Top 50 things to do and attractions in Karuizawa-machi

Cute old street with a plethora of interesting stores selling craft made from the regional forest. There are some real gems if you're willing to explore the side streets/alleys.

Old Karuizawa Ginza Street is a charming stretch filled with quaint shops, cafés, and nostalgic charm — the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll. We were pleasantly surprised to catch a delightful street monkey performance while wandering through the area, adding to the fun and lively atmosphere. Our kids made a beeline for the Peter Rabbit Bakery & Café, and it turned out to be a lovely stop. The soft serve ice cream was creamy, smooth, and beautifully presented — a treat that perfectly matched the whimsical theme of the café. The whole place exudes a cosy, storybook vibe with plenty of photo-worthy corners and themed merchandise for fans of Peter Rabbit. It’s easy to see why Old Karuizawa Ginza remains one of the town’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re there for souvenirs, a snack, or just a stroll, it’s an experience that blends nature, nostalgia, and small-town warmth beautifully.

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street is one of Karuizawa’s most charming and lively destinations, blending history, culture, and modern style. This iconic stone-paved street is lined with a variety of unique shops, cozy cafés, and traditional craft stores, creating a perfect mix of old and new. You can find everything from local delicacies and handmade souvenirs to stylish boutiques and sweets shops. The wooden buildings and retro atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time, while still enjoying a modern shopping experience. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, trying famous Karuizawa treats like jam or bakery goods, or simply enjoying coffee on a terrace, the area offers something for everyone. The surrounding nature adds a refreshing touch, especially in autumn when the street is framed by stunning red and yellow leaves. Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza is not just a shopping street—it’s a must-visit destination that captures the heart and elegance of Karuizawa.

The most popular shipping street in Karuizawa. This is a must visit spot here. Tourists can buy souvenirs and foods here.

We spent a quite a few happy hours shopping here. There were plenty of souvenir shops and a variety of food stores, cafes and restaurants.

It's OK only. You can go to the outlet and the other street (at the northern area) too.

Lovely old street, a great place to do some mooching. Don’t miss the church area.

Gigantic open air outlet mall with a lot of foreign brands, from Armani to Speedo's. The large outlet malls in the US and the rest of the world could learn a thing or two about making a pleasant shopping environment that doesn't feel like a crush. It's also very accessible, a short stroll across a custom built bridge from the shinkansen station for Kamikura, and catering to foreign shoppers with tax free signs everywhere. We were there during a quiet weekday, but it's obviously geared up to have tens of thousands of visitors if the car parks are anything to go by. Sandwiched between the two big Prince hotels, the space seems to be owned by Prince and the Seibu group, so it's advantagous if you're a member of their programs. In fact, Prince seems to have a monopoly on the whole area from the micro-ski area, two hotels, kids playgrounds, and the outlet center. There are nice green areas and multiple food areas. It seems to partcularly cater to dog lovers since there are dog runs, pet stores, and pet corners with water everywhere. Parking is super cheap if you buy something and get a QR code voucher. It's a lot of walking to cover the whole area, but you can't drive from one area to another without paying for the parking, so beware of that. If this was the US they'd have mobility scooters to rent. Very popular with Chinese shopping tourists, perhaps on bus tours. Less so with western tourists. The deals were variable. We were there co-inciding with Black Friday and there seemed to be some good deals, while other stores were high street prices.

A massive semi outdoor outlet in terms of the number of shops and also floor space. You'd easily spend half a day here just walking around. It's so big they even have several food courts all over the place, with many unique and tasty food at reasonable prices. Have fun hunting for deals on your favorite brand here. Located within a walking distance of less than 5 minutes from JR Karuizawa Station, just take the south exit.

Lots of shopping opportunities. High end fashion and accessories shops available. Carpark was free for first 2h, thereafter ¥100 per hour except purchase over ¥30,000. Remember to ask for QR code to show proof of purchase. Complete payment via machine before picking up the car and exit.

This out was massively big… so far the best outlet I have been. Comparable to Gotemba outlet. Nice park and pet friendly.

I don't generally enjoy shopping, but this is maybe my favorite shopping center I've ever visited. Beautiful views, breezes, and shops offering great value for money, plus a calm atmosphere and dog park.

The outlet is located right next to the Shinkansen station, very accessible, and they have most of the brands that could definitely satisfy everyone! Some of the shops have really good deals and special editions. I realise one change is that some shops are offering bigger discounts instead of tax free.

A huge complex of shops carrying a dizzying and complex quantity of overseas goods. Some are on sales some are not. With multiple coffee shops and restaurants one can easily spend days walking around these shops looking for bargains or just window shopping. First things first! Get acquainted with the lay of the land and find a map of the complex. Know what you are looking for or you’ll waste your opportunity.

There aren't many activities for foreign tourists, and it may not be worth visiting if traveling by train or bus due to potential inconveniences. The terrace has a few shops and restaurants, but they are not particularly noteworthy. It serves as a relaxation spot for locals to sit and unwind.

Harunire Terrace is one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in Karuizawa. A gentle creek runs alongside a row of quaint cafés, boutique shops, and restaurants, creating the perfect backdrop for a slow, relaxing stroll. The sound of flowing water, crisp mountain air, and peaceful winter stillness made the entire experience feel almost meditative. The setting is beautifully designed — wooden walkways, natural surroundings, and well-curated stores that offer everything from artisanal pastries to handcrafted gifts. My daughter loved exploring the charming shops, and we could easily have spent half a day here enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and taking photos by the creek. It’s especially magical in winter, when the cool air and quiet ambience make it feel like a hidden gem tucked away from the world. Whether you’re visiting for coffee, brunch, or a little shopping, Harunire Terrace captures the essence of Karuizawa’s slow and scenic lifestyle. A must-visit for anyone who loves nature and good vibes.

There are nice shops and coffee shops here. Worth coming to walk around this area. Can grab a drink indoor when getting cold. Even at freezing temperature, still not feeling too bad to walk around. It’s a cozy area, feel very relax to spend time here.

Setting up a chill atmosphere in natural and river. Easily stay 2 hours for coffee and relaxing.

High end shopping with a very European black forest vibe. Nice spot to stop for a coffee. Cool lit up at night. Nice babbling brook running alongside. Free parking if you spend there, including cafes. Very popular on weekends. Short walks available around it.

An open air mall as part of the broader Hoshino resort. Anyone is welcome to the mall. Stores are pricier but the atmosphere is comfortable and not crowded. There are lots of benches to enjoy the scene, and free restroom. The mall integrates existing landscaping. Overall should visit at opening as it is not busy.

Love this stretch of space where you can enjoy nature, hear the river flows, have a coffee or nice meal. Grab some souvenirs and Japanese confectionery. Nice to chill and spend some slow hours.

Not a popular tourist attraction but known to many locals—the vibe feels so typically Japanese to me. We spent an hour strolling around the lake, feeding the carp and mandarin ducks—very relaxing and zen.

Firstly, I recommend walking around the lake before anything else. When you turn right immediately at the entrance, there's a bit of clearing overlooking the lake with a view of the building. It's a good spot to take pictures with your loved ones. Secondly, please explore the entirety of the Taliesin as there are things to do such as the paddle boat and souvenir shop. Enjoy!

Go kart is fast, but only 140cm or above can drive it. Mini golf is also fun. Swan boat is like riding a bike on water, and you can feed the ducks and fish.

This is a nice place to spend some time at if you are looking for something quieter. It is beautiful especially in autumn with the Color change of the leaves. I thought by paying the entry fee some of the attractions would be included but you have to pay for all of them. I think this place is great fun for little kids but less maybe for adults only. We still enjoyed our afternoon here!

Beautiful place located around Lake Shiozawa with plenty of things to do for both adults and children. If you are into art and literature, I highly recommend buying the entry ticket that includes all the three museums. It took us around three hours to explore the entire place, but you can easily spend the whole day here.

Setting up a peaceful atmosphere for visitor to relaxing themselves with natural, local people likes to come with pets or painting. Visit dated on halloween.🎃 entry fare is ¥900

Missed the autumn season, but it was still a pleasant spot to enjoy some quiet time away from Karuizawa’s main attractions. The entrance fee is 900 yen. I’d say it’s only worth a detour if you’re visiting in the right season or coming with kids.

Free entry. Very green during summertime, and basically the pond can reflect four seasons of the trees here. Tourists can spend like 30 mins and talk a walk here. There is a free public toilet and bike parking here.

A quiet walk in the morning at a cozy spot by Kumoba Pond in Karuizawa! Nothing beats relaxing with autumn leaves all around. Such a perfect little getaway day. Try to catch them wickedly as the leaves are falling and winter is approaching

Visited this place on 27 Oct and it is just on the right time to enjoy the autumn foliage. The weather is great and the scenery is stunning. There is car park available and also public washroom near the entrance of the park. Alternatively, you may park your car at the old ginza shopping district area and take 20 mins walk (~1.4km, mostly flat) on a nice weather day. This is a public park and no admission ticket is needed.

A beautiful walk around the Pond in the morning is very relaxing with stunning water views.

Small lake which you can walk around to admire the autumn scenery. Takes about 20 min, including time taken to admire the leaves

Stunning red leaves reflection on pond..

A stunning view of autumn leaves in Japan. Due to not far from Tokyo, this lake just like a hidden charm (not crowded with tourist). Highly recommend.

You’re not allowed to take photos, but you get tickets on the machine in the front. The architecture was gorgeous and we enjoyed the collection inside. They also had a cool showing at the time that we also liked. Make sure to keep quiet though! There’s another gallery and store in the same plaza so be sure to explore.

⚠️ BEFORE you go to the museum, go to the free gallery at the bottom of the car park. They run a video with the artist explaining about his art, inspiration and techniques (Japanese only) but it will give you a better understanding of the art in the gallery. The building is worth a visit, the artwork is a plus. Not allowing photography is annoying, I would have loved to share the place with friends and family who are unable to visit. The garden around the gallery is lovely too.

Celebrating just one local artist, this small museum is mostly interesting for the architecture. The art sits in it nicely. Other reviews talk about the gardens, but they are very minimal. Not worth ¥1500. No internal photos allowed. Big car park, cafe, small museum shop.

Rather than the artworks, which I honestly found quite repetitive, I personally took more pleasure in the architectural spaces. They sinuously and elegantly craft areas between the surrounding forest and circular inner garden islands of carefully chosen plants, all enclosed by large glass panes.

An incredible museum with a building (and architecture) to match. Worth a short detour. Easy parking and friendly staff. Tickets available at the door.

This art museum was incredible. You can see the skill of the artist improving over time and the mix between architecture and art is like something I've never seen before. Incredible!

Amazing artworks and architecture

We came to the ski resort in early January, the weather is cold with sun shine🌞, so the snow is not powdery, some skiing routes are too icy for the skiers.🧊 Moreover, the lift ticket and rental in the ski resort is relatively high compare to other ski resorts in japan.💸 Recommend to do rental nearby the North Exit of the train station🚄 which is half-price of that of in the ski resort. Overall, the experience is not bad, having fun in the all levels of ski routes, and here is the nearest place from Tokyo for skiing. Btw, this place has NO night-ski in this winter season.🏂

We’re only here for site seeing and glad that we can do that but riding the lift for just 2000+ yen and enjoy the beautiful mountain. This is our first snow experience as well so amazing. Hoping to be back next time to do skiii or snowboarding 😊 Feb, 22, 2025

We spent a winter day at the Karuizawa Snow Park (part of Prince Snow Resort), and it turned out to be a perfect fit for our toddlers and beginner-friendly for adults too. The Snow Park area is well-designed for families, with a fun sledding and tubing hill that our kids couldn’t get enough of, and a dedicated snow play zone filled with toys, soft mounds, and little tunnels to explore. We entered from the Ski Center, which is about a 10–12 minute walk from Karuizawa Station or the Prince Shopping Plaza. The location makes it really accessible, even if you're just coming for a day trip from Tokyo. There’s also a one-hour beginner ski trial available for those who want to try skiing for the first time, but we skipped that since our kids were still too young. Rental gear is available at the base — from boots and jackets to full ski/snowboard sets — but we only needed ski boots for the adults. Pricing was clear and fair: around ¥2,500 for 4 hours or ¥3,000 for a full-day ski/snowboard boot rental. We arrived around 11 AM on a weekday and the crowds were totally manageable, but it’s probably even better to come earlier (9–10 AM) if you want fewer people and fresh snow. Entry was ¥2,500 per adult; I’m not sure if our kids were free or discounted, but it was worth every yen for the fun they had. For families: this is a toddler-friendly snow park with a gentle layout and dedicated play zones. Our kids (ages 3 and 5) had a blast without needing skis. For accessibility: strollers aren’t really usable once you’re in the snow zone, but the Ski Center and walkways are manageable if you plan ahead. Non-slip boots are essential — it gets slippery in places. For rentals: snow gear for all ages is available on-site, or you can wear your own winter clothing and just rent specific items. It’s a fantastic winter activity spot for first-timers or those traveling with young kids, whether you stay overnight in Karuizawa or visit as a day trip.

How could we say it's not a great skiing place. Great facilities and friendly staffs. We had a coach and she's multilingual. A really fun place for people who are new to the ski or a veteran. Most of all, outlet is just nearby, so handy to prepare the gears. Big thumb up

One of the most conveniently located ski resorts (from the POV of someone living in Tokyo, that is). You leave in the morning, get a good 7 hours of skiing (incl lunch break) and then be back at home in the early evening. Very hard to beat! And very reasonable price. If you stay over night, the choices are quite wide, but prices are quite steep, especially if you want to stay close to the slopes. Skiing wise, the no. if slopes are not that many, and if you’re an above average skier, you’ll probably get bored after a few days, but the all the other pros might outweigh that, especially if you’re here with kids. The proximity to the big shopping center is also very nice!

This ski slope is another convenient location , 10 min walk from the Shinkansen station. The slopes are short and mainly for beginners though. It’s not as well organized as Gala Yuzawa. Definitely book your ticket and rentals online in advance because the lines are really long. Also, what I didn’t know is you get both your rental and lift tickets by scanning a QR code. Then you take your printed receipt to the rental shop. Be warned there are very few lockers and otherwise there is a luggage check where you can store your bags while you ski for 1000 yen. This is in the Snow House. Also there are many ski schools here so expect tons of tiny kids and instructors. Lift lines will be long, no getting around that. All in all it’s fine for a light half day of skiing. Nothing special but still convenient.

Fund place to be for snowboarding and skiing. This place can be quite pack. A note for those wanting to rent the gears for more than 1 day has to take back all the gears and only return them on the last day of the rental. Can be a hassle for those staying far carrying the snowboard, shoes, hammet, etc.

It was ok. Probably better during Autumn season. Was not able to roam around too much because there is a wedding pictorial. The fence is close, you cant take your picture unless you're within the perimeter of the fence. I can't get a good picture of the Kogen Church outside of the fence since the tree trunks blocks the view. I prefer the stone church near the Kogen Church. The inside is beautiful. And the story of the shape of the church is meaningful.

I attended the Summer Candle Night Festival, which I applied for through an online ballot system about a month ago. Although the application process was a bit challenging, it was well worth the effort! The night was truly enjoyable, with free entry. The candlelight created a romantic atmosphere, making it perfect for couples looking to capture sweet moments. I visited during the summer, and while it was cozy and pleasant, I imagine it will be even more festive during Christmas! I definitely plan to revisit soon!

We visited Karuizawa Kogen Church during the Christmas season, and it was absolutely magical. The softly lit chapel, glowing pathways, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees made it feel like stepping into a winter fairytale. The entire atmosphere was calm, reverent, and filled with festive warmth — truly one of the most memorable stops on our Karuizawa trip. Even though the chapel itself is modest in size, the sense of peace and beauty is remarkable. The surrounding grounds are open to the public, allowing visitors to take a quiet evening stroll while admiring the twinkling lights and serene ambience. Everything was tastefully done, with gentle music and a tranquil setting that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas in Japan. It’s easy to see why Karuizawa Kogen Church is one of the most photographed and beloved landmarks in the area. Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or simply want a moment of quiet reflection, this place is a must-visit. A truly heartwarming and unforgettable experience.

Beautiful church especially at night when the lights up. Tourists should avoid going on weekends because of normally religious services within.

If you’re nearby worth checking out for autumn leaves but church itself is not very impressive

The church itself is fine — it’s well structured and has a solemn atmosphere suitable for wedding ceremonies. However, it’s NOT recommended as a tourist attraction!!! access to the church grounds is often restricted, and many mainland Chinese visitors use the area for photo shoots. It’s also hard to reach — there’s no nearby bus stop or metro, so you’ll need to walk at least 20 minutes from central Karuizawa.

The peaceful stillness of Karuizawa Kogen Church gently cradles the fading moments of autumn, as the soft breath of winter quietly approaches—hurry and go quickly to capture the fleeting beauty of the autumn leaves in photographs.

Well restored building and good illustration of the history of the hotel in different ages. You can also enjoy a fine afternoon tea after your visit on 2/F too!

Ignore my rating. The place is closed and under renovation. Went all the way to the end of Mikasa-Dori just to find this out. It didn’t seem like there was much construction going on either, so it seems like it will be a while before it reopens to tourists.

Nice place to visit. Personally prefer more physical activities but the hotel looks really good and there is a cafe inside where u can have tea with applepie.

As per the information, expectedly they will be under renovation for the next 4,5 years. Please take note before visiting and do not let it affect your reviewing. Thank you!

Each of the rooms inside this 100-year-old building offered a snapshot of the past and it was interesting to feel the retro atmosphere.

Interesting to see the old western architecture, but not many of the furnishings are left inside making it feel a little hollow.

Great place to visit!

This is a beautiful old church that is worth the visit. As the name implies, an architecture made from stones and no photography is allowed inside the church.

Stone and light, silence and soul — the Stone Church in Karuizawa feels alive. 🌿 Where sunlight dances through arches, and peace whispers between every wall. A place that reminds you — beauty doesn’t shout, it breathes. ✨🇯🇵 1️⃣ Hidden in the forest, built from earth and light. 🌲 2️⃣ Each stone stacked with purpose, each curve in harmony. ⛪ 3️⃣ Sunlight spilled like poetry through glass. ☀️ 4️⃣ No words, no noise — just calm within. 🌿 5️⃣ The air felt sacred, the silence loud. 🍃 6️⃣ Art, faith, and nature in one breath. ✨ 7️⃣ A moment of stillness I’ll never forget. 💫 8️⃣ Karuizawa — where peace finds its home. 🇯🇵

This is my first time to give one star. We could not enter the church due to the staff told us that there is a wedding ceremony inside. The old female staff told us in Japanese that we only can enter the church at the period of 3pm to 3:45pm, but it was 14pm meaning we should wait for one hour. However, next Japanese old couple just came at the entrance, and I heard that she said if you want to enter and see the church, please wait here at the entrance for 10-15 mins. Why different?! I can understand Japanese language, okay!? It is totally unfair to foreigners! I don’t want to argue and ruin my mood in front of church. God will know it. Personal recommend: ★ Family-friendly: ★ Date for couples: ★ Parking lot: ◯ there is a temporary parking lot Services/meals/products/design: ★ Period for stay: 30 mins Charge: free Baby room/accessible toilet: ✕ Cleanness: ★

The architecture is fairly unique, but that's about it, and unique isn't always the same as remarkable. It's smaller than expected and as far as "organic architecture" goes it's a bit of an outdated piece in that it lacks any forward thinking adaptations for actual enviromentalism or sustainability, it simply tries to mimic what a designer feels would be a "natural" built addition to the location. What results is something that doesn't stand out apart from its awkward location. It's small too; not really worth a specific trip to visit unless you love the architect, I guess. There is a good usage of natural light, but nothing groundbreaking. Materials are mainly stone, kind of awkwardly planted into the ground in a way that feels exactly like a forced human imitation of nature.

Cool to see if nearby but coming all the way is not very worth it. It’s very small - only really nice in a couple of frames

Not a big area, but if have travelled to Harunire Terrace, it’s good to walk here also. The nearby area is very quiet, but supported by easily accessible public transport. Can have some peaceful times here, and take some nice pictures.

This church is located in the vicinity of the Hoshino resort. It boasts a distinctive architectural design. Regrettably, I was unable to enter the church at that time due to an ongoing wedding photoshoot. It appears to be a popular venue for wedding ceremonies.

Very nice looking shrine in autumn colours, going up the shrine requires heading up some pretty steep steps but overall fine, on top there’s the shrine where you can worship and also write down some wishes Overall I came to see the view mainly On this day the weather was great and cool weather so I really enjoyed it

Visited in oct 2018 and it was a quaint little shrine with a cool fact about it being in between two prefectures. Took the red tourist bus up the mountain. was planning to visit again in dec 2022 but sadly it turns out the red tourist bus that usually shuttles between karuizawa and the shrine is not in service during the winter season so please do take note when planning to travel to there in winter!

The staff here are really pet friendly and the paper charm they give with the paw print was really cute. 12/10 would recommend visiting with your pet!

Beautiful place to go visit. It is the starting point of a hiking trail. There are a lot of stuff for pets. They also have a lot of things related to crows, even official soccer talisman.

Traditional Japanese shrine on top of the hill above of Karuizawa. Apart from the shrine itself, there is a viewing spot and restaurants nearby. It is only a few minutes drive from the Karuizawa Union Church, so definitely worth a visit.

Quite an interesting shrine with lots of animal statue and including Crow as a carrier god. This shrine is half in Nagano and half in Gunma ken and there is a line of demarcation.

Beautiful location shrine. It’s low key and a bit isolated and not overrun by tourists. Walking up from Karuizawa is a pleasant walk.

Highlight [1] Garden grass and moss garden and statuesin the forest [2] Cafe open terrace with garden view [3] Art Kandinsky, Klee, Miro, Mark Rothco [4] Architecture by Kiyonori Kikutake

Lovely museum with beautiful garden. Their contemporary art collection is quite remarkable, and their seasonal exhibition is quite uniquely curated, you wouldn't be disappointed. (If you like contemporary - modern art).

Haven't been inside the museum but love the nature nearby. Beautiful place.

(Translated by Google) It was a wonderful garden with a flowing river, grass, moss, colorful trees, and works of art. There is a river flowing inside, so on 11/14, I feel like I need a coat on top even during the day. The trees with their autumn leaves were also beautiful. I think it's cool and pleasant in the summer, so I'd like to come again to see the integration of the artwork and greenery. The second time I went was on a rainy evening during a long weekend in September. The trees and moss were still very green. It's almost like autumn... The parking lot was free in front of the duck pond across the street, so I thought I'd be able to see it for free since there was no reception if I was just looking at the garden. I came to the museum thinking I could get a cheaper price with the Saison Card, but I was told that the campaign had ended. It seems to be cheaper at JAF. The inside of the museum was clean and it was a pleasant museum. (Original) 川が流れ、芝生、苔、色づいた木々の中に、芸術作品が一体となり、素晴らしい庭でした。 中に、川が流れているので11／14では、 お昼でも一枚上にコートが必要な感じ。 紅葉した木々も、また美しいかったです。 夏は涼しくて気持ちいいと思うので、また、作品と緑の一体化を見に来たいと思います。 2度目は　9月の連休の雨の夕方行きました。 まだ、木々の緑と、苔の緑が強かったですが そろそろ秋の気配が...。 駐車場は、向かいの鴨いる池の前で無料だったので、庭を見るだけだと受付もないので、無料で見れそうな？ 美術館は、セゾンカードで安くなると思って来たんですが、そのキャンペーンは終わっているとのことでした。JAFでは安くなるようです。 美術館の中もきれいで、気持ちいい美術館でした。

Beautiful

(Translated by Google) This is a contemporary art museum located in Karuizawa. I went to see the exhibition of Shusaku Arakawa + Madeline Gins. It was a style that is not usually seen even in contemporary works. Your tastes may differ. There aren't that many works, so you can browse through them in about an hour. It was interesting to see some of the works on display that used scrap tires, pots, and other hardware. I was able to watch it just in time because I was told that the sound would go off once every hour, so it was great! There are lockers, a cafe, and a museum shop inside the museum. I think the best part of this museum is the garden! The museum is located in the forest, so nature is abundant, and the greenery in the garden is well-maintained. I personally liked the art in the garden better. It was also nice to be able to see Mt. Asama on the way to the museum. (Original) 軽井沢にある現代美術館です。荒川修作＋マドリン・ギンズの企画展を見てきました。現代の作品でも普段見られない作風でした。好みは別れるかもしれません。作品点数もさほどないので、1時間ほどでゆっくり見られます。展示作品で廃材のタイヤやなべなど金物などを使ったアートが面白かったです。1時間に一回音が鳴るとのことでちょうど見られたので、良かったです！館内はロッカー、カフェ、ミュージアムショップがあります。 この美術館のおすすめはお庭かなと思います！ 森の中にある美術館、とにかく自然が豊かでお庭の緑がきれいに手入れされています。庭にあるアートの方が個人的には気に入りました。 美術館に向かう途中浅間山も見られたのも良かったです。

(Translated by Google) 🏣2140 Nagakura Serigasawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture 🚃...by car from Usui Karuizawa IC. Taxi from Shinano Railway Nakakaruizawa Station💴🚕 I didn't understand 🚏🚌m(_ _)m * Opening hours…10:00 to 18:00 (until 17:00 in November) Closed: Thursday Admission fee…1500 yen to 500 yen (JAF discount available) * Opened in August 1981 It seems that it has celebrated its 40th anniversary. The museum was designed by architect Kiyonori Kikutake (1928-2011) and was built in a quiet environment with Mt. Asama in the background. * The vast garden is said to have been created by sculptor Isamu Wakabayashi (1936-2003). The entrance gate made of rusty iron, the two bridges over the stream, the promenade, the plants, etc. were built with great attention to detail... You can also see many sculptures dotted around the garden. * The Sezon Museum of Contemporary Art opened in Takanawa, Tokyo in 1962, and is said to have introduced traditional Japanese art. In 1981, the museum moved to Karuizawa, where it has continued to operate in a flexible and diverse manner, as a place for contemporary art experiments and imagination. The collection is said to be based on a systematic collection of contemporary artists from Japan and abroad. Postwar contemporary art pieces were on display inside the museum. I was able to experience contemporary art and walk around and see sculptures in the garden. * The admission fee includes the inside of the building and the garden. When you go to Karuizawa, you can stretch your legs a little and go to an art museum...you can see a different face. (Original) 🏣長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町長倉芹ヶ沢2140 🚃…碓氷軽井沢ICより車で。しなの鉄道中軽井沢駅からタクシー💴🚕 🚏🚌は分かりませんでしたm(_ _)m ※ 開館時間…10時～18時(11月は17時まで) 休館日…木曜日 入館料…1500円～500円(JAF割引あり) ※ 1981年8月開館 40周年を迎えたそうです。 浅間山を背に静かな環境の中に、美術館は建築家の菊竹清訓氏(1928年～2011)による設計で建築された。 ※ 広大な庭園は彫刻家の若林奮氏(1936年～2003年)による制作だそうです。 赤錆た鉄の入口の門や小川に掛かる二つの橋や遊歩道、植物等々細部に気を配り造られて居るそうです…… 又庭園には数々の彫刻作品が点在しているのが見られます。 ※ セゾン現代美術館は1962年に東京高輪に開館し、日本の伝統美術の紹介をしていたそうです。 1981年に現代美術を対象に、同時代の様々な実験的想像の場として、柔軟で多様な活動行う為に「軽井沢」に移転し現在に至るそうです。 コレクションは国内外の現代美術作家を系統的に収集することを基本としているそうです。 館内には戦後の現代美術作品が展示されていました。 現代美術を体験させていただき、庭園で彫刻を拝見散策出来ました。 ※ 入館は館内、庭園が含まれた料金だそうです。 軽井沢に行かれた時には少し足を伸ばして美術館に行かれるのも…別の顔をが覗けます。

Amazing place to visit , it would be even more beautiful if the roses were in bloom . A quiet place and very relaxing

Escape to a British scenery ! A beautiful setting of flowers, trees and a lake refined with some hidden nearby restaurants that allow to enjoy the view at the same time. I highly recommend coming to the garden at off-peak times or early morning for a rewarding tranquil experience. For a truly unique experience visit or stay at nearby Villa Ruze.

Peaceful and tranquil. A pity in early June the roses are not yet in full bloom. Came here a week to two early. And the shop/cafe was closed too.

Beautiful lake especially towards late morning and sun is up yet about to descend. Lots of spots to snap shots. Many people too.

Must pay a visit there. However one must drive to get there. The flowers are just beautiful

A very beautiful park. Lots to see. Also very educational if you want to learn about different varieties of roses. Other flora also abound. Very good place for flower and landscape photography as well as venue for pre-nup photos and the like. Highly recommended.

IT IS CLOSED NOW FROM EARLY NOVEMBER TO APRIL 2026!!! There is still some area to walk around and shops and cafe. It was still fun

Visited the Shaw Memorial Church, a lovely and quiet place with a lot of history. The wooden chapel blends beautifully with the surrounding forest

Peaceful place! I didn’t go inside but you’re allowed to.

One more great wooden church around Karuizawa old town. Take a walk and some pix with this very nice church.

It was very peaceful and full if greenery. The smell of different plants, herbs and greenery was so healing…it was pleasant…

This wooden chapel surrounded by trees was built in the 1800s by A.C. Shaw, a Canadian missionary known as the “father of Karuizawa.” Despite its simple exterior, it’s warm and cozy inside. Don’t miss the replica of Shaw’s summer home nearby—it’s free!

It is a small church, but once inside, you can feel the quietness and the smell of wood, which makes you feel very calm. If you want to feel the quietness of the church and the air of the forest, this is a good place to visit.

Come to the church, see the old architecture. Very peaceful for prayer.

Nice museum of toys and some old story books. If you have time, and then you can take it a look. Personal recommend: ★ ★ ★ Family-friendly: ★ ★ ★ Date for couples: ★ ★ Parking lot: ◯ Services/meals/products/design: ★ ★ ★ Period for stay: 1 hour Charge: there is a set with toy museum and story books museum. Baby room/accessible toilet: ◯ Cleanness: ★ ★ ★ ★

It's a cute little place...but unless you really like picture books or something, I would recommend taking the time to come here.

A great place for a quiet day trip. There's a place for reading thousands of picture books in multiple languages, which is where families with young children (and solo adults) could spend hours reading. There was an exhibit on the history of picture books. All the explanations were in Japanese, but many of the texts themselves were in English. In addition, exhibits on Beatrix Potter and a special exhibit on American picture books meant that we spent a fair amount of time wandering around. Finally, the picture book shop was very fun. The books were from all around the world, and in both English and Japanese.

Nice little museum with pair ticket for toy museum across the street

Great to hang out with small children. Many books, also in English, great park to run around.

(Translated by Google) It takes a while to get here by bicycle from Karuizawa Station, but The scenery along the way is beautiful, but once you get there, I don't think the extra time was necessary. 😆 The space isn't very large, so if you're not looking at picture books or storybooks, it's about 20 minutes. The grounds are well-maintained. Since I was already there, I also bought tickets for the museum across the street. The museum building across the street is even more unique. (Original) 從輕井澤站腳踏車騎過來花一點時間，但 中途的景色非常美好，但到達該處後覺得不用特別花時間騎過來😆 ，主要空間不大，如果不是來看繪本故事書的話，大概20分鐘結束，但場地維護的蠻好 來都來了，連對面博物館門票一起購買，對面的博物館建築更加特別。

(Translated by Google) The garden is lovely and the picture book exhibit is fascinating! The illustrations had explanations of the contents of the books, which were interesting and easy to understand. Imai Ayano's illustrations were adorable. 😊 (Original) お庭が素敵で、絵本の展示が面白い！ 絵にどんな絵本の内容か説明があって、それが面白くて分かりやすくてよかった。いまいあやのさんの絵が可愛かった😊

Bus stop going back to Karuizawa Station.

Today I have put 4 stars, because so far, in my time in Japan, this hot spring may have been one of my favorites. The experience was so refreshing, peaceful, and architecturally satisfying, you come in fresh, and come out fresher. Already, the shoe locker smells like fresh peppermint, and it just gets better. You enter the changing rooms and the A-frame roof above you sets a serene mood as you put your things in a wood locker. When you are getting washed, everything around you is either made of stone or wood, and the body soap, shampoo and conditioner all smell amazing. It's a little busy, but everyone is quiet, respectful, and mostly local so I would not call it a tourist attraction. The hot baths indoors and outdoors, the cold bath, and the sauna all make you feel clean and the hygiene is impressive. Every minute you are there, you are bathing deeply in Japanese culture in every way possible. Every thing is the perfect temperature, and the nature is rich all around, because there are windows indoors. You only pay about 1,300 yen per person, which is not that more expensive than inferior hot springs. Lastly, you come out with a replenishing shower, and come out feeling crisp and natural. I love these hot springs and I had a great experience.

(Translated by Google) It's a beautiful bath. indoor bath and There is a large open-air bath. You can also take a bed bath♨️. A sauna is also available. Tell the receptionist that you will use the sauna. You can rent sauna seat towels 😃 Personally, at night The stars in the open-air bath are beautiful. Recommended. For guests staying at HOSHINOYA It is available for free. You can re-enter with your receipt. take a bath Eating and drinking at the villager's restaurant Re-entry is also possible😃😃😃 It's a beautiful bath. There is an indoor bath and a large open-air bath. You can also lie down in the bath♨️. There is also a sauna. If you tell the reception that you want to use the sauna, they will lend you a sauna sheet towel😃 Personally, I recommend the open-air bath at night because the stars are beautiful. Guests staying at Hoshinoya can use it for free. You can re-enter with your receipt, so you can take a bath, eat and drink at the Village Dining Hall, and then re-enter😃😃😃 This is a beautiful bathtub. Indoor bathroom Japanese style Large open-air bath. I can sleep in the bed ♨️. Liquor store has a bathroom. The reception staff used the bathing room. Allowable mulberry seat width😃 Personal words, night The stars of the open-air bath pond village. Reaching and admiring. Guests at the Hongyu Yuya Hotel It is a free offer. Added new imports to the store. Washing school Drinking at a restaurant for residents of the village It is possible to enter the country again😃😃😃 (Original) 綺麗なお風呂です。 室内風呂と 大きめの露天風呂があります。 寝湯♨️もできます。 サウナも完備です。 受付でサウナ利用伝えると サウナシートタオル貸して頂けます😃 個人的には、夜の 露天風呂が星が綺麗で おススメです。 星のや宿泊のお客様は 無料で利用できます。 レシートで再入場できますので お風呂入って 村民食堂で食事・酒飲んで 再入場も可能です😃😃😃 It's a beautiful bath. There is an indoor bath and a large open-air bath. You can also lie down in the bath♨️. There is also a sauna. If you tell the reception that you want to use the sauna, they will lend you a sauna sheet towel😃 Personally, I recommend the open-air bath at night because the stars are beautiful. Guests staying at Hoshinoya can use it for free. You can re-enter with your receipt, so you can take a bath, eat and drink at the Village Dining Hall, and then re-enter😃😃😃 这是一个美丽的浴缸。 室内浴室和 有露天大浴场。 还可以睡床浴♨️。 酒店还设有桑拿浴室。 告诉接待员您将使用桑拿浴室。 可以租桑拿座巾😃 就个人而言，晚上 露天浴池里的星星很漂亮。 受到推崇的。 致入住虹夕诺雅酒店的客人 它是免费提供的。 您可以凭收据重新输入。 洗澡 在村民的餐馆吃吃喝喝 再次入境也是可以的😃😃😃

(Translated by Google) Fortunately, there is a bus that can go to the station There are also places to visit near the old Karuizawa shopping street and Kumoba Pond. You can see all the sights of Karuizawa by bus (Original) 還好有公車可以去車站 也有到舊輕井澤商店街及雲場池附近 搭公車就可以一覽輕井澤的景點了

(Translated by Google) Admission fee is 1,550 yen per adult. The facility is very well maintained and I think the staff's calm customer service was good 😁 The men's and women's baths are completely separate buildings. I think it would be better to decide on a meeting time before taking a bath😄Perhaps it was due to the effectiveness of the hot springs, but my body felt warm for a while after I got out of the bath and it felt good😊 (Original) 入館料は大人1人あたり1550円。施設はとても綺麗に管理されており、店員さんの落ち着いた接客も良かったと思います😁男湯女湯は完全別館です。待ち合わせの時間を決めてから入浴した方が良いと思います😄温泉の効能によるものでしょうか、お風呂を出てからはしばらく身体がポカポカして気持ちよかったです😊

(Translated by Google) There are indoor and outdoor soups. (Original) 有分室內湯跟室外湯

(Translated by Google) A great hot spring house. After soaking in the hot water, you can visit Yushu Town. (Original) 非常棒的湯屋，泡完湯可順便再逛逛榆樹小鎮

Shiraito Waterfall is absolutely stunning — a true hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. The curtain-like streams of water cascading gently down the mossy rock wall create a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. The walk from the various parking area is short and scenic, with a few small shops selling local snacks such as croquettes and grilled ayu fish, and souvenirs along the way. The air feels fresh and cool. A perfect spot to pause, take photos, and simply enjoy nature’s beauty. Highly recommend visiting, especially in the morning when it’s quiet and avoid the crowds. Do take note that you will have to pay a fee of ¥500 when your car passes through to the parking lot. Avoid temptation to park immediately when you see a lot, try parking closer to the shops and the waterfall.

There was not much water at the Shiraito Waterfall when we visited on 25 October 2025 but it was still beautiful, leaves were starting to change colour. There was a 500 yen fee for entering the waterfall area by car. The drive to the waterfall is pleasurable with red leaves along the way. Parking and toilets were available. The waterfall is just a short easy walk from the parking area. There were food stalls near the waterfall. We tried the venison bun (500 yen) which was ok and the roasted fish (800 yen) was delicious.

11/2/2025 - Amazing please. Recommend to come early to avoid the crowd. It's only 5mins walk from the parking lot. Later we walk all the way back to the station, it's about 10 miles, but the trails are amazingly beautiful and quiet.

Leisure drive up the mountains for only 500 yen and found convenient parking at car park 1. It was really close to the waterfall and a great break from all the noise in major cities, with plenty of fresh air and beautiful autumn foliage to reset yourself.

It was alright, not much to see unless you want to hike around the national park. Not entirely worth the detour out of town. Unless you have lots of time. You can go by your own car or by public bus (cost 720 Yen one-way).

I took the bus at the Karuizawa Station bus stop #2, it is labeled so you can see it clearly. Look out for the information board near it also, I bought the 1-day bus ride pass for only ¥1400. Basically I took this bus to and from Shiraito Waterfall, and just show the pass on your phone to the bus driver. The Shiraito Waterfall is a great place for you to relax and enjoy nature especially if you love Autumn season, waterfalls, and grilled fish. They provide free WiFi for everyone and apparently they encourage people to share your feelings on social media about this place. Please just slow down and enjoy the relaxing environment.

Nice stop on our Karuizawa road trip. A small pathway leading from carpark to row of shops then to the waterfall. Serene and tranquil waterfall but nothing majestic. Nice quick photo spot that’s all.

It was a nice visit to Mt. Asama. But there are a few precautions to keep in mind before visiting. The hike to the summit is not 2 hours. It's more like 2.5 to 3.5 hours ranging in speed. You should come prepared for weather and consumptionary requirements. If you have vertigo, this is not for you, as there are quite a few tight shaves with sheer cliff edges. The walk is going up one mountain, climbing across a long ridge, and then going straight up to the top of Mt. Asama, so it isn't a direct hike. The mountain is closed right now as of late October, and it is very cloudy (sometimes) at the top, and it gets cold easily. It was wonderful.

Very quiet yet beautiful place to hike

Passed by this lovely active volcano in January on the way to the snow monkey hot springs. Steam or smoke was coming out of it while it was snow topped. Would love to see it more closely one day.

Nothing much to see. If you climb to the top, there's a temple. Good place to go if you like to take pictures with the mountain in the background. Almost all the shops were close when we went there last month.

Mount AsamaMountain (climbing) weather forecasts for 3 elevations of Asama Yama, Honshu, Japanese Archipelago, Japan. Detailed 6 day  ...

We were doing a self-drive and saw this majestic mountain in front of us. I couldn't resist and stopped the car and to do many more shots before heading to Karuizawa snow resort.

On a sunny winter day, you can see the gorgeous views of snowy Asama from the ridge walk of the surrounding mountains. Definitely worth a hike!

Great modern art collections like yayoi kusama, yoshitomo Nara, takashi murakami in good atmosphere.

Closed in winter!

(Translated by Google) I went because it was closing this year. It was small but the exhibits were dense, and it was wonderful to see the continuity of the artists' activities. Each visitor was given an original pictogram doll for taking photos of the works, and they were able to take photos of the works in the museum. It was a wonderful museum where you could experience contemporary art in a relaxed and heartfelt space. Please be sure to visit before it closes. (Original) 今年で閉館とのことで行ってきました こじんまりとしながらも展示の密度が濃く、作家さんの活動の連なりを実感できる展示が素晴らしかったです おひとり様には作品撮影用のオリジナルピクトグラム人形？をお渡しいただき、館内の作品を撮影できます ゆったりと心のこもった空間で肩肘張らず現代アートに触れることができる素晴らしい美術館でした 閉館までにぜひ足を運んでみてくださいね

(Translated by Google) It has been decided that the museum will close in 2025. I stopped by I was worried because there was no mention of parking on the website. There is a parking lot in front of the museum that can accommodate about 6 cars. there was The inside of the building is quite compact. Although it is a little unsatisfactory, You can see works by Kusama-san and Nara-san. I think this is a good place for those who like it. Photographs other than individual works are not permitted inside the museum. is allowed You can take a commemorative photo as a keepsake. There is a doodle book in the museum shop, and there are quite a lot of fun pictures and comments. I felt relieved The difficulty is The road in front is chronically congested on Saturdays and Sundays. Therefore, it is recommended to go to Karuizawa on weekdays. (Original) 2025年に閉館が決定したという事で 立ち寄りました 駐車場に関する記述がホームページにも無いので心配でしたが 美術館の前に6台程度が停められる駐車場が ありました 館内はかなりこじんまりした作りになって おり、少し物足りなさはありますが 草間さんや、奈良さんの作品が見られるので お好きな方には充分な場所だと思います 館内は作品単体以外での写真撮影 が許されており 思い出に記念写真を撮れます。 ミュージアムショップには落書き帳が置いてあり、なかなか楽しい絵やコメントがあり ほっこりしました 難点は 前の道が土日は慢性的に渋滞する ので、軽井沢は平日行くのがおすすめです

(Translated by Google) Visited on 7/4/2025 The road to the museum suddenly got dark, and for a moment I didn't know if it was even there. It seems that the museum itself will close on September 23, 2025. It is also a contemporary art museum, and there are many works by Takashi Murakami and Yayoi Kusama. The museum itself is small enough that you can go around in an hour. Rules ◦ No flash photography ◦ Due to copyright protection, you cannot take pictures of the artworks alone ◦ It's okay if people are in the picture ◦ No eating or drinking in the exhibition room Unfortunately, it was close to closing time, so I wondered if it was okay to clean the toilets and mop the floors next to the visitors. It was a heavy rain and a weekday, so there weren't many people, so I understand the desire to clean up quickly, but if someone is cleaning next to me when I use the toilet, I wondered if I shouldn't use it. Speaking only of the men's toilet, the door with the cleaning tools was left open, and cleaning tools were placed around, so I gave up on using the toilet. I wish they'd been a little more considerate... (Original) 2025/7/4来訪 美術館に向かう道は急に暗くなり、一瞬ここにあるのかわからない感じでした。 美術館自体は2025年9月23日に閉鎖するようです。 現代美術館ともあり、村上隆さんや草間彌生さんの作品など数多くありました。 美術館自体は1時間あれば回れる規模です。 ルールとして ◦フラッシュ撮影は禁止 ◦著作権保護のため、作品単独での撮影は不可 ◦人物が一緒に映ればオッケー ◦展示室内での飲食は不可 残念だったのが、閉店に近い時間だったこともあり、 観覧者がいるそばでトイレ掃除や床のモップ掛けをかけるのはどうかとは思いました。 大雨且つ平日だからそれほど人がいないからさっさと片付けしたい気持ちはわかりますが、トイレ利用時も横で掃除されると使ってはいけないのか？と思ってしまいました。 男性トイレに限っていうならば、清掃道具がある扉は開けっぱなし、清掃するための用具を周辺に配置され、トイレをするの諦めました。もう少し配慮あるとよかったかと思います...

(Translated by Google) I went there on a weekday. The road to the museum was very narrow in some parts, which was confusing, but the distance was short so it wasn't a big problem. The museum is scheduled to close on September 23, 2025, so if you are interested in contemporary art such as Yayoi Kusama, I recommend you visit early. (Original) 平日に利用しました。 美術館へ行くまでの道が一部非常に狭く戸惑いましたが距離は短いのでさほど問題ではありませんでした。2025年9月23日で閉館とのことなので、草間彌生などの現代美術に興味のある方は早めに訪れた方が良いと思います。

(Translated by Google) Drink service was included in the admission fee, so I received a cold apple juice. You can enjoy a quiet and calm art space. It's a shame that another of my favorite places will disappear as it is scheduled to close in the fall of 2025. (Original) 入場料にドリンクサービスが含まれていたので冷たいリンゴジュースを頂きました。 静かで落ち着いたアート空間を楽しめます。 2025年の秋で閉館予定との事でお気に入りの場所がまた一つ消えてしまうのが残念です。

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stop by since my hotel had its own onsen, but I’m glad I did. The outdoor baths are lovely and I had a nice time in here. Plenty of space as well since Hoshinoya guests are given private access for an hour in the morning.

I was really disappointed by this visit—especially because it was my wife’s first onsen experience, and I had hoped it would reflect the calm, respectful atmosphere onsens are known for. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. While the facility itself is quite nice—clean, well-maintained, and visually pleasant—it completely failed to uphold the basic etiquette that makes an onsen enjoyable and sanitary. The rules are clearly posted, but they’re not enforced at all. On the men’s side, things were somewhat better, but there were still quite a few visitors (mostly foreign tour groups) ignoring the etiquette: yelling across pools, splashing, and dipping their hair into the water. The women’s side, however, was total chaos. My wife described it as bedlam—women talking loudly, dipping their hair into the baths, and generally disregarding the rules. It was stressful and unhygienic, the opposite of what an onsen should be. Onsens rely on everyone following the traditions—washing properly before entering, keeping towels and hair out of the water, and maintaining a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. When so many people break these rules, it’s not just unpleasant—it becomes a sanitation issue. This facility really needs active staff presence to educate guests and, if necessary, remove those who ignore the etiquette. Setting a capacity limit would also help maintain order. It’s a shame, because the onsen itself has potential. With better rule enforcement and respect for tradition, it could be a wonderful experience. But as it stands, I wouldn’t recommend it—especially for first-timers hoping to experience a true Japanese onsen atmosphere.

Nice onsen with one outdoor and one indoor onsen. Everything was clean. I stayed at BEB5 and paid 600 yen to get in, comes with a set of towels. Sauna room was small and could get crowded easily.

Well worth the 1500Y for day-use onsen! The outdoor bath boasts a beautiful view of the autumn maple trees. There is an indoor bath as well complete with a view of the garden outside. We love the friendly service and delicious food in the cafe too. Best of all, there is a public bus service just outside the onsen.

It is my personal opinion, so far been to different onsens in Japan, this onsen was an average. I didn't find any wow factor in comparison to the price. The shower area is quite big. The open bath area outside is small enough for a busy day. I would have been satisfied if there would have been jacuzzi or cold milk fridge or relaxation room.

My wife (Japanese) and I (German) went there today we purchased cover stickers for her tattoos. The clerk in men dressing room asked me three times for giving me support in covering my non-existent tattoos! Embarrassing, how can you assume the foreigner has tattoos even we clearly communicated this? Even more they checked after me when going to bathroom and in shower room if I really have no tattoos. The bath is fine, nice and clean, but please listen to customer and do assume only foreigners have tattoos.

Daytriped from Tokyo which took under 2hours; 1h by Shinkansen and 50m by bus. Very pretty public onsen, surrounded by nature. Although the women area had just 2 pools (1 indoor and 1 outdoor). it felt very spacious. This is the nicest public onsen I had visited. Entrance fee is y1350, and towels can be rented at extra costs.

Do not go: - Not a 5 Star hotel - Rooms are very old and not like the pictures - Mountain view rooms don't see the mountains. They see a tree and nothing else - Staff cannot speak english and actually uses a voice translator and they lack the minimum problem-solving skills - Impossible to get a shuttle from the station to the hotel without having to wait long time - Concierge service is non-existant and the staff doesnt help booking restaurants and experiences. As in this part of Japan no one speak english is virtually impossible to book DO NOT GO

For a high end place, the service was severely lacking. I don't feel the front desk had a good handle of English because there was great confusion many times for our entire stay. Also completely stroller and wheelchair inaccessible. You'll need to call upon staff to help you down the various stairs. Or take the van in and out from your building to the front but then you won't get to enjoy the beautiful grounds within. It was beautiful there but the service was so lacking. The cleaning staff had arrived as I was departing and I changed my mind and told them I no longer needed amenities refreshment. It seemed to be a big ordeal, eventually there were 3 staff members there with confused looks. I asked for more water in the room please and that was also very confusing so I said nevermind. There was also confusion about the dining and reservations. I called to make a reservation and was told in room dining 830 okay. Then I spoke to my friend in another room who said they couldn't do in room dining until 930 so I called back to verify. They could not do in room dining because one of her children is older and required a second meal while I only have a baby so I needed just one meal. However upon my calling back, she also inquired if I wanted Western or Japanese. Good thing I called back because she didn't ask initially. Then the morning of, they inquire about us being vegetarians. I'm vegan but my daughter is vegetarian so there were a lot of questions there. They think vegetarians can have fish and for the purpose of not starving myself or my daughter, I had to accept bonito and fish broth. It was very sad. I'm glad my daughter ate most of the breakfast, because I did not want to. Upon our checkout, my taxi had arrived and they did not help to take my bags to the trunk. I have my baby I put in the car so I didn't want to leave her to grab the bags but I had to because no one was coming despite looking at me and confirming my taxi arrived. They helped once I started to grab my bags but too little too late. My biggest issue is for such a nice place with foreign visitors, how are they unable to accommodate vegans. I just don't understand why they can't have a couple vegan options available. Some tofu and noodles, it's not asking for much. There are really no other options, there's no delivery services up here and the town is not very walkable with the stroller or wheelchair. You walk on the main road a lot which is unsafe with 3 young kids in tow. The kids room was a pleasant surprise, it was sufficient for our 1, 2, and 6 year old. The rooms were spacious and the bath was very nice. Overall, while there were many families with young kids here, I would not say it's family friendly. And certainly not vegan friendly.

