Karuizawa: Hotels Between Nature and Culture

Karuizawa combines nature experiences with a rich history: in Kyu-Karuizawa, a former trade route and a historic center recall different aspects of the area; in Oiwakejuku, its history as a post station and a museum offer a glimpse into the past. Gardens, forests, water and mountain views provide other points of interest. If you are planning a stay, these themes can help you choose which places to spend time exploring.

Landscapes and Views

Kumobaike Pond reflects the changing seasons in Karuizawa: fresh greenery stands out in spring, while autumn brings colorful foliage. A walking path about one kilometer long circles the pond; along the way, you can take in the landscape at your leisure. The pond is a five-minute taxi ride from both the Shinano Railway station and the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen station.

The Yukawa River rises at Shiraito Falls. Hundreds of underground streams tumble like white silk threads over a curved rock face, creating a refreshing atmosphere; the autumn foliage is also impressive. The bus ride from Karuizawa Station takes about 25 minutes, followed by a five-minute walk. Check the bus timetable before setting out.

The observation platform at Old Usui Pass lies on the border between Nagano and Gunma. From there, you can see the Jōmō Three Mountains, the Nikkō mountain range, Mount Asama and Yatsugatake. The autumn colors descending from the mountains can also be viewed across a wide area from the platform.

Gardens and Forest Trails

At Karuizawa Town Botanical Garden, the focus is on plants native to the Karuizawa Highlands. More than 1,600 species of trees and flowering plants from about 145 families grow across approximately 20,000 m². Walking paths run throughout the grounds, allowing you to explore the garden as a whole. A two-story exhibition house stands right next door. It provides information about seasonal changes in Karuizawa, notable plants and the garden’s conservation work.

National Karuizawa Wild Bird Forest lies at an elevation of about 1,000 meters and covers around 100 hectares of woodland. Its network of observation trails is about three kilometers long. Picchio’s “Wild Bird Forest Nature Watching” tour takes you through the forest, where you can observe different wild animals depending on the season. If you plan to join the tour, check the dates in advance.

Historic and Cultural Sites

The main street of Kyu-Karuizawa was once part of a route used by merchants traveling between the capitals of Kyoto and Edo, now Tokyo. Oiwakejuku developed as a post station at the junction of the Nakasendō and Hokkoku Kaidō. The Masugata Teahouse in Oiwakejuku retains its original form.

Oiwakejuku Museum of Local History exhibits materials ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era, with a focus on the early modern history of Oiwakejuku. Karuizawa Kogen Bunko, on the shore of Lake Shiozawa, offers a different cultural perspective. It opened in August 1985 so visitors could experience a diverse literary world, and also offers an impressive view of Mount Asama. Inside, you can also see the interior of a villa beloved by Tatsuo Hori, which was relocated here from old Karuizawa.

Getting Around Kyu-Karuizawa

Kyu-Karuizawa is about a 20-minute walk north of Karuizawa Station; the trip takes about five minutes by ring bus. Service and travel times may change, so check the route for your travel date. In the Kyu-Karuizawa area, you can get around on foot, by bicycle or by local bus. The historic center is lined with boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

Harunire Terrace is a small cluster of nine buildings connected by wooden decks. It stretches among more than 100 naturally growing Japanese zelkova trees along a clear stream. The complex includes 16 independent shops and restaurants; the mix may change.

Discover more destinations: Miyota, Tateshina.

Return to the regional travel overview: Kitasaku District.