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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Karuizawa.
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Karuizawa blooms like a colorful garden, offering a plethora of sights and activities for the discerning adventurer.
From cascading waterfalls to tranquil hikes, and vibrant shopping districts to serene hot springs, the town provides a sensory feast for all ages.
Join us on a journey of discovery and allow Karuizawa to captivate your soul with its natural beauty and cultural charm.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Karuizawa:
1. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
A premier outlet shopping mall located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Shop for luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Coach along with Japanese labels such as Beams and Journal Standard. The mall also features restaurants, cafes, and a food court.
Don’t miss: The Karuizawa Green Market, which features locally grown produce and delicacies from the region. The shopping plaza also has a playground and outdoor space for kids.
Insider travel tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy more relaxed shopping experience. The mall provides a shuttle service to and from Karuizawa Station.
Make sure to check the website for special events and discounts offered throughout the year.
2. Shiraito Falls
A picturesque waterfall located in Karuizawa, a popular mountain resort town in Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning view of the Shiraito Falls, which stands at a height of 70 meters and the water falling over the rocks looks like a white silk of threads.
Visitors can also take a leisurely walk around the area or have a picnic with friends and family.
Don’t miss: The beautiful contrast of the waterfall and the surrounding lush greenery makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the autumn season to see the beautiful fall foliage or during the winter season to see the waterfall frozen over.
It’s best to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven in some areas. Also, bring a jacket or umbrella as the area can get quite misty.
3. Kumoba Pond
Kumoba Pond is a picturesque man-made lake located in the Japanese mountain resort town of Karuizawa.
What to see or do: The crystal clear water of the pond reflects the surrounding trees and sky, creating a serene and beautiful scene that is perfect for a tranquil walk.
Visitors can also rent rowboats to explore the pond from another perspective.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the “floating” islands in the middle of the pond, which are actually clumps of moss that have grown on top of rocks.
Insider travel tips: Visit in autumn to see the breathtaking palette of fall colors or in winter when the pond freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice skating.
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons.
4. Karuizawa Hoshino Area
The Karuizawa Hoshino Area is a luxurious resort area located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It is owned and operated by the Hoshino Resorts company.
What to see or do: – Stay in one of the many luxurious accommodations, ranging from traditional Japanese inns to modern Western-style hotels.
Don’t miss: – The Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu, a beautiful hot spring bathhouse with both indoor and outdoor baths.
Insider travel tips: – Time your visit according to the season. Karuizawa is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color.
5. Usui Pass Observation Platform
Usui Pass Observation Platform is a popular sightseeing spot located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The observation platform offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Kanto Plain and Mt.
Asama, an active volcano.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take photos of the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a peaceful moment in nature.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the Usui Pass Observation Platform is during autumn when the leaves change color.
6. Karuizawa Museum of History and Folklore
The Karuizawa Museum of History and Folklore is a cultural facility in Karuizawa, Japan that promotes the preservation and study of the history and folklore of the town.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about the town’s history, culture, and folklore through various displays, including interactive exhibits, dioramas, and artifacts.
Don’t miss: One of the must-see exhibits is the “Old Karuizawa” display, which showcases the town’s transformation from a small mountain village to a popular resort town.
Visitors can also see traditional folk crafts and tools, as well as learn about the local flora and fauna in the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit around the museum’s schedule of events and workshops, which include calligraphy, pottery-making, and traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.
7. Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street
A charming shopping street located in the Kyu-Karuizawa area of Nagano, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll along the street and admire the traditional architecture of the shops and boutiques. Browse through the unique selection of souvenirs, crafts, and local goods, including handmade ceramics, textiles, and woodwork.
The street is also known for its excellent restaurants and cafes, serving up delicious local specialties and international cuisine.
Don’t miss: The many stylish and trendy fashion boutiques, offering a mix of local and international designer labels. The street also features a number of art galleries and museums, showcasing both contemporary and traditional Japanese art.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the fall to see the stunning autumn foliage in the surrounding area. The shopping street can get quite crowded on weekends, so try to plan your visit during the week if possible.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the street is quite long and filled with many interesting shops to explore.
8. Onioshidashi Volcanic Park
Onioshidashi Volcanic Park is a popular natural park located in the town of Karuizawa, Japan. The park is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and volcanic activities.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a scenic walk along the park’s well-marked trails to see the stunning views of Mt. Asama, one of the most active volcanoes in Japan.
The park features several unique attractions, including hot springs, mud pools, a sulfuric river, and a volcanic steam vent area.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Kurofugami Observation Deck offers an opportunity to witness the stunning panoramic views of the park and its surroundings.
The deck is situated 1,107 meters above sea level, providing visitors with a fascinating perspective of the natural scenery.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the park is during the autumn season, when the leaves turn into striking shades of orange and red.
9. Kumanokotai Shrine
Kumanokotai Shrine is a small Shinto shrine located in Karuizawa, Japan, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful torii gate.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the forest to reach the shrine, admiring the towering trees along the way.
The shrine’s main hall is adorned with intricate carvings and colorful decorations, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and design.
Don’t miss: The torii gate that welcomes visitors to Kumanokotai Shrine is made of a single piece of wood, an impressive feat of craftsmanship that is sure to impress.
Don’t forget to toss a coin into the offertory box and offer a prayer to the deity enshrined here.
Insider travel tips: Visiting Kumanokotai Shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon will offer a more peaceful and less crowded experience.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the forest trail leading to the shrine. Also, explore the surrounding area of Karuizawa, which is known for its natural beauty and numerous hot springs.
10. Karuizawa Stone Church
The Karuizawa Stone Church is a strikingly beautiful Christian church located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The church’s architecture and design are the main attraction, with its unique combination of Western and Japanese styles. The stone walls and wooden beams coexist in harmonious union, making it one of the most beautiful buildings in Karuizawa.
Visitors can attend a Sunday service or simply appreciate the view from the outside.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a walk around the church’s gardens to fully appreciate the peace and tranquility of the surroundings.
If you’re lucky, you may even see the church covered in snow during the winter months, which adds to its charm.
Insider travel tips: The church can get quite busy during peak tourist times, so it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Also, if you have the time, take a stroll in the nearby woods to discover other beautiful and less touristy churches and chapels that are scattered around the area.
11. Karuizawa Taliesin
Karuizawa Taliesin is a beautiful architectural complex in Karuizawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning design of the buildings and enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings. The complex features several museums, galleries, and shops showcasing Japanese art, crafts, and design.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the intricate architecture of Karuizawa Taliesin, which was designed by renowned Japanese architect, Hiroshi Nakamura.
Make sure to wander through the picturesque gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer, remember to bring extra layers as the temperature in Karuizawa can drop significantly in the evenings.
It’s also a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues on busy days.
If you’re a fan of Japanese art and culture, consider taking a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the complex.
12. Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel
The Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel is a picturesque church located in the woods of Karuizawa, Japan.
It was built in 1988 by the famous architect, Tadao Ando, in memory of the missionary James Curtis Hepburn and his wife, Caroline Hepburn, who brought Christianity to Japan.
What to see or do: The chapel’s serene environment features a simple and elegantly designed exterior that is surrounded by trees and a pond that enhances the tranquil surroundings.
Inside, the chapel is minimalist with wooden pews and a large glass wall at the altar that reflects natural light, creating a stunning and unique visual effect.
Don’t miss: Although there are no regular services held at the chapel, occasