Less than two hours from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen, the picturesque town of Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture offers a blend of nature, history, and relaxation. Perched at 1,000 meters and overlooked by Mt. Asama, this luxurious mountain resort that features upscale villas with Western influences was once a rustic Edo-period (1603-1868) post station on the Nakasendo Route. Now, its cool climate and storied past make it a popular destination for those seeking serenity near the bustling capital.

 

 

But make no mistake, more dynamic activities like shopping, museum and shrine visits, and walking tours are part of what this town has to offer. If these experiences are right up your alley, check out this three-day Karuizawa itinerary to help you make the most of a stay in this scenic town during autumn.

 

Day 1: Exploring Kyu-Karuizawa

 

A good way to spend your first day in Karuizawa is to marvel at its autumn sceneries and architectural wonders. Then, before ending the day, visit its commercial center, the Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, where you can cap your day off with local specialties and some souvenir shopping. 

 

A. Stop by the Usui Pass Observation Platform for views of Gunma Prefecture on one side and Mount Asama on the other

 

The view from the Usui Pass Observation Platform.

 

The Usui Pass Observation Platform is found along Old Usui Pass, a mountain route part of the Nakasendo that served as a major thoroughfare in Japan for many centuries before a new road was established during the Meiji period (1868-1912). The mountain pass lies between Nagano Prefecture and Gunma Prefecture, and its location offers stunning views of the mountains of Gunma Prefecture on one side and of those of Nagano Prefecture on the other. 

 

The Kumano Kotai Shrine, which also straddles the two prefectures, is just a five-minute walk from the viewing deck. The shrine consists of three halls, with the main hall sitting on the border.
 

 

B. Marvel at the historical architecture of the Former Mikasa Hotel (reopening in 2025)

 

 

The Former Mikasa Hotel is a notable historical establishment in Karuizawa, having been built in the late Meiji period in a Western architectural style. It features the period’s most luxurious and advanced facilities and furnishings, including flush toilets with British tiles, chandelier lighting, and British carpets.

 

Notwithstanding its aesthetic, the Mikasa Hotel, which was inaugurated in May 1906, was envisioned and built completely by Japanese professionals. The establishment ceased operations as a hotel in 1970 and was eventually donated to the town of Karuizawa in March 1980. Then in May 1980, the national government designated it as an Important Cultural Property. In April 1983, it opened its interior to the public. 

 

※ The Mikasa Hotel is currently closed down for extensive preservation work, including earthquake reinforcement. It is scheduled to reopen in the summer of 2025.

 

 

C. Get in touch with nature by walking or cycling around the peaceful Kumobaike Pond

 

 

For those who love cycling, Karuizawa is the perfect place for the activity. The town is known to be conducive for cycling, with various routes that you can follow (Karuizawa Cycling Guide). One of the places where you can comfortably ride your bike is around Kumobaike Pond. Also known as “Swan Lake,” the pond is one of the most scenic spots in Karuizawa.

 

Just 1.5km away from JR Karuizawa Station, the small pond with peaceful surroundings has a 1-kilometer walking path, from which you can gaze at nature’s reflections on the water. The leaves of the trees are especially charming during autumn.

 

 

 

D. Shop for souvenirs along the Old Karuizawa Ginza Street

 

Karuizawa may be a resort town, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do any shopping there. The Old Karuizawa Ginza Street in Kyu-Karuizawa, is lined with established cafés, bakeries, and shops where you can buy souvenirs and local desserts. Many varieties of jam are also available, the preserves being a local specialty. 

 

At one end of the shopping street stands the Shaw Memorial Church, which was founded in 1895 by the Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw. Shaw, in fact, built the first villa in Karuizawa, behind the memorial chapel, and is credited for popularizing the town as a holiday destination. 

 

 

Day 2: Discovering Naka-Karuizawa

 

Exploring the secondary town center of Naka-Karuizawa is a nice way to spend your second day in Karuizawa if you want a more laid-back tour. About four kilometers west of Karuizawa, Naka-Karuizawa’s attractions are accessible from JR Naka-Karuizawa Station. 

 

The center has fewer shops and restaurants but still has exquisite sites and interesting activities to offer.

 

A. Experience "everyday life in Karuizawa" at Harunire Terrace

 

Photo Credit: Hoshino Resorts

 

Experience the Karuizawa lifestyle in Harunire Terrace which has come to be referred to as a “small town” within Naka-Karuizawa. Consisting of nine quaint buildings dotted along a clear stream in a forested area, the terrace is surrounded by hundreds of native elm trees and over a dozen attractive stores, cafes, and restaurants occupy these buildings, which are linked by wooden decks, hence the word “terrace” in this cozy attraction’s name. The unique boutiques and dining experiences in Harunire Terrace offer a glimpse into life in this resort town. 

 

 

B. Take a dip in the waters of Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu

 

Photo Credit: Hoshino Resorts

 

Enjoy the relaxing view of nature and immerse yourself in the warm comforting water. You can do that at Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu, which first opened in 1915, and can be found a few minutes away from Harunire Terrace. The rejuvenating waters of the onsen can be experienced at the Tombo-no-yu public bath house, which has indoor and outdoor pools segregated according to gender. After taking a dip in the onsen, take a break at the nearby Café Hungry Spot or bask in the warm sun and take in the refreshing breeze while relaxing under the trees in the area.

 

At night, the view of the changing times and seasons is reflected on the water's surface, making a picturesque scenery. You can also enjoy the breathtaking view from the window while taking a refreshing steam bath at one of their saunas to end your second day in town.

 

 

Day 3: Naka-Karuizawa to Kyu-Karuizawa

 

For your third day in Karuizawa, enjoy more of its nature, culture, and commerce. 

 

A. Explore Karuizawa Taliesin

 

Karuizawa Taliesin is a scenic leisure facility beside the tranquil Shiozawa Lake, around 3.5 kilometers south of JR Naka-Karuizawa Station. The name Taliesin is of Welsh origin and means “the shining forehead.” It’s also the name of a 19th century wandering minstrel from Wales who extolled the arts.

 

The expansive facility has three museums, namely the Literary Museum of Karuizawa, Musée Peynet, and the Kouko Fukazawa Nonohana Flower Museum. The other recreation areas that can be found on the landscaped property include the English Rose Garden, Amusement Square, and various cafés and restaurants. 

 

 

B. Shop at Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza with a view of Mt. Asama 

 

 

After you’ve had your fill of Karuizawa’s nature, it’s time to go shopping! Luckily, it’s possible to go on a full-on shopping spree in this town. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a shopping complex that has 240 shops, restaurants, and cafés across its eight shopping zones where you can buy name-brand products, souvenirs, and local specialties. 

 

But this being Karuizawa, you can still enjoy nature’s wonders while doing your shopping at Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. The mall is right smack in the middle of a verdant landscape and offers calming views of nature, including Mt. Asama.

 

 

With all these attractions, sites and experiences, time spent in Karuizawa is guaranteed to be at once calming, exhilarating and invigorating.

 

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