I’m so shocked at the amount of complainers giving sub-par reviews. Hoshinoya Karuizawa was hands down the most luxurious quality experience my husband and I have ever had! The staff are incredibly friendly, and even with a slight language barrier everyone was super attentive and truly wonderful. The onsen was magical, and the grounds are perfectly maintained. The restaurant on-site was genuinely the most unique and fascinating dining experience we’ve had so far in Japan - HIGHLY recommend the 9-course meal! Also, we got the cheapest room and it’s pure luxury. The room is massive and everything is perfectly clean and comfortable. This is 100% a 5/5 experience! I’m so grateful we got to spend a few days here in the middle of our Japan trip 🫶

Our two-night stay at 虹夕諾雅 輕井澤 was pure tranquility. The sprawling grounds enveloped us in hushed seclusion—the very peace we craved. Our suite felt like a private sanctuary, with a spacious terrace where we could quietly enjoy a cigarette while gazing at the starlit forest. Every meal was a revelation of refined Kaiseki artistry, though the generous courses occasionally overwhelmed my partner's appetite. The autumnal Momiji framing the ryokan surpassed all imagination, turning every path into a living postcard. Expectations were not just met, but gracefully transcended.

Such a beautiful hotel at a beautiful location. Our stay was wonderful and I loved all the amenities. They have a free shuttle dropping you off at the plaza nearby or to the station if you reserve in advance and it’s walking distance to the nearby public onsen and restaurant as well. They have snacks and drinks available and private onsen as well. I also loved the hinoki bath inside our bathroom. Lovely place, 10/5. I also enjoyed having dinner there as well. The meat quality of the shabu was fantastic.

Breath taking tranquil property with tons of unique amenities and activities. Be sure to explore the full grounds including the tea house for little surprises here and there. Onsen was very nice - the "dark room" was very interesting. The hospitality was well balanced with tradition. We felt very sad to leave! We would love to return in the future and to try other Hoshinoya properties.

My 6 day family vacation during Korean Chu-suk holiday season was just perfect. Beautiful foods, lazy lounge happy hour with dang-go, nice onsen, unique nature activities, and great staffs.

Nice easy walk. Nice cafe beside a small pond.

Pinned location is in the middle of nowhere!!! Don’t try and go there. Not sure where the real location is.

One of the highlights of our trip to Japan! Great experience seeing japanese giant flying squirrels as part of a tour. Small groups. Very informative. Takeyuki san had fantastic English and was swapping between English and Japanese for all participants. Got to see the beautiful Musasabi gliding! Very conscious of not impacting on the animals and making sure they are not frightened. Not fed (good thing).Thanks Takeyuki san!

Was so nice walking through the forest here in winter. Beautiful view of mount Asama, and lots of nice birds to listen to and see.

The pin location is wrong, don’t go there! The sanctuary is in another place

Nice forest, many birds and insects. There is guided tour, do some research before you visit there.

Beautiful pan for a break and relax.

(Translated by Google) Around 1992, three of us went on a day trip by motorbike 🏍️. We were tired, so we asked what we were going to eat for lunch ☕, and what the local specialties were. Katsudon: "What? You come all the way to Koko for a katsudon 🤔?" "What else?" "Spaghetti? Is spaghetti Italian?" Then we asked soba: "Soba? You can get that in Nikko too." We walked around saying this and that, got hungry, and ended up having ramen 🍜. It was ☂️ on the way back. I remember the ☂️ on the motorbike 🏍️ was a bit tough. Hahahaha 💪 (Original) 1992年頃3人で🏍️バイクで日帰りの旅。疲れまして、さて😋昼☕何を食べるとのことで、何が名物なのか?と、問いかける。カツ丼『えっkokoまで来てカツ丼🤔』何かないの『スパゲティえっ〜スパゲティイタリアかよ』あとは蕎麦『蕎麦かよ日光でも食えるぞ』と、あ〜だのこうだの、言いながら歩き歩き腹が減って、ラーメン🍜を食べたのか。帰りは☂️でした。🏍️バイクの☂️は少々きつかったような記憶でした。もうすがはははは💪

Karuizawa St. Paul’s Catholic Church is a charming, peaceful spot surrounded by nature. Its quaint wooden architecture and serene ambiance make it a lovely place for quiet reflection or a short visit. Though small, the setting feels sacred and timeless, often enhanced by the sound of birds or soft sunlight filtering through the trees. It’s also a popular stop for photos, especially in autumn or winter. A beautiful example of simple spiritual architecture in a scenic resort town.

St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Karuizawa is a serene and beautiful place that perfectly blends faith, history, and architecture. Designed by the renowned architect Antonin Raymond, this charming wooden church is surrounded by lush trees and peaceful nature, offering a calm escape from the busy streets of Karuizawa. The architecture is simple yet elegant, with warm wooden tones that harmonize beautifully with the natural surroundings. Sunlight filtering through the stained-glass windows creates a quiet, sacred atmosphere inside. Whether you are religious or not, stepping into this church brings a sense of peace and reflection. It’s a popular spot for visitors who want to experience Karuizawa’s spiritual side and admire one of its most iconic buildings. Many couples also choose this church for weddings because of its timeless charm. St. Paul’s Catholic Church is truly a hidden gem—ideal for those seeking tranquility, beauty, and a touch of history in Karuizawa.

The Karuizawa St. Paul Catholic Church! Located in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan, this church is a beautiful and historic landmark. Here's what you need to know: History: - Built in 1935 by French missionary Father Joseph Jennesseaux. - Designed in a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with a distinctive bell tower. - Has served as a place of worship for the local Catholic community and tourists alike. Features: - Stunning stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. - Ornate interior with wooden pews and a grand organ. - Peaceful surroundings, including a small garden and a statue of the Virgin Mary. Visiting Information: - Address: 3151-1 Karuizawa, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0111. - Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April - November), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (December - March). - Mass schedule: Sundays at 10:00 AM (English) and 2:00 PM (Japanese). Tips and Insights: - Getting there: Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station, then walk or take a taxi. - Dress modestly when visiting the church. - Photography allowed, but be respectful of worshippers and the church's interior. - Nearby attractions include the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and the Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary. The Karuizawa St. Paul Catholic Church is a serene and historic destination for those interested in architecture, faith, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat.

I really loved the inside of this church. It was simple yet beautiful. It felt solemn & intimate. A nice church to visit when in the area.

Peaceful and beautiful church. Worth a short visit while exploring Karuizawa.

Karuizawa St. Paul Catholic Church. I went there on June 15th 2024 with a friend who got married in this church 46 years ago on June 11th 1978. She said it was memorable. The pastor was Father Carlos Martinez, OFM from Colombia. He has passed away. We met Father Takano and he prayed for my friend. According to Father Takano, some couples came back to this church to offer thanksgiving for their 50th wedding anniversary together with their children and grandchildren. Praise the Lord!

Beautiful but very small Would take probably three minutes to finish Could make it as one small attraction but don’t expect to see something spectacular Peaceful though

Not easy to get to this shop for tourists if no car. The coffee shop is located at the other side of the railway from Karuizawa machi. Do not feel afraid of getting lost when you see the railway, thinking of no way to go further. Just get on the overpass and you will soon find it after walking over. Good atmosphere for having a cup of champion coffee and some rest here! The champion coffee is 710 yen per cup.

Although the shop is located outside the inner city of Karuizawa, it has a cozy, homey atmosphere, featuring classic Western-style decor and surrounded by plenty of trees. You’ll need to drive or take a taxi to get there. We visited based on a recommendation from locals when we asked about their favorite coffee shops. The staff member, who speaks fluent English due to having lived in the USA, asked about our preferences for light or dark roasts, offered helpful recommendations, and even gave us free tastings. We ended up buying several coffee drip bags as souvenirs. The latte was exceptionally flavorful and aromatic. Overall, our experience exceeded expectations, and we will definitely return whenever we have another chance.

Great coffee whether black or with milk. Take a bit of time to make them but worth it. Nice place to sit and have a cup of coffee. Many coffee beans to take home, I mean a lot. Obviously they roast as well.

Award winning coffee in a hidden cottage, I rent a bicycle nearby the JR station to reach here. Spaces are limited here, but I like the environment settings. The coffee is well deserved reputation. I ordered a curry rice for lunch, it tasted a little bit tangy & spicy unlike the sweetened version of Japanese curry. No worries, it’s just tastes great. Wrapped up the lunch with season limited chestnut cake, happy ending

There are plenty of coffee shops that serve much better coffee. Just because it’s a French press doesn’t mean it’s good. On top of that, the staff’s cold and businesslike attitude was quite unpleasant.

Good coffee selection and worth to spend time to taste the freshly brew coffee ☕

A surprisingly homely main branch of the Maruyama Coffee group. The cafe has a wonderfully warm feel, although the open fireplace would have something to do with it. There is a large variety of coffee available, although not surprisingly, the range seems less than before Covid. The coffee was brewed well, and the cakes delicious. Service was professional and helpful.

Frankly speaking it’s a little disappointing. The design of the museum is new and cool, however very limited pieces of exhibits, and the theme wasn’t attractive. There’s a cafe on the ground floor where you can chill out and coffee was not bad, but wouldn’t visit again.

I was very happy to visit gallery today. They had the AYO exhibition, which was very colourful. The gallery is very modern and and has other art collections as well as a good selection of art books. They also have a cafe attached. I enjoyed my experience, well worth a visit.

Philip Colbert's exhibition "Journey to the Lobster Planet" was the focus of the gallery when we arrived and wow, it was amazing. Considered as the "godson of Andy Warhol", the exhibition showcased Philip's mastery of pop history painting. Besides his exhibition, we were also drawn to some rare pieces of Yayoi Kusama and Meissen. Truly wonderful experience.

The first floor is free, while the main exhibit on the second floor requires a fee. The docents went out of their way to be helpful and pointed out things I may have missed. I really enjoyed the whole experience. The shop and cafe are nice spots to check out as well.

Karuizawa New Art Museum Is located 10 minutes walk away from Karuizawa Station First floor is Free Admission And you need to pay to see the Second floor Adult ¥1200 Senior & University students ¥900 Elementery & Junior ¥600 Free admission for PreSchool students Admission 20 people group and above is a lot cheaper Overall its a cool and modern Museum that I have ever been too Cool interior and cozy space They sell works of Japanese and Western artists and some interesting books On the First Floor there’s Key’s Cafe They have good Caramel latte It’s worth the visit

Nice modern museum in town with contemporary exhibits Around 10 mins walking distance from Karuizawa Station

Supposedly new but their only method of paying is by cash, the Senju museum is the same price and seem to be older but they have various method of payment. Embarrassing

Real fun place to visit. You can bring your dog here and have fun even in the rain.

Old and dated. I've been to others and they have been much better. If you are desperate to kill time and spend money, then go. Otherwise, don't waste your time

Cute trick art museum , pet friendly. Nice 30 minute activity on Ginza street . You can store your luggage at the entrance at coin locker. Has a cute cafe , I recommend the pumpkin soup with plain waffles.

The place is well-maintained and is decently accessible from the station, although a car would make it a breeze. The collection of trick-arts is decent and is similar to what you see in the trick art museum at Tokyo. It has a direct connection to the Kyu Karuizawa Ginza Dori. Parking is free for the first 90 minutes. Tickets are on the pricier side.

Very fun, just inside the main karuizawa road

We came here because of Terrace house! The date on the show was bad, and visiting here was just as bad... It is ‎¥‎1,500 per adult. There are 3 floors of rooms where you can take photos of illusions. Sometimes these are just paintings with angle tricks of your camera, other times there are props. Each station has a photo example or instructions on how to take the best photo. These were annoying because they were placed on the ground and hard to read. Usually the example photos were also not so great, but they have customer photos randomly placed in each room, these photos were better / more creative. Overall most of the 'tricks' were poorly done. I actually found parts of the museum about older illusion tricks that you've seen in books, far more interesting. They also explained how and why they worked. If you're in Karuizawa, you can skip this museum. Maybe its fun for kids? If its just adults, its a big skip.

A lot of fun. The price is a bit expensive (1500yen), but considering that we spent over two hours here, it was worth it. It would be best with a medium-sized group, to get multiple combinations of silly photographs. I think children ages six and up would be able to enjoy this.

I booked a bit too last minute and ended up choosing the cottage. Be total aware some cottages doesn’t have an aircon which is just confusing why not. Don’t chose this hotel if u r not here for golf or wanting to be near to the station or outlet. Outlet food sucks and it probably takes you forever to get to the hotels restaurant from the cottages l. It just literally takes u forever to go anywhere using the bus pick up system. Otherwise staffs r nice and rooms r clean

Check-in was easy. Free shuttle to our cabin. Each of the 4 rooms has individual clean bathroom. The cabin is warm & cozy. The place is quite, the only sound we hear are the birds in the morning. Only downside is that the parking is 2000 yen for 2 nights.

