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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

My kid loves the burger, but i find the bun is a bit too dry. Clam chowder soup is okay (my kid loves it too), and caesar salad is very fresh, recommended.

Kuaaina's burgers are very tasty, the place is quite big but they are in partnership with Pizza-la, offering a very good variety of burgers, pizzas and paella.

Great tasting burger, pancakes and fries. Clean and quiet place. Staff very friendly.

Been to many Kua Aina shops in Japan but this was by far the most disappointing. The hamburger patty for my selection was overcook. The turkey in the turkey sandwich was very salty. The potatoes included in the set seemed like it was about half the volume that I got in other shops in the Tokyo area. The drink bar included un the set price had a pretty good selection. There is a lot of seating with each table having its own disinfectant.

I had heard Kua before and it’s as known as Obama’s favorite burgers in Hawaii. But the patty was a little dry and fries were served cold. I think the waiters were too busy to take care of all the customers. But self-service for water and ketchup is ok. I can do it myself faster.

Delicious burgers at this Hawaiian themed restaurant. Burgers range from around 1100 to 1500 yen. Sets come with small fries and drink. I had the BBQ avocado burger. It's a popular restaurant so there could be some wait time. Expect to wait 15 to 20 minutes for your order.

Overall good quality food - tasted very fresh and delicious! My only complaints are that my burger patty was overcooked/made the sandwich kinda dry.

came across this and decided to try it. we loved it! everything is perfect, we ordered the hamburg set and we devoured everything including all the side dishes & miso soup! with amazing sake to top it off, will definitely come back again if we visit karuizawa 😊😊

Although Karuizawa is a small town, you can bring groups of 10-20 people to dine in Suju Masayuki (unlike other non-chain restaurants). The restaurant specializes in miso and other cooking ingredients in traditional method for generations, so you really need to try their Gindara Miso (their Salmon miso is so-so for me), Beef Steak, Cold Tofu, and Japanese-style Sweet and Sour Pork! Rice also comes in few options - try their Ochazuke if you haven’t try it before. Even their Miso Soup is special 😍! Not just tofu and seaweed, they just put many things in the soup but it blends really well. Definitely will come again.

Suju Masayuki is an outstanding restaurant in Karuizawa that delivers authentic, traditional Japanese cuisine with deep historical roots. The brand’s 200-year legacy is reflected in every dish, showcasing refined craftsmanship and balance of flavours. What makes Suju truly special is its mastery of vinegar-based cooking — a hallmark of its culinary philosophy. The dishes are perfectly seasoned to enhance umami without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients. Every bite feels like a taste of Japan’s culinary heritage, served with care and precision. We were lucky to get a table for lunch without waiting, and the experience was nothing short of memorable. The ambience is serene, the presentation elegant, and the service attentive. It’s a wonderful stop for anyone visiting Karuizawa who appreciates depth, history, and genuine Japanese flavours. A timeless dining experience worth returning for.

A must-come when you’re in Karuizawa! The miso marinated chicken thigh has such a unique texture and its flavour is just right to pair with their copper kettle cooked rice! I love toro toro (grated yam in the red bowl) and theirs was specially flavoured! The rice in bonito is definitely comfort food for Spring time. Great service and ambience!

We went on friday night for dinner close to 7pm. There were plenty of seats available. The shinshu beef and sake lees marinated pork was delicious. Overall very high cost performance. We enjoyed the food and will come again when we visit Karuizawa.

Finally got to try the original Suju outlet - which did not disappoint indeed. The menu features plenty of local vegetables and local specialty. The sweet and sour pork is amazing.

The food was delicious in this upscale restaurant in the heart of Old Karuizawa. The 3 bean appetizer, and the raw vegetables with miso dip appetizer were yummy and plenty for 6 of us. Then came our delicious meals of sweet and sour pork with vegetables, beef stew, mackerel fish, miso soup and rice set, and pork shoulder. Everyone was happy with their delicious dinner choices. To top it off we shared amazing Japanese roasted tea crème brûlée. The waitress brought small bowls and spoons so we could all have a little taste. It was excellent fast service in a sophisticated cozy atmosphere. Be sure to make a reservation because it’s popular and fills up quickly. English menu available upon request.

The wagu beef is as pretty good. The location close and convenient to the station and shopping outlet. Pricing is not bad in comparison to wagu in the city(tokyo). Overall experience is surprisingly decent considering its a outlet restaurant and there ain’t many to choose from around the area.

Must patron if you like beef. We tried out the 7 kinds of beef and grilled with medium fire. Juicy and tender. Go well with the lettuce. We preferred sauce to salt. Meanwhile, the wagyu does not fetch the difference of its price. We also ordered the bibimbap without beef, instead of plain rice. Crispy and delicious, though portion is a bit small. We revisited the restaurant 3 days later as it is the best beef restaurant in the proximity. Seats filled up quickly after 6. come early to avoid long waiting time.

Decent grilled aged meat restaurant at a very convenient location. Less than 5 minutes from the station and the shopping plaza. Prices are on the higher end but that’s expected at Karuizawa. Set lunch provide good value and then offer a range of a la Carte cuts. Prices reflect the quality.

3rd time eat here but first time for dinner other two times visited For lunch. Great meat and lunch set is better deal And value.

Value for money for aged Japanese beef. Yet, comparing it with eat-all-you-can in other restaurant with much wider choices of food, I would prefer the latter.

I have been there for Lunch. Beef Yakiniku Lunch was really awesome. Beef was so juicy and delicious.Service great and restaurant was clean.One of my favorite Restaurant in Karuizawa

Love the good here and service is great. Super good beef.

The atmosphere gives a luxury feeling. Foods are good with decent value and amount.

Very solid fast food. The hambagu stew is solid and goes so well with rice. You can see them make it to order.

We liked everything we ordered here. Even the kids plate is delicious. It even comes with dessert. The quality of food here is really good. This restaurant‘s food quality is much better than the other restaurants’ in this area. I wish they’d also open a store in Tokyo.

We had a dinner at this place after shopping at the outlet stores. Dishes were tasty though they were a bit pricey - wine selection was limited.

We ordered seafood and grill pork sets plus 2 beers. Food is fresh and tasted good. It will be perfect if there is options for meat size in sea food set. The beer is awesome! Overall, it is quite pleasing and satisfying experience.

What a fantastic environment and food they have. Deliciously good and nice service. Definitely worth a visit.

Food is delicious!