What Is Karuizawa? A Highland Resort About an Hour from Tokyo
Karuizawa (軽井沢) is one of Japan’s most famous highland resort towns, located in Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, in eastern Nagano Prefecture.
At an elevation of about 900 to 1,000 meters, it is loved as a summer retreat for its cool climate and beautiful natural surroundings.
In 1886 (Meiji 19), Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw visited the area and called it a “roofless hospital,” which helped spark its development as a summer resort for foreigners.
Even today, pockets of European-style atmosphere remain, and the town is popular year-round as a destination for nature, culture, and shopping.
Its easy access—about one hour from Tokyo by the Hokuriku Shinkansen—is also a major attraction.
Top Things to See in Karuizawa
1. Old Karuizawa Ginza Street: Stroll a Historic Shopping Street
This is Karuizawa’s signature shopping street, with about 500 meters of local specialties, craft shops, and cafés lining the road.
You can enjoy a relaxed stroll while taking in historic Western-style buildings and a charming streetscape.
Recommended local favorites include homemade jams, bakeries, and craft beer (such as Karuizawa Kōgen Beer and Yona Yona Ale).
It’s especially lively in summer, but early morning tends to be quieter and easier to walk.
2. Shiraito Falls: A Delicate Curtain of Water
One of Karuizawa’s representative natural attractions, this waterfall features spring water flowing down a rock face like countless white threads, about 3 meters high and 70 meters wide.
Because it is fed by underground water from Mount Asama, it is said to remain relatively clear even after rain.
In summer it feels refreshingly cool, and in autumn (mid-October to early November) you can enjoy beautiful scenery together with fall colors.
In winter, illuminations may be held on some occasions.
It’s about a 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the falls.
3. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
A large outlet mall with about 240 stores.
With a great location just a short walk from the south exit of Karuizawa Station, it’s ideal for people who want to combine shopping and sightseeing.
Inside the spacious grounds, there are green lawn areas and ponds, offering relaxing spaces between shopping sessions.
4. Karuizawa Ōga Hall
A pentagon-shaped hall hosting classical concerts and events, donated to Karuizawa by Norio Ōga.
It features beautiful architectural design with the warmth of wood and excellent acoustics.
If you love music, check the concert schedule in advance.
5. Karuizawa Kōgen Church
A historic church that traces its origins to the “Arts and Free Education Seminar” launched in 1921 (Taishō 10) by figures including Kanzō Uchimura.
Its appeal lies in the beautiful scenery where wooden architecture harmonizes with the surrounding forest.
Beyond weddings, services are held on some days, allowing you to spend quiet, sacred time.
The Christmas-season Candle Night is also a popular event.
Best Time to Visit Karuizawa
- Spring (April to May): Fresh greenery emerges, and cherry blossoms and wildflowers bloom—an especially beautiful season.
- Summer (June to August): Popular as a cool summer retreat; it’s recommended to relax leisurely in forests and by lakes.
- Autumn (mid-October to early November): Fall colors are spectacular, with Kumoba Pond (Kumoba-ike) and the Old Karuizawa area as key highlights.
- Winter (December to March): Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort. Illuminations and Christmas events are also appealing.
Access
Address
Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Getting there
- By train
- About 60–70 minutes from Tokyo Station by the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
- By car
- About 20 minutes from Usui-Karuizawa IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway.
Parking
There are parking lots around Karuizawa Station and at major attractions, but weekends during summer vacation, Golden Week, and the autumn foliage season can be extremely crowded.
To avoid traffic jams, it’s also recommended to combine the Shinkansen with local rental bicycles.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy Karuizawa
1. Explore Nature by Cycling
Karuizawa has well-developed cycling routes, making bicycle sightseeing a popular choice.
Rental bikes are available around the station for about 500 to 1,500 yen per day, including electric-assist options.
Recommended routes include the Old Karuizawa area, Kumoba Pond, and a tour of the church area.
2. Enjoy Local Food
Karuizawa has many restaurants and cafés where you can savor fresh highland vegetables, Shinshū soba, and wine.
Bakery hopping in Old Karuizawa Ginza and comparing locally made jams are also popular.
At “Karuizawa Hatsuji Ichiba,” you can buy fresh vegetables and fruit directly from local farmers.
3. Stay at a Forest Resort
Karuizawa offers many luxury hotels, cottages, and pensions, letting you enjoy a special stay in the forest.
Relaxing at Hoshino Area’s Harunire Terrace or refreshing at Tonbo-no-yu (a day-use hot spring) is also a great option.
Practical Travel Tips for Visitors
What to Wear and Bring
- Comfortable shoes: Sneakers are recommended for cycling and walking.
- Light jacket: Even in summer, mornings and evenings can drop below 15°C, so bringing a light jacket or cardigan is reassuring.
- Insect protection: In forested areas, bug spray can be useful.
- Camera: Essential for taking photos of nature and historic buildings.
Important Notes
- Peak-season crowds: Traffic congestion becomes severe during summer vacation (especially August), Golden Week, and the autumn foliage season. Consider visiting on weekdays or departing early in the morning.
- Be mindful of manners: As a quiet resort town, remember to be considerate of other visitors and local residents. Please avoid loud voices and leaving trash in villa areas.
- Bear caution: Asiatic black bears may appear in forest areas. When hiking, carrying a bear bell is recommended.
Karuizawa is an appealing resort town with nature, culture, and shopping all in one place.
Enjoy its seasonal beauty and spend a special moment here.
