1
Karuizawa Hoshino Area

A day-trip resort area surrounded by the rich nature at the foot of Mount Asama

A resort area operated by Hoshino Resorts, spreading across the Naka-Karuizawa area at the foot of Mount Asama. It is used by many people, not only guests staying at Hoshinoya Karuizawa, Karuizawa Hotel Bleston Court, and BEB5 Karuizawa, but also by day-trippers. The gateway to the area is Harunire Terrace. In addition to gourmet spots representing Karuizawa such as Sawamura, Maruyama Coffee, and Sekireibashi Kawakami-an, you can also find cute variety shops. It is recommended to start your exploration of the surrounding area from here.

After enjoying the great outdoors, relax in a hot spring with water flowing directly from the source

A place you definitely want to stop by within the area is the Karuizawa Kogen Church. The light-ups during summer vacation and the Christmas season every year are popular. If you want to enjoy nature, head to Picchio. They hold authentic nature tours all year round. In winter, the Kera-ike Pond in front of Picchio becomes an ice skating rink. Skating in the great outdoors is also recommended.

Wrap up your area exploration at Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu. Heal your body and soul at this day-trip hot spring with free-flowing source water. Parking is also available within the area. Access is also possible by local bus from Karuizawa Station.

Local
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Harunire Terrace has many shops with terrace seating where pets are welcome. It is best to check which shops are "pet-friendly" and review the etiquette rules before you head out to ensure a more enjoyable visit.

Karuizawa Hoshino Area

• Hoshino, Karuizawa-machi, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 15 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Shop 10:00-18:00
  Restaurant 11:00-22:00 (21:00 L.O.)
  *Varies by season and store
• Open every day
• 050-3537-3553
• Paid (Free parking time can be extended by up to 2 hours with a total purchase of 2,000 yen or more at participating stores)

2
Karuizawa Taliesin

An art forest spreading along the lakeside, perfect for a leisurely stroll with the family

A comprehensive resort facility where art museums, leisure facilities, restaurants, and shops are gathered on a site of approximately 100,000 square meters centered around Lake Shiojiri. "Taliesin" means "shining brow" in Welsh, and is said to be derived from "Taliesin," a fairy who governs art in Celtic mythology.
Within the grounds, there are scattered facilities such as the Peynet Museum, which houses works by French painter Raymond Peynet, the Fukasawa Koko Art Museum of Wild Flowers, and Suikyuso, a relocated villa once used by French literature scholar Tokiko Asabuki, making it a place where you can easily enjoy half a day.

Exhibiting the mountain villa where Tatsuo Hori of "The Wind Has Risen" spent his summers in Karuizawa

Located on the grounds of the Karuizawa Museum of Literature, a short distance from the shores of Lake Shiojiri, is the relocated mountain villa that once stood in Kamanosawa, Old Karuizawa. It is said that the author Tatsuo Hori, known for works such as "Beautiful Village" and "The Wind Has Risen," purchased it from an American and stayed there every summer starting in 1941. This charming building, which was later used as a summer studio by the painter couple Shozo and Beniko Fukazawa, is well worth a visit.
Additionally, the Karuizawa Museum of Literature exhibits handwritten manuscripts and personal belongings left behind by literary masters associated with Karuizawa, such as Takeo Arishima and Yaeko Nogami.

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Lake Shiozawa, where Karuizawa Taliesin is located, is the only place in Karuizawa where you can go boating, making it a recommended spot for families. There are two types of boats: rowboats and pedal boats. There is also a "Kids' Plaza" for children to play in and a go-kart track.