Karuizawa has many famous hotels, and guests can choose from different lodging areas. I chose a cabin, and the benefit is that it is incredibly quiet. I can also take a walk directly in the forest early in the morning, enjoying the delightful mist and nature. The drawback is that if you want to go shopping or visit restaurants, you must take a shuttle bus and need to pay attention to its schedule.

Nice view from the lodge. The lodge is a bit old though. the whole resort is very nice for morning walk. Good activity halls, you can tennis, golf, rent a bike and onsen in autumn.

The cabins we rented ard very ages and too far from the main area. We had a huge issue with crickets and some cockroaches. The hotel staff were amazing. They upgraded our family to two luxury suites that interconnected in the main building. I couldn't praised their service enough. The main suites were beautiful and well apportioned. Highly recommend.

This place is big. There are 2 types of lodgings, the regular hotel ones, and cabins in the woods surrounded by tall trees. We stayed at a cabin. During check in and check out, a van will bring you and your luggage to/from the cabin. This place is just next to the Prince outlet shopping area which is also huge.

Had a great stay at Karuizawa Prince Hotel West! Clean and comfy rooms with nice mountain views. Staff were friendly and helpful. Perfect location near shopping. Highly recommend!

Absolutely delicious food and huge bonus that it is dog friendly as well! Everything is seasoned to perfection. Had an absolutely hearty breakfast here. We had the grilled chicken set, as well as the saba. The grilled chicken is out of this world. There were little fat content but it was cooked to perfection. Extremely flavorful with a charcoal taste to it. Saba still have that strong fishy smell , but people who likes saba will love it. The sauce that it comes with, pairs very well. Saba meat was very soft. All the sides that came with it was great too! We had a baby with us and they kindly offered miso soup + rice + some furikake rice topping. Really appreciate the kind gesture. Highly recommended!

Lucky to grab a table Enjoyed the view of rain through the windows Very traditional very Japanese - all locals except me? Simple tamago with High quality rice is satisfying 😌

This Japanese restaurant is one of the reasons I keep coming back every time I visit Karuizawa. The laid-back atmosphere is so relaxing, and the comforting dishes are always well-balanced and healthy. It’s the kind of food that nourishes both body and soul, making every visit feel special and satisfying.

Experience the essence of genuine Japanese home and country cooking here. The meal, featuring fluffy rice, comforting miso soup, vibrant fermented vegetables, and perfectly grilled fish, is all exceptionally delicious. You'll dine within a grand structure that lovingly evokes traditional Japanese architectural styles. Online reservations are highly recommended.

This is easily the best meal our family had in Karuizawa. 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking for dishes made with local ingredients. The vibe is immaculate too.

We had great lunch in here. It's highly recommended.

The traditional Japanese breakfast was delicious! The rice was cooked in a traditional pot, the grilled salmon had that charcoal flavor, and the miso soup was incredibly tasty too. The restaurant had a charming old Japanese house vibe, and the staff were really friendly.

Visited the hotel because it was known for being John Lennon’s retreat hotel in Japan. Strong Wes Anderson vibes. Some staff doesn’t speak English, but overall it’s manageable. Recommend visiting their cafe even if you’re not staying here.

I attended my dearest friend’s wedding at Mampei hotel on October. I had an amazing wedding banquet lunch here. The banquet staff were all well trained. They were polite, efficient and attentive. All in all, I must say my friend chose a wonderful hotel to hold their wedding banquet in.

Mampei Hotel is absolutely stunning. One of the most beautiful places I've stayed at. Remodeled yet historic, comfortable, wonderful. Famous for being the reference for Studio Ghibli's The Wind Rises and also because John Lennon visited. ARRIVAL After check-in we were escorted through the buildings and a series of elevators and different hallways with stained glass and patterned carpet, all beautiful and in a retro vibe. We were personally shown to the room, which was in dark wood, had frost-patterned sliding windows, a small seating area to a forest view. The large white marble bathroom had a modern bathtub and towel warming rack. HISTORICAL DETAILS Before heading into the bar in the evening, we enjoyed looking at the historical display just outside the bar. Old keys with long key holders, a timeline showing the hotel’s early days as the “Turtle Hotel,” turtle-motif smoking dishes, original china, door handle examples, and more. The atmosphere overall feels carefully preserved but also updated for modern times. BAR EXPERIENCE The bar area has both tables and counter seating, and most tables were taken when we visited at 9pmish. The cocktail menu included both classics and house specialties. One specialty cocktail was whiskey-based with tomato juice, tea, and honeyed ginger syrup—created by one of the bartenders and recognized in a Oct 2025 cocktail competition. Another was a seasonal fruit cocktail featuring persimmon (strawberry was sold out) The tomato cocktail arrived on a coaster shaped like Hokkaido, with glassware and ingredients all connected to the region. For the second round, we chose from the classic cocktail list, which was ordered by alcohol strength. One was a strong whiskey-based classic Godfather, served with a sphere of ice and a glass of water; the other was a Bamboo, with dry vermouth and dry sherry. It was poured tableside into a frosted glass—very aromatic and complex, sharp on the first sip then fading into a dry, clean finish. CAFE At the café, the apple pie is famous and was very flavorful with thick apple filling. The seasonal chestnut roll cake was also excellent with cream and was light. It was November 2025 and peak autumn colors which surrounded the hotel. SHOP The hotel’s signature cookies were available in beautifully packaged boxes, premium in price. Stickers and stationery also available along with teas too, very gift-ready. Mampei Hotel is very beautiful. Would totally visit again.

Beautiful preserved interior. It is an old hotel with a lot of history. The food is great. Be sure to visit the cafe terrace and have John Lennon's favorite combo of apple pie and royal mill tea. There is also an old bus that picks you up infront of the hotel and takes you to a mountain view spot. There is a bicycle rental close by about 3 minutes from the hotel. It is also close to the main street which is great because there are many interesting shops to enjoy.

Biked over for a slice of Mampei’s apple pie and roll cake. Both are warm, heavenly tasty memories of this most lovely hotel. Its architecture and elegant ambiance takes you back to a special time of Karuizawa’s history.

Traditional hotel opened centuries ago. It has great access to ginza street, which is a vibrant shopping street. You can feel the history of Japan's developing era. In summer term, you can enjoy peach shaved ice. It's a bit expensive but worthwhile. With Peach fruit and sauce, the best I have ever had.

Hotel and food is good. Server made mistake with the bill and took 30 minutes to resolve the issue.

The tour is really nice, for the detailed and interesting explanation. We are from other country, besides from Japanese, the guide also explains in English and makes sure that every member in my family understands what he was saying. Our guide also brings all kinds of seeds, plants, and animal mascots with him. Since it was a rainy day when we get a tour, there wasn’t many birds, so the guide uses all kinds of mascots and plants he brought with him to help people understand what kind of plant or animal he was saying now. I fully recommend people visiting Karuizawa to attend the tour, it really helps for understanding the place more.

What a wonderful nature tour and hike! Sachiko-san (小口）was a lovely guide and so knowledgeable about the birds and fauna. we even saw a baby musasabi in its nesting box! Highly recommended

It was a fun experience. You start in a room in the restaurant where there is a slide show and explanation in Japanese and simple English. The staff know which of the squirrel boxes have squirrels in them so they can take you to the right area. They use a monitor and live feed to show you inside the box, we were lucky, 2 squirrels were in there! Actually seeing the squirrels come out, climb the tree and then glide us over very quickly. We felt we learned a lot though.

This is my second time touring with this company. The first was in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, and once again, they didn’t disappoint. As expected, our guide was incredibly passionate. We stopped to observe birds, tadpoles, and (sleeping) flying squirrels. The pace was relatively slow, but that’s understandable given the wide range of ages and fitness levels they accommodate. I highly recommend joining the 1:30pm tour right after lunch. It’s a great way to burn off some calories and far more meaningful than just sitting in a nearby café.

Traveling as a couple, we did both the nature walk (Yoshi-san) and the night time flying squirrel tour (Lily-san) both were fantastic and we were able to grab lunch in-between at the food court down the hill. As a nature-educator adjacent professional myself, Yoshi-san's unique style of storytelling and deep connection with the forest inspires me to level up my own game. We were shown animal tracks and even the unique mutualist relationship between native plants and insects. Lily-san is SO good with kids. In our group, we had a little girl always walking alongside her, it's clear that the kids really look up to her. Lily-san helped us call a taxi at the end of the night because our Sakura mobile plan doesn't come with a phone number. Thank you Picchio Karuizawa! I'd also highly recommend their Shiretoko branch as well.

Went on the evening Flying Squirrel tour. The presenter did a great job speaking in both Japanese and English. The view of the squirrel is brief but rewarding. お疲れ様でした。

Had a wonderful tour and viewing of the giant flying squirrels. Our host was friendly, informative and accommodating and the squirrels were adorable to watch grooming in the nest and eventually flying. A great cause to support conservation.

Nice view of the mountains in Gunma. The red bus will take you there from old karuizawa city. You can take a hike though the forest on your way back, but there are warning signs for bears in the area.

The place is convenient for going by car. There is a parking near the observation field. It is cost 500 yen, but many vehicles park at the front of the gate. After walking for 3 minutes, we can see the breathtaking mountain view around the pass. The view is relaxing! It will free your problems into the air. The toilet is also clean and free. There is comfort for us! We recommended to go here! Whatever season is good!

The Usui Pass Observation Platform is a stunning scenic stop that perfectly captures the natural beauty of the Nagano–Gunma border. The panoramic views of rolling ridgelines, misty valleys, and layered mountains are absolutely breathtaking — it feels like standing inside a living painting. It’s an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone driving through the area, especially if you enjoy photography or simply want to take in some quiet, peaceful mountain air. The lookout point is well-maintained, with plenty of space to stretch your legs and soak up the views. Whether you’re on a road trip or passing between Karuizawa and Gunma, this spot is a must-visit. The scenery changes beautifully with the light and weather, offering something special every time. A hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Observation area between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures offering scenic views of the mountains. A popular rest spot for hikers but is not accessible by public transportation.

Awesome view, nice hike. Love it! Check my pics. Go there not touristy. Nature is so beautiful.

This pass is part of the Nakasendo Way hike. A great hike and this is just one of the beautiful places along Way.

Hiking is possible if you’re very fit and has a 18-30 years old stamina 😄 as it inclined hike and not much footpath. Bike riding is prohibited. Also there’s a bear warning!!! About 40minutes hike from Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church or 5m drive. We took a bus 🚌 which takes us up to observatory and/or shrine. Return trip is 2000 yen cash only. See the picture of the red bus, the timetable can be found just outside the public toilet near the Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church

First time at an outdoor skating rink which felt quite magical, but the ice isn't what you would expect from an indoor well-groomed rink, so do keep that in mind. admission includes the skates and helmet rental. Compulsory to have either helmet or a beanie, and gloves. Skates aren't great. they have wooden chairs that you can use as a helping tool which is great. Seems like a popular dating spot. Went on a Friday afternoon and it wasn't crowded. Cafe serves simple coffee and hot chocolate. There's parking just down the road - spend 2000yen and get 2 hours free.

Magical ice rink set amongst beautiful autumn foliage! Cafe serves amazing beverages. Great place to spend a couple of hours.

First time skating on real ice! It was fun! The rental fee for the skate boots was reasonable! Remember to bring your own helmet/ hat and gloves!

Quite a small pond you can skate on. I was pleasantly surprised that their rental skates went up to my size of 31cm. For a much better deal, check out the Kazakoshi Park Outdoor Skate Rink.

Such a fun experience in winter. Obviously only available when its cold enough.

Good service. They have English-speaking staff who prepared our shoes and rental hoodie. The inside was warm and nice. The rink was small, maybe because we came in November, not much snow to go :)) Beautiful scenery, I can imagine how it will be more amazing in the winter time. Not much to do, but skate. They have warm drinks, but that's about it. Recommended if you'd like to skate with beautiful scenery.

A natural pond ice rink. Friendly staff. Not too crowded on a Saturday afternoon! The season for the natural pond area ends earlier than the attached, smaller “man made” area so if that’s perhaps something to confirm ahead of time.

