Karuizawa

Karuizawa Lush with Greenery

Karuizawa sits in the southeast of Nagano Prefecture, about 130 kilometers (81 miles) northwest of Tokyo, at an altitude of roughly 1,000 meters (0.6 miles). It’s Japan’s most celebrated highland resort town, long known as “Tokyo’s backyard garden”.

Cool, refreshing summers make it a perfect escape from the city heat. Also, the town offers nearly everything: century-old buildings, natural scenery, cultural venues, shopping streets, and excellent food. Therefore, it suits travelers who prefer a slow-paced gateway. Just 1.5 hours from Tokyo, you can cover the main sights on a day trip; or stay for two days, you’ll be able to take everything in at a far more leisurely rhythm.

What’s more, it was on the local tennis court that a former Japanese emperor and his empress first met and fell in love; John Lennon of the Beatles spent every summer here with his family. That kind of famous following has only added to the town’s legendary charm.

Step into the Forest, Find Some Quiet

The forest is the soul of Karuizawa. You’ll find water everywhere, from waterfalls and lakes to streams. Wander into the woods and leave the noise of the city behind.

Shiraito Waterfall

This is Karuizawa’s most famous natural attraction, but it’s nothing like the thundering waterfalls you might expect. At only about 3 meters (10 feet) tall but 70 meters (230 feet) wide, water flows gently down a nearly semicircular rock face. Hundreds of delicate streams hang like threads of white silk over the moss below, which is where the name “Shiraito” comes from. There’s no loud roar, just a soft curtain of water and drifting mist. It feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

The fall are open all day, every day, and admission is free. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety. In summer and winter, the falls are lit up with colorful lights. Check the official website ahead of time for exact dates.

Kumoba Pond

Kumoba Pound goes by the lovely name “Swan Lake”. Legend says white swans once stopped here. However, swans are rare these days, but wild ducks glide in the pound year-round. The pound generally presents a narrow and elongated shape, resembling a footprint, which has led to a local legend about a giant leaving his mark. The water is as still as a mirror, reflecting the surrounding forest. Especially in autumn, maple leaves form a red river reflected on the water, vivid and brilliant like an oil painting.

Kumoba Pound is open 24 hours a day, year-round. No tickets are needed. You can come whenever fits your schedule, whether early morning to enjoy the mist, a daytime walk, or evening to watch the sunset on the water. Anytime is a good time.

More to Explore

If you have extra time, consider Shiozawa Lake. It’s the only lake where you can rent a boat, and there is an art museum and rose garden nearby. Or you can visit Mount Asama, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains and an active volcano. Just keep in mind that volcanic activity can affect access, so be sure to check the latest conditions before you go.

Hiking in Forest

Snow Scenery of Kumoba Pond

Explore the Church, Step Back in Time

The romantic side of Karuizawa also hides in the churches tucked away in the deep forest. Built by foreign missionaries in the 19th century, these west-style churches have stood for over a hundred years, and remain some of the most photogenic spots in the town. If you’re interested in architecture, they are well worth a visit.

St. Paul’s Catholic Church is the most iconic church in Karuizawa, completed in 1935 and built entirely of wood. Its steeply angled triangular roof and tall spire peek out from the trees, visible from far away. Inside, the beams form a large X shape that brings to mind a sacred cross. Opening hours are from 7:00 - 18:00. Admission is free, but visitors cannot enter during ceremonies or mass.

In addition, two more archetectural gems are worth seeking out. Karuizawa Kogen Church is a wooden triangular church and is one of Japan’s most popular wedding paradise. With harp music playing inside, it feels deeply romantic. Stone Church, made of stones and glass, has a large curved structure. Sunlight filters through the arched ceiling onto the stone walls, creating a unique atmosphere.

No Need to Worry: Eating and Staying Are Easy

As a long-established resort destination, Karuizawa has well-developed supporting facilities, so you don’t have to worry about food or accommodation. Tucked in the forest is a wooden chalet shopping street, with restaurants, bakeries, dessert shops, and coffee shops abounding. For places to stay, options range from luxury resort hotel to hot spring inns and guesthouses. Just book ahead. To experience the local vibe, you can head to Ginza, a street with a hundred years of history. Lined with old brick buildings on both sides, it sells local specialties such as jams, beer, and tea snacks.

Why Not Go for A Bike Ride?

Cycling in Karuizawa

With scattered attractions and cool weather, Karuizawa is perfect for outdoor cycling. There are several bicycle rental shops at the north exit of the Karuizawa Station. Note that the highland has gentle slopes, so an electric bike is recommended. Prices generally run from 1500 - 3000 yen (9.4 - 18.8 USD) per day. You can follow a classic route starting from Karuizawa Station, passing Kumoba Pond, Old Ginza Street, and the church area. The whole route is about 8 kilometers (5 miles), so it’s best to set aside half a day.

Useful Transportation Information

The easiest way to reach Karuizawa is by Hokuriku Shinkansen. It takes 1.5 hours directly from Tokyo, or about 1 hour from Nagano. Just get off at Karuizawa Station.

Within 1 - 2 kilometers of Karuizawa Station, you’ll find Ginza, the Prince Shopping Plaza, and Kumoba Pound. It takes about 15 - 20 minutes on foot, or 10 - 15 minutes by bike, to explore these spots. For places further away, like Shiraito Waterfall about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the station, the best choice is the local loop bus, which takes about 40 minutes.

Tips

1. Due to its high altitude, Karuizawa is cooler than the city. Even in summer, temperatures can drop to 18℃ (64℉), so it’s a good idea to bring warm clothes.

2. Bears may appear in the mountain areas. If you go hiking, bring a bear bell and keep an eye on the official Karuizawa Line account for updates on bear sightings.