Karuizawa Taliesin

• 217 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 10 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Approx. 25 minutes on the Karuizawa Town Loop Bus (East/Southbound line) from JR Karuizawa Station, get off at "Kazakoshi Park" and walk for approx. 15 minutes
• 9:00–17:00 (10:00–16:00 in December and January)
• Irregular holidays
  *Please check here for details.
• Adults 900 yen, Children (elementary/junior high school students) 400 yen
  Peynet Museum (includes admission fee) Adults 1,100 yen, Children 500 yen
  Karuizawa Kogen Library Adults 800 yen, Children 400 yen *Admission fee separate
  Beniko Fukasawa Wild Flower Museum Adults 600 yen, Children 300 yen *Admission fee separate
  Museum Set Ticket (includes admission fee, Peynet Museum, Karuizawa Kogen Library, and Beniko Fukasawa Wild Flower Museum) Adults 1,600 yen, Children 800 yen
  *Infants and toddlers (0-5 years old) are free for all
• 0267-46-6161
• Paid

3
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

A resort-style shopping mall where you can enjoy a full day with family and friends

A lush, green shopping mall spreading out right in front of the south exit of Karuizawa Station. Approximately 240 stores are gathered on a vast site of about 260,000 square meters. The premises are divided into 10 shopping and gourmet zones, making it possible to spend an entire day there. With a rich variety of shops ranging from high-end brands to casual apparel, as well as general goods, souvenirs, and local cuisine, there is never a dull moment for visitors of all ages. It is recommended to obtain a floor map from the official website in advance to plan your shopping and dining before you visit.

Many shops also allow pets inside

Services for kids and babies are also well-equipped, including a "Kids Park" with various playground equipment located in the "Shibafu no Hiroba" (Lawn Plaza) on the premises. Stroller rentals are also available (advance reservation required).
Furthermore, the abundance of pet-friendly services is unique to Karuizawa. In the "Tree Mall" area, where pet-related shops are concentrated, there are many stores that allow pets to enter. You can also enter the "Shibafu no Hiroba" as long as your pet is on a leash. There are also pet-specific restrooms and foot-washing stations.

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When it comes to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, the illuminations that decorate the area around the Garden Mall pond are also highly recommended. They take place every day from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, regardless of the season.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

• Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 3-minute walk from JR Karuizawa Station
• 10:00–19:00 (varies by season)
• Irregular holidays
• 0267-42-5211
• Free for the first 2 hours after entry. 100 yen per hour thereafter. *Free all day with purchases of 30,000 yen or more

4
Kyukaruizawa Ginza Street

The main street of Kyu-Karuizawa, lined with souvenir shops and popular bakeries

Karuizawa's main street, known as "Kyu-Karu Ginza." Stretching approximately 750 meters from the Kyu-Karu Rotary to the "Tsuruya Ryokan," the street is lined with Karuizawa's iconic restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and bakeries. This area corresponds to the old Nakasendo road, where the Karuizawa-shuku post station was located during the Edo period. Since the Taisho era, it has served as the gateway to Karuizawa, bustling as a villa destination for foreigners and business leaders. Today, it remains a popular spot that every visitor to Karuizawa should visit at least once, with many tourists enjoying shopping and eating on the go on weekends.

Take a short trip to the Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel

If you want to take a break while strolling, we recommend stopping by the "Karuizawa Tourist Association Building," which features an impressive retro exterior. Inside, you will find a rest area, as well as paid restrooms (100 yen) and a nursing room. After fully enjoying Kyu-Karu Ginza, if you have extra time, take a short trip to the "Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel." This wooden church nestled in the forest was built by Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw and others, and is said to be the oldest church in Karuizawa.

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For food to enjoy while walking around Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza, we recommend the 300-year-old Japanese confectionery shop, Chimoto Sohonten. Their signature product, "Chimoto Mochi"—made with gyuhi (a soft mochi) using Okinawan brown sugar and kneaded with Shinshu walnuts—and their shaved ice made with natural ice are highly recommended.

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street

• 634 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 3 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Take the Seibu Kanko Bus bound for "Kusatsu Onsen" from the JR Karuizawa Station North Exit for about 3 minutes, and get off at "Kyu-Karuizawa" immediately.
• Varies by store
• Varies by store
• 0267-42-5538
• Paid (use nearby parking lots)

5
Shiraito Falls

A famous waterfall where groundwater flows down like threads from the rock face of a deep forest

Shiraito Falls is located along the "Shiraito Highland Way," a scenic toll road you reach by passing through Mikasa Street from the Kyu-Karuizawa area. With a drop of about 3 meters and a width of about 70 meters, the entire waterfall spreads out along the rock face. Formed by groundwater gushing from the rock surface, you can enjoy the mystical sight of water cascading down like silk threads. The surrounding area is a quiet forest, creating an atmosphere so peaceful you might want to watch it forever if time permits. You can experience the beauty of each season, from fresh greenery in summer to autumn leaves and snowy landscapes in winter.

During the summer, there is also a magical projection mapping display.

The walking path along the mountain stream from Shiraito Highland Way to Shiraito Falls is also pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the nature characteristic of Karuizawa.
When visiting Shiraito Falls in the summer, be sure to check out the projection mapping. The "Karuizawa Shiraito Falls Midsummer Illumination" is held every year from late July to late August. The fantastical world illuminated in blue and purple is a must-see.
In addition, during the winter, Shiraito Falls is illuminated for a total of about 12 days, divided into three periods: Christmas, New Year's, and Valentine's Day. You can see special displays unique to this time of year.

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Along the Shiraito Highland Way, there are free parking lots, restrooms, and souvenir shops. The "salt-grilled yamame trout" sold at the shops is exquisite, so be sure to give it a try.

Shiraito Falls (Karuizawa)

• Nagakura (Kose), Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• About 25 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Take the Kusakaru Kotsu Bus bound for "Kusatsu Onsen" from JR Karuizawa Station for about 25 minutes, and get off at "Shiraito no Taki" and walk for about 3 minutes.
• 24 hours
• Open every day
• Free
• Free

6
Karuizawa Kogen Church

A historic church where many cultural figures such as Hakushu Kitahara and Toson Shimazaki gathered.

A historic church nestled in the beautiful forest of the Karuizawa Hoshino Area in Naka-Karuizawa. It was born from the "Artistic Freedom Education Seminar" held in 1921 (Taisho 10), which brought together many cultural figures and celebrities such as Hakushu Kitahara and Toson Shimazaki. The spirit of an "open church where people gather" has been passed down to the present day, warmly welcoming all who visit. The name "Hoshino Yugakudo" engraved at the entrance of the church was given by Kanzo Uchimura, a Christian evangelist of the Meiji and Taisho eras. It is based on the philosophy born from the Artistic Freedom Education Seminar: "To play is also good, to play is also to learn."

The "pastor's house" standing next to the church is a place of reunion where you can always return.

The church is open to everyone for viewing. If you cannot enter due to a wedding or other event, please visit the "Pastor's House" next door. Panels introducing the history of Karuizawa Kogen Church and seasonal events are displayed, along with photos and messages from those who held their weddings at the church. It also serves as a place to welcome back those who were married at the church at any time, and many couples revisit this place at various milestones in their lives. In addition to the weekly Sunday morning service, events where the forest in front of the church is enveloped in the light of lantern candles during the summer and Christmas seasons are also popular.

Local
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The summer and Christmas events are held at night (by reservation only). You can spend a wonderful time with your loved ones amidst the candlelight and starlight. We recommend visiting after having dinner at Harunire Terrace.

Karuizawa Kogen Church

• Hoshino, Karuizawa-machi, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• About 20 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• From JR Karuizawa Station, take the Seibu Kanko Bus bound for "Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu" for about 20 minutes, and walk for about 3 minutes from the final stop.
• 10:00–17:00 (Open for viewing except during wedding ceremonies)
• Open every day
• Free
• None (Please use the parking lots in the Karuizawa Hoshino Area)

7
Levant Museum of Art

An art museum where you can experience the liberal education and culture of the Taisho era.

This museum carries on the philosophy of Isaku Nishimura, a leading cultural figure of the Taisho Democracy era who loved Karuizawa. It almost perfectly replicates the school building of the Bunka Gakuin (now closed), which he founded and designed in 1921 to embody his ideal of education, drawing on his deep knowledge of Western art and culture, and continues to convey the spirit of the liberal education of that time. In addition to his own works, the museum displays pieces by people he associated with, such as the couple Tekkan and Akiko Yosano, and Hakutei Ishii. The meticulously maintained garden is also popular, attracting many repeat visitors every year.

Workshops for dyeing and woodworking that parents and children can participate in are also held.

The Le Vent Museum is open from early June to early November each year. Various events are held during this period. Among the most popular are workshops such as pottery classes, dyeing experiment classes, and woodworking classes. Some classes are open to elementary school students, and it is said that many parents and children take on the challenge of creating their summer vacation projects here (please check the official website for event details). Additionally, concerts, mainly featuring classical music, are held every week during August.
A cafe terrace overlooking the garden and a museum shop are also on-site. Pets are welcome in the garden and cafe.

Local
Supporter

The "Rose Festival," held annually from late June to early July, is particularly popular among the events. Many fans visit to admire the beautiful roses in the garden.

Levant Museum

• 957-10 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 15 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Approx. 30 minutes on the Karuizawa Town Circular Bus (East/South Route) inner loop from JR Karuizawa Station, then a 2-minute walk from the "Sugiuri Iriguchi" bus stop.
• Mid-June to early November, 10:00–17:00 (last admission 30 minutes before closing).
• Wednesdays (open on public holidays, closed the following day; open daily from August 1 to September 15), closed during the off-season from November to May.
• Adults 800 yen, high school/university students 600 yen, elementary/junior high school students 400 yen, free for children under elementary school age.
• 0267-46-1911
• Free

8
Karuizawa Ice Park

One of Japan's largest curling facilities, which also offers introductory classes for beginners.

Opened in 2013 within Karuizawa Kazakoshi Park, this is one of Japan's largest curling facilities. The year-round curling hall, equipped with six sheets, hosts major domestic and international tournaments. Introductory classes for beginners are available, and a full set of equipment, including cold-weather gear, can be rented (reservation required, fee applies). The classes are open to anyone aged 5 and up, and you can rest assured that you will be taught the basic movements and rules. The appeal of curling is that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and it seems that some families even participate in the introductory classes across three generations.

It also features an authentic "outdoor skating rink" where you can enjoy skating all year round.

Inside the facility, there is also a space displaying materials related to Olympic athletes who excelled in curling competitions.
In addition, there is an outdoor skating rink featuring a full-scale 400m oval course. During seasons other than winter, it is also used as a roller skating rink. Of course, rental skating shoes are available. You can enjoy skating with family and friends in both summer and winter. A portion of the skating rink is an outdoor futsal court with artificial turf, which can be rented for private use during the summer (reservation required, fee applies).

Local
Supporter

If you are going to participate in a curling trial class, we recommend a course of 90 minutes or longer. A 60-minute course might leave you feeling unsatisfied, as it will end just as you are getting the hang of it. You will be so absorbed that even 90 minutes will fly by!

Karuizawa Ice Park

• 1154-1 Hotchi, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 15 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Take the Karuizawa Town Loop Bus (East/South Route) outer loop from JR Karuizawa Station for about 25 minutes, and get off at "Kazakoshi Park" and walk for about 5 minutes.
• 9:00–22:00
• Year-end and New Year holidays *The outdoor skating rink is also open from 12/31 to 1/1
• Curling experience: 60-minute course 2,420 yen, 90-minute course 3,420 yen, 120-minute course 4,540 yen
  *Dates are set depending on the course. Please check the reservation site
  Age limit: 5 years and older
• 0267-48-5555
• Free
• https://coubic.com/karuizawaicepark(Curling experience reservation site)

9
Karuizawa Town Agricultural Products Direct Sales Facility: Karuizawa Hotchi Ichiba

A large-scale direct sales store where you can buy fresh local vegetables from Karuizawa, often with long lines.