Very friendly staff

(Translated by Google) This is a prestigious golf club with a long history located in front of Hotel Kashima no Morimae. You can make a reservation if you stay at Hotel Kashima no Mori. If you stay at a hotel, it's right in front of you, so you can change clothes and walk there. It is the fourth historic golf course in Japan, opened in 1920. 6 holes in 2 out-in-out There are 18 holes. Play 12 holes, then take a break, then play 6 holes. There are also two types of scorecards: one for 18 holes and one for 12 holes. There are two types of tea available in front of the master room. Although it is short, there are quite a few ups and downs, and the bunkers are quite noticeable. Most of the holes are dogleg, and there are many holes where you can't see the pin from the tee. The greens also have a lot of double tiers, and the descents are quite fast, so it's tough to get on top. It's straight towards the clubhouse, and the descent is even faster. I played on October 13th and the leaves had turned a little red. The playing fee for 4 people is about 19,000 yen per person. (Original) ホテル鹿島の森前の歴史有る名門ゴルフ倶楽部です。 ホテル鹿島の森に泊まると予約が取れます。 ホテルに泊まると目の前ですので着替えて歩いて行けます。 日本で４番目1920年開場の歴史あるゴルフ場です。 6ホールが２つでアウト～イン～アウト のように回って18ホールです。 12ホール回ってから休憩して、その後6ホール回ります。 スコアカードも、18ホール用と、12ホール用の２種類が用意されています。 マスター室前にティーが２種類置いてあります。 短めですが、アップダウンはそれなりにあり、バンカーはかなり気になります。 殆どのホールがドッグレッグしていて、ティからピンが見えないホールが多いです。 グリーンも二段が多くて、下りはかなり速いので上に着けると辛いです。 クラブハウスに向かって順目で、下りは更に速いです。 10/13日プレーで少し紅葉してました。 ４人でプレーフィーは一人約19000円ほどです。

(Translated by Google) A golf course with only 12 holes. Prestigious membership does not allow visitors to play alone. The course is very well managed. Although the distance is short, accuracy is required for the shot. Eating at the restaurant feels like eating at a luxury hotel. The caddies and staff are also very responsive. (Original) 12ホールだけのゴルフ場。名門メンバーシップでビジターだけのプレーは不可。コースはとても良く管理されている。距離は短いがショットは正確性が必要。レストランでの食事は高級ホテルで食べているような感じ。キャディーやスタッフの対応もとても良い。

(Translated by Google) The course was well maintained and nice Maybe it was because I went around 6 holes ✖️2 twice, or maybe it was because I didn't have a cart during the ups and downs, but when I came up I was exhausted. But I definitely want to go again! (Original) コースは手入れが行き届き素晴らしかったです 6ホール✖️2を2回周ったせいか、アップダウンがある中カート無しだったせいか、上がってきたらくたくたでした。 でもまた是非行きたいです！

(Translated by Google) There were only 6 holes for both in and out, and I played in-out-in (6-6-6). I went at the end of August, and I thoroughly enjoyed playing in the freshness of the highlands. It was a great course with fairways and greens in great condition. It was empty, so we had a relaxing lunch on the outdoor deck, and the famous curry and rice was delicious! (Original) イン、アウトとも6ホールしかなく、イン-アウト-イン（6ー6ー6）でまわりました。8月の終わりに行きましたが、高原の爽やかさの中でのプレイを堪能しました。フェアウェイ、グリーンともコンディションは最高、素晴らしいコースでした。空いていたので、ランチは屋外のデッキ席でゆっくりと、名物のカレーライスも美味しかった！

(Translated by Google) Former Karuizawa Golf Club. You can play a comfortable round that won't feel like summer. Because of the altitude, the flying distance will also increase. Lunch is on the terrace, with the famous fillet cutlet curry and Western food! It was very delicious. (Original) 旧軽井沢ゴルフ倶楽部。夏とは思えない快適なラウンドができます。標高もあるのでこころなしか飛距離もアップします。ランチはテラス席で、名物のヒレカツのカレー、洋食っ！ていう感じでたいへん美味でございました。

(Translated by Google) A very calm and beautiful course. I had to go around three of the six holes. I was able to play at a leisurely pace. Thanks to the caddy, I was able to manage, but the greens were extremely difficult. (Original) とても落ち着いた美しいコース ６ホールの３回はまわりだった ゆったり回れた キャディーさんのお陰でなんとかなるもグリーンが超難しかった

Food was good. Slightly over priced compared to western prices. However the french toast was extremely overpriced for $17 CAD or 1700 yen. I thought I would get a full meal seat, however it was just a slice of bread dipped in egg. It was a good single slice of french toast, but absolutely not $17. Maybe $7 max. I recommend getting the standard breakfast meal set, better for your value. I had an allergy and couldn't eat the salad, they weren't able to accommodate or have an alternative side dish like potatoes or hash. I understand Japanese culture doesn't allow for adjustments, however if this restaurant is really trying to appeal to foreigners or present itself as a western style restaurant, they should at least have some alternatives for people with dietary restrictions. All western diners provide some basic flexibility for their customers. This is my feedback for the area of improvement. This would improve service quality a lot more. My wife's breakfast meal was great, however I was disappointed with my french toast set meal unfortunately.

Beautiful cafe with delicious bakery items. The meat pie and raspberry chocolate croissant were probably the most sought after items and well worth! The raspberry chocolate flavors outstanding. Coffee was very average and not worth the price at all. Just these 4 items and bill shooted to 2300-2500yen so will consider is quite expensive!!!

If you're ever in Karuizawa, you have to check this place out. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and enjoy every bite. The atmosphere is cozy and stylish, with big windows and a nice outdoor terrace — perfect for a quiet breakfast or lunch. The staff is super friendly too, which makes the experience even better. The first thing you’ll notice is how cozy and welcoming the space feels. The interior is bright and stylish, but the real gem is the serene backyard terrace. It’s beautiful all year round, but in the winter, it turns into a quiet, snowy retreat — the kind of place where you can sip hot coffee, eat freshly baked bread, and just relax while watching soft snow fall around you. It’s honestly magical. Whether you're picking up pastries or sitting down for a quiet lunch, Sawamura is the kind of place that leaves an impression. It’s peaceful, delicious, and just feels good to be there — especially when everything is covered in snow. The highlight here is definitely the bread — they take it seriously. Everything is freshly baked, and you can taste the difference. I had my hojicha latte and loving every single sip of it. This spot is absolutely on my itinerary for my next Japan trip.

Such a beautiful venue, can accommodate a lot of people. The bakery is right next to the restaurant. The venue is new but still has some charm & ver welcoming staff. The food is quite tasty & they also give bread for free with your lumch! The bread is from the bakery, quite good actually! They also have a nice & quiet terrace

The pastries are excellent! I got the almond croissant and the layers were yummy and buttery. I also got the hazelnut chocolate banana bread - the chocolate pieces were great. The coffee (Sawamura Bakery Blend) was not special nor very nice. The cashier was friendly - I appreciate his kind words!

Great service. Even for english speaker, Nice pastry and very warm ambience. They also have soy milk for latte.

Male clerk deliberately harasses foreigners. Heads up, foreign friends! That male clerk with glasses at checkout picks on foreigners. Even though he clearly speaks clearly, he deliberately speaks Japanese super fast and acts incredibly impatient, making things difficult on purpose. When taking payment, he even rolls his eyes. That guy is seriously messed up, avoid him like the plague! On the other hand, the female staff in the store are all very polite, kind, and super helpful (and yes, they're also beautiful).

Overall, it was an enjoyable place, but here's a short list of the pros and cons. Pros: 1. The view and nature was nice, and the look added to the peaceful atmosphere. 2. The service and staff were very friendly and welcoming. 3. There was a special hair treatment. 4. Hair dryers were free, unlike most hot springs. 5. The body wash, conditioner, and shampoo all smelled wonderfully of herbs and fresh plants. 6. it is definitely NOT a tourist trap. We saw only locals, and only 2 or 3, so it felt nice to be nearly alone. Cons: 1. The hygiene was so-so. The tiles were a little dirty especially because I could feel the algae in some ridges. 2. the sauna was not very hot, so it wasn't the best experience. 3. There were no mirrors in the showers.

We took the Bus from the Karuizawa Station to this Onsen. It’s about a 20-25 minute ride. The Onsen is a 10 minute walk from the bus stop. This is a Traditional Onsen tucked in the nature with creeks and ponds all around. Locker room area pretty large and clean. The showers have shampoo/conditioner/body wash. There are 3 hot baths (2 outdoors and one indoor) a dry sauna and a cold tub. The outdoor baths are amazing and made my skin silky smooth. The scenery is amazing. The front staff were nice and there are some items for purchase at the front entry area.

A beautiful Onsen to visit, the waters are inviting and healing, the backdrop is stunning and certainly adds to the overall experience. A must visit if you are in the area.

This might’ve been most unclean hot springs I’ve ever been in Japan. It was ¥1,550 to enter plus ¥200 for towel. Tho whole facility is very old and dirty, and definitely not worth that much entrance fee. At least female bath had someone else’s hair literally everywhere in washing area, and even in the tub, and also in drying area too. Obviously not enough cleaning are done. Even tho it costs 1,550 to enter, there is absolutely no amenities either. It’s not like their spring water quality are overly impressive so I say skip it. There are way better places for onsen elsewhere.

Quite pricey. With this price I expect some amenities at least q-tips or cotton pads but there was noting at all. Overall facilities and equipment are rather old however the onsen was good and relaxing.

It has nice hot spring water, but the facility is a bit outdated for Karuizawa.

Pretty good 👍 place ....should enjoy when around karuizawa. Discount available for local residents and JAF members.... Sauna and open bath is pretty good.

A rather small ski resort, but the unique thing is that they have a nice snow park for kids. The lane for beginner isn’t long enough as well. Wouldn’t recommend to those who want serious skiing experience but would be a great place for kids to play with snow.

Beginner friendly place! And it is cheaper! They have free shuttle bus but you need to reserve ahead of time!

Great place to enjoy the day, despite the lack of snow, the snow maker helps some of the fields for skiing. The snow park allow the small kids to enjoy funny time in winter.

A proper place to enjoy the snow. Whether you are skiing, snowboarding or just to play at the snow park, this is the place. The amenities are also family and kids friendly. I believe the place is well kept and parking should not be a problem.

The place was really lit! It was a safe haven for me! It felt surreal! 😊 Coming from a country where it's literally summer all year round 😂✌🏿, to see snow was always on top of my bucketlist ever since I was a kid! Thank you Karuizawa Snow Park and Resort for this great experience! 💙 . . . . . #snowexperience #snow2020 #wheninjapan #wandering #travel #travelwhileyoucan #skiingforthefirsttime 💙

The place is about 5 minutes from the station. It will cost you flat rate of JPY710 to get here (the cab driver didn’t charged us extra). It is convenient for people who want to enjoy Karuizawa with kids because of sled and tube ride. They have a walkalator to save your legs going back and forth (it’s cool!). Kids can also enjoy the little tiny house right after you climb with the walkalator. Bouncy snowman is also nice because the adults can get in as well to watch their kids. And there’s a nice kebab shop just outside the area and it tastes really good. Overall, I highly recommend this place for families with children.

The paradise for families with small children. We went there with my 16 months old to show her snow for the first time. It was the end of the season (March) so some of the snow was mushy but there was more than enough left to have fun with her. They have a “presi park” that’s just amazing for kids under 8, with many things you can do: sledge, tubbing, bouncy castle, many snow toys like outdoor slides, wheelbarrows, snow striders etc… Inside there’s also a play area for kids if you want to go to when they’re tired or cold. They have changing tables, high chairs and sell diapers. The cherry on the cake is that there are so many families with babies a few months old in carriers to pre-teens. Cries and snot aren’t look down on, it’s just expected as part of a family vacation. I really like that kids here are part of your day and it’s not a resort where you put them into daycare. Will definitely come back with the next kiddo

My kids very enjoyed the beautiful park and the cool weather.

Plenty of space and a fantastic playground for kids with lots of equipment. Perfect spot to spend 30–60 minutes letting the little ones run, climb, and play freely.

nice place for kids to play around. playground is two min walk away from car park and 1 min from toilet

A beautiful park not far from Karuizawa town. Car parking is available and the central play area is just 2 minutes walk from the parking lot. There is ample space around the play area for kids to run around and plenty of trees to have a picnic. The highlight of the park, however, is a small stream flowing through the back side of the park, with crystal clear cool waters even in the summer.

Very clean and modern park with a free dog run divided for small and big dogs.

Centrally located, well maintained park with free parking. Great playground for small kids. They have some equipment you rarely see elsewhere, such as netted swing that rotates.

Public playground in Karuizawa along a small stream. Fairly old facilities but well maintained. Washroom and children changing station available on site.

A nice rest stop with high quality cheese and dessert! They have a cafe with pizza and other meals. You can buy a lot of souvenirs or gift items here. A bit pricey but the place is very nice. The goat house is so cute! We just had the soft serve and strawberry dessert. Yummy!

Got the cheese soft serve and baked cheese cake here, after enjoying fondue at their restaurant. Neither were as cheesy as expected. Not bad, but not awesome either. They had 20% sale so overall good value.

Was here few days back. Tried their yogurt and ice-cream. Both were so delicious. It’s quality stuff.

We try the cheese cake and it taste more delicate than average, guess because of homemade cheese, pretty good for pass by dessert.

