smaller, yet equally stunning waterfalls like the Ryugaeshi Waterfall. After taking in the fall’s beauty, you might consider exploring the nearby Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary, which houses a diverse array of Japanese bird species within a huge walkable space.

After a day on your feet, finding a welcoming place to rest your head becomes paramount. Located just a 20-minute drive away from Shiraito Falls, the Hotel Karuizawa Longinghouse is an ideal spot for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury.

This hotel prides itself on creating a warm, homely atmosphere. It features tastefully decorated rooms that exude a classic charm, blending modern amenities with elements reminiscent of traditional Japanese inns.

Notable amenities include an on-site restaurant that serves a variety of dishes using locally-sourced ingredients, a delightful way to sample Karuizawa’s culinary delights. If relaxation is on your agenda, their open-air hot spring bath, surrounded by beautiful greenery, provides a quiet retreat where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the moment. The hotel also features a fully equipped beauty salon and spa where you can experience a range of courses designed to eliminate fatigue.

Sometimes discovering a new place involves indulging in retail therapy, and Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Dori and Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza make it a genuinely enjoyable affair. These shopping destinations, each with a unique flair, offer an immersive experience that extends beyond mere retail indulgence.

Start your shopping journey at Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Dori, a charming shopping street located at the heart of the old Karuizawa area. As you stroll along this elegant promenade lined with tall trees, you’ll discover an array of quaint boutiques, local handicraft shops, bakeries, and cafes. This shopping district has a storied history that adds an enriching layer to your shopping experience. Each establishment here echoes the distinct charm of Karuizawa, offering curated goods that are reflective of the town’s culture and aesthetics.

While Ginza Dori exudes a nostalgic charm, the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza offers a more contemporary shopping experience. Located just east of Karuizawa Station, this expansive open-air mall features over 200 shops, including high-end global brands and designer outlets. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, homewares, or unique souvenirs, this shopping plaza has got you covered.

In addition to retail therapy, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza also offers an array of dining options to satisfy your gastronomic cravings. With everything from cozy cafes, trendy eateries to traditional Japanese restaurants, there’s a meal to suit every taste bud.

For visitors seeking a combination of convenience and comfort, Karuizawa Prince Hotel West is a delightful option. This hotel’s exceptional location within a stone’s throw away from Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza means you can shop until you drop and return to comfort without having to travel far.

Karuizawa Prince Hotel West is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable stay amid the beautiful nature of Karuizawa. The hotel’s room options range from cozy twin rooms to spacious cottages that can house the whole family. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring a relaxing environment for guests.

An exciting feature of this hotel is its access to outdoor activities. Depending on the season, guests can enjoy golf at their golf course or ski at the Prince Snow Resort, both located within the hotel grounds.

Adventure seekers will find the Usui Pass, just a short distance from Karuizawa, an irresistible lure. Offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activity, the Usui Pass guarantees an exciting and enriching day trip experience.

The Usui Pass has long been a crucial transportation route, connecting Gunma and Nagano Prefectures. The old rail route that used to traverse the pass is now a hiking trail that houses the Megane-bashi, a double-arched red brick bridge that stands as a monument to Japan’s early industrial revolution era. This beautiful structure makes for an iconic photo backdrop, especially when the vibrant fall colors or the white winter snow envelops it.

The hiking trail along the old railway route is an experience in itself. This two-mile long trail, adorned with historical artifacts, signs, and tunnels from the railway's operational days, offers a trip down memory lane.

To elevate your Karuizawa trip, consider a stay at Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa Hotel, the epitome of elegance and comfort. Located conveniently close to the Usui Pass, Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa Hotel makes for the perfect reset retreat after an adventure-filled day. This hotel's distinctive architecture instantly captivates the eye with its old-school but classy charm. As you step in, the warm and inviting ambiance envelops you, making it feel like a home away from home.

Each room at Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa Hotel has been designed with attention to detail, ensuring optimum comfort. With options ranging from deluxe rooms to grand suites, every guest can find accommodation that fits their needs.

The hotel's amenities are curated to ensure a satisfying stay for each guest. Dine at their in-house restaurant, Restaurant Arpeggio, where you can savor a continental fusion cuisine incorporating Japanese, Chinese, and Italian elements into traditional French recipes. Take a dip at the hotel's indoor or outdoor hot springs, where mineral-rich water and tranquil views soak into your soul, or get pampered at the hotel's spa, where you can indulge in a relaxing massage or beauty treatment.