A large-scale agricultural produce direct sales store that opened in Minami-Karuizawa in 2016. You can purchase agricultural products and processed goods produced in Karuizawa Town, centered on the local brand vegetables known as "Karuizawa Kirishita Yasai®." Its popularity is immense, with long lines forming even on weekdays before the 9:00 AM opening. It is said that even local restaurant chefs come to shop here, aiming for the vegetables brought in directly by the producers. Inside the facility, in addition to vegetables, processed goods such as jams and soba noodles, as well as prepared foods, are sold. There is also an attached restaurant where you can eat dishes made with local ingredients.

If you want to enjoy fresh local vegetables at home, a refrigerated delivery service is recommended.

The highlight is, without a doubt, the fresh vegetables such as cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. In the summer, Karuizawa-grown corn is particularly popular, and you can taste the difference the moment you eat it. Popular vegetables can sometimes sell out by noon, so it is recommended to visit in the morning. If you arrange for home delivery at the counter attached to the direct sales store, you can enjoy the taste of the production area at home.
Also, a soba-making workshop is held on the first and third Sunday of every month. Children from elementary school age and up can participate with their parents, experiencing everything from making the soba to tasting it (separate fee applies).

Local
Supporter

Among the processed products, the 100% buckwheat noodles made with Karuizawa-grown buckwheat flour are particularly popular. You can enjoy the flavor of rustic soba. The corn soup in the deli section is also exquisite. If it is during corn season, be sure to give it a try!

Karuizawa Town Agricultural Products Direct Sales Facility: Karuizawa Hōchi Ichiba

• 2564-1 Hotchi, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 20 minutes by car from JR Karuizawa Station
• Approx. 20 minutes on the Karuizawa Town Loop Bus (East/Southbound line) from JR Karuizawa Station, get off at "Karuizawa Hotchi Ichiba"
• 9:00–17:00 (9:00–16:00 from January to March)
• Every Wednesday from November to March, and year-end/New Year holidays *There are also two maintenance closures per year
• 0267-45-0037
• Free

10
Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa

Exhibiting representative works by Hiroshi Senju, a Japanese painter active on the world stage.

This museum allows visitors to enjoy the works of Hiroshi Senju, a Japanese painter active on the world stage, amidst the beautiful nature of Karuizawa. Over 50 pieces are on permanent display, centered on his signature "Waterfall" series. The building, characterized by its soft, glass-based forms, was designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa. The space created by Nishizawa, who is also globally acclaimed for his work with Kazuyo Sejima in the unit SANAA, is another highlight of the museum. You can enjoy a serene art experience where the ethereal collection, the courtyard planted with colorful trees and perennials, and the light streaming through the large glass windows all blend together.

The on-site shops and cafes are also stylish and comfortable spaces.

On the premises, there is also a cafe operated by the long-established Karuizawa bakery, Boulangerie Asanoya. After viewing the art, you can soak in the lingering impressions with their specialty bread and coffee. Next to it is a museum shop selling original goods and books related to Hiroshi Senju. Separate from the museum, there is also a gallery that holds various special exhibitions from time to time. If you have time, it is worth visiting in addition to the museum's collection.

Local
Supporter

Loud talking is prohibited inside the building, and a quiet atmosphere prevails. If you are tired of waiting in lines at tourist spots, we recommend relaxing here while viewing the fantastical works.

Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa

• 815 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 10-minute drive from JR Karuizawa Station
  Approx. 25-minute walk from Nakakaruizawa Station on the Shinano Railway
• 9:30–17:00 (Last admission at 16:30)
• Tuesdays (Open if it falls on a public holiday, during Golden Week, and from July to September)
  Closed for winter from December 26 to the end of February
• Adults 1,500 yen, University/High school students 1,000 yen, Junior high students and younger free
• 0267-46-6565
• Free