A delicious collection of cheeses and cheese cakes. They don't have cafe seating here but just a couple of benches outside the shop where you can sit and eat. They provide dry ice packing for carrying your cheese shopping home. Great service

Plenty of really delicious looking cheese based dessert that I would love to try, but unfortunately, no dine in allowed. Went for the cheese soft serve instead. At 380 yen, while not too expensive compared to other places, it lacks the rich flavour of cheese. There's benches in front of the shop that customer may use.

They sell dairy products, including cheeses, yogurts, cheesecakes, etc. They also sell some wines. Their yogurt drink tastes fantastic. Unlike those sold in supermarket, it tastes like some cheeses were added. Need to try your own.

What a nostalgic and serene experience! This was such a fun museum to visit - familiarity with the stories made the artwork accessible even to my husband whose Japanese is limited. Moreover, we discovered a new artist whose work we loved: Imai Ayano! And the grounds are beautifully kept. Just a lovely, lovely space worth a morning’s or afternoon’s visit!

(Translated by Google) The Musée Forest, which includes the Ertz Toy Museum, the Karuizawa Picture Book Museum, and the Picturesque Garden, was a really nice place with German wooden toys and a permanent exhibition of Peter Rabbit. We enjoyed looking at the cute toys and had a relaxing time strolling through the garden across the road. (Original) エルツおもちゃ博物館と軽井沢絵本の森美術館にピクチャレスクガーデンを含むムーゼの森は、ドイツの木工のおもちゃやピーターラビットの常設展示等があって、本当に良い所でした。可愛いおもちゃで見て楽しみ、そして、道路を挟んでガーデンを散策して癒される時間を過ごしました。

(Translated by Google) I went to Muse Forest on a Sunday in late June with my second son who is in a wheelchair. Karuizawa Picture Book Museum, Ertz Toy Museum, and Picturesque Garden are located on a large site, making it a wonderful spot full of greenery. Since it is a Heart Building facility, it is barrier-free and you can spend a relaxing time there, but it was a little difficult to go back and forth across the wide road. The vegetable curry at the pet-friendly cafe "Roue" was simple but delicious🍛 Recommended for those who want to spend a relaxing time in Karuizawa. (Original) ムーゼの森に6月下旬の日曜日に車椅子の次男と行きました。 軽井沢絵本の森美術館、エルツおもちゃ博物館、ピクチャレスクガーデンが広い敷地にある緑あふれる素敵なスポットです。 ハートビル法施設なので、バリアフリーでゆっくり過ごせますが、広い道路を挟んで行き来するのが、少し大変でした。 ペット可のカフェ「ルーエ」の野菜カレーはシンプルですが、美味しかったです🍛 軽井沢でのんびり過ごしたい方には、おススメです。

(Translated by Google) I don't think it's worth going there for sightseeing. When I looked at the website, it said that it would stimulate the intellectual curiosity of adults, and since I like picture books and stories, I was really looking forward to seeing how it would be put together, and I had high expectations. However, the original drawings and explanations were displayed in the exhibition area, and photography was prohibited. When I went to the Peter Rabbit exhibition hall, there were bookshelves and many books. I thought that the world of Peter Rabbit, or that world, was being expressed through models or something. The Erz Toy Museum has a feeling that models are placed there. There are many exhibits, so both have a unique smell. I wonder if it's a place that noble and cultured people can understand. For me, 1,500 yen was too expensive. I regret that I should have understood the purpose better and made it a tourist destination. To be honest, I would give it 1 star, but it's a museum and not a theme park. I gave it 2 stars because I just didn't have the ability to research it and I was most at fault for not understanding the purpose. Parking is free. (Original) 観光でここを目的にして行くほどではないかな という感じです ホームページ見たら、大人の知的好奇心を〜とか書いてましたし絵本や物語が好きだったので、その類の工夫が凝らされているのかととっても楽しみにしていて、すごく期待してました。 ですが、展示場所では原画？や説明文を掲示していて、撮影禁止です ピーターラビットの展示館に行くと本棚があり本がたくさんありました。 てっきりピーターラビットの世界観というかその世界を模型とかで表してるのかなと勝手に思ってて。。 エルツのおもちゃ美術館は模型が置かれている感じです 展示が多いので、どちらも独特の臭いがします 高貴で教養のある方々が理解できる場所なのかな 私にはこれで1,500円は高すぎました 趣旨をもっと理解して観光の目的地にすべきだったと反省しました。 本音は星1なのですが、美術館だしテーマパークではないし。 自分の調べる力がなかっただけなのと趣旨を理解してなかったことが1番悪いので星2にしてます 駐車場は無料です。

(Translated by Google) Across the road are the Picture Book Forest Art Museum and the Toy Museum. Both seem to be facilities aimed at children, but the collections are mostly fairy tales for story time, foreign picture books, and traditional crafts, so there aren't many things that young children will enjoy. (Original) 道路を挟んで絵本の森美術館とおもちゃ博物館があります。どちらも子供向けの施設のようですが、収蔵物は読み聞かせで使うような童話や海外の絵本、伝統工芸品がほとんどで、小さな子供が喜ぶようなものはあまりありません。

(Translated by Google) There is a picture book museum and a toy museum. (Original) 絵本の美術館とおもちゃ博物館があるよ。

(Translated by Google) This forest includes the Erz Toy Museum, the Karuizawa Picture Book Museum, and shops. It is quite large, and there are museums, exhibition halls, picturesque gardens, a library, and more. I think you can see seasonal plants in the vast area. (Original) エルツおもちゃ博物館と軽井沢絵本の森美術館とショップなどの森です。かなり広く、博物館や、展示館やピクチャレスク、ガーデン、図書館などもあります。結構広く季節ごとの植物がみれると思います。

A bit hit or miss. There’s been times I’ve gone on weekends when there’s a dozen other skaters, but other times there’s been 40+. Typically there’s just one 1.5 hour slot that it is open to the public. I wish that’d be expanded. Quite affordable though.

They allow WAY too many good skaters on the ice at one time. Normally the rink gets carved up into ends for jumping and one end for spinning. Also, if you don't spin counter-clockwise look out, because most people will not pay attention to that important fact.

The ice is groomed well, there are proper locker rooms available. The seating area is very cold

The place is way too crowded. The ice is soft, it's melted, too split by skating activity and dips down in the middle.

(Translated by Google) Although it is old, the changing rooms are clean and I was able to skate without any problems. Takahiko Kozuka's Kozuka Academy training camp is also held here. (Original) 老朽化はしてますが、更衣室もキレイで問題なく滑れました。 小塚崇彦さんの小塚アカデミーの合宿もここで開かれてますね。

(Translated by Google) My kids wanted to try skating, so we went to Arena Skating Rink, which can be enjoyed even in the summer. The kids were wearing short sleeves and shorts, but they didn't get cold and had a great time skating. The staff were also very kind. If you've included skating in your plan, gloves cost 300 yen each, so it's a good idea to bring a hat and gloves. Skating times are set, so if you inquire in advance you can skate without waiting. (Original) 子供がスケートをやってみたいというので、夏でも楽しめるアリーナスケート場へ来ました。 子供達は半袖半ズボンでしたが、寒がる事もなく楽しく滑っていました。係の方も親切です。 前もってスケートがプランに入っていたら、手袋が一枚300円なので帽子と手袋は持参すると良いと思います。滑る時間が決まっているので、事前に問い合わせると待ち時間なく滑れます。

(Translated by Google) The receptionists were friendly and helpful, and although the facility is old, it was well-kept and clean. However, the kids practicing ice hockey can be very dangerous. They run around freely with no regard for rules. Please be very careful if you go to play there. The kids are fully protected in protective gear, but you could still get seriously injured. (Original) 受付の方達はにこやかで親切ですし、 古い施設ではありますが、掃除が行き届いていてきれいでした。 ただ、アイスホッケーの練習をしている子どもたちがとにかく危ない。 ルール無用で縦横無尽に走り回っています。 遊びに行かれる際は、本当に十分ご注意ください。 本人たちは防具で完全防備ですが こちらは大怪我してしまいます。

(Translated by Google) Learn about the past and present of Karuizawa and its origins as a summer resort Since photography is not allowed inside the museum, I took photos of the beautiful surrounding nature. The history of Oiwake-juku, its decline, its reflection as a summer resort, and the vivid Port Jacoulet. Old Karuizawa, Shin Karuizawa, and Hoshino areas are good, but this one is also recommended. The only drawback is that it is not barrier-free due to the building and land (^_^;) The former Konoe Fumimaro Villa is also wonderful. Trying to find a fake Western style place (^-^) If you have time, why not think back to the past (^-^) (Original) 軽井沢の今昔、避暑地としての発祥を知る 館内は撮影NGなので、素敵な周りの自然を撮影しました。 追分宿の歴史、衰退、そして避暑地としての反映、そして鮮やかなポールジャクレー。 旧軽井沢も新軽井沢も星野エリアも良いですが、こちらもオススメ。 建物や土地の都合でバリアフリーではないのが玉に瑕(^_^;) 旧近衛文麿別荘も素敵です。偽洋風な所を探してみたり(^-^) お時間があれば、昔に思いを馳せてみては(^-^)

(Translated by Google) I went there on a weekday. You can learn about the history of Karuizawa. The Western-style building is small, but the admission fee was included. You can also enjoy forest bathing on the premises, so it's a good place to relax. (Original) 平日に利用しました。 軽井沢の歴史を学ぶことが出来ます。資料次第は小さな作りですが、洋館の入場料も含まれていました。敷地内で森林浴も出来るのでのんびりするには良いと思います。

(Translated by Google) This is the perfect museum to learn about Karuizawa's history, geography, and folklore. In addition to exhibits ranging from ancient times to the present, there is also a section displaying stuffed animals and information on Mount Asama. Admission is 400 yen. (Original) 軽井沢の歴史や地理、民俗を知るためにはうってつけの資料館です。 古代から現代までの展示のほか、動物の剥製や浅間山に関するコーナーもあります。 入館料400円です。

(Translated by Google) I visited on April 3rd. It seems that it has reopened in April. I went from the former Konoe Fumimaro Villa, so I left my car parked at the Riyama Park parking lot and walked from the villa along the waterway behind the Amemiya Memorial Museum. I feel like I don't have to turn the car every time. Exhibits include Karuizawa folklore, the Shinetsu Line between Yokogawa and Karuizawa, and an introduction to the buildings in Karuizawa. (Original) 4月3日に訪問しました。4月に入って再開したようです。旧近衛文麿別荘から行ったので、車は離山公園駐車場に停めたまま、別荘から水路沿いに雨宮記念館の裏を通ってすぐです。いちいち車を回す必要はないという感じです。展示は軽井沢の民俗、信越線横川ー軽井沢間、軽井沢にある建築物の紹介などです。

(Translated by Google) After seeing the former Konoe Fumimaro Villa, I visited this place. I learned about the old ways. In the past, people used to walk along the mountain ridge. Currently, you can enter Karuizawa via the Shinkansen tunnel. Its history as a villa area began in the Meiji era. I thought that if you want to learn about a region, you should definitely visit the local historical and ethnic museum. The Karuizawa Town Historical and Ethnographic Museum began in 1963 when the town purchased the villa of former Minister of Finance Katsuta Kasuke, and began as the Karuizawa Town Museum, which stores and displays artifacts excavated from ruins in the town and various ethnic materials. It seems like it is. The current location was newly established in 1980, and the name was changed to "Karuizawa Town History and Folklore Museum" in 2000. (Original) 旧近衛文麿別荘を観てから、こちらを訪問。 旧道の勉強になりました。 昔は山の尾根伝いに歩いていたんですね。 今は、新幹線のトンネルで軽井沢に入れますが。 明治になってから別荘地としての歴史が始まっています。 地域の事を勉強するには、やっぱりその土地の歴史民族資料館は、訪れるべきだと思いました。 ここ軽井沢町歴史民族資料館は、昭和38（1963）年、元大蔵大臣勝田主計の別荘を町が買いとり、町内の遺跡出土品や各種民族資料などを収蔵・展示する「軽井沢町資料館」として始まったそうです。 現在の場所は、昭和55（1980）年に新設され、平成12（2000）年より「軽井沢町歴史民族資料館」に名称変更されたそうです。

(Translated by Google) You can learn about the history of Karuizawa. The atmosphere is casual. It is okay to bring children. There is also a parking lot. You can get to know the deep side of Karuizawa! Recommended. (Original) 軽井沢の歴史を知ることができます。 カジュアルな雰囲気です。お子様連れも大丈夫です。 駐車場もあります。 ディープな軽井沢を知ることができますよ！オススメです。

(Translated by Google) It introduces the history of Nakasendo and the area around Karuizawa, and I think you'll be able to enjoy it more deeply if you check it out when you go to Karuizawa. The surrounding area has beautiful autumn leaves. (Original) 中山道や軽井沢周辺の歴史が紹介されており、軽井沢に行く際に見ておくとより深く味わえると思います。周辺は紅葉が綺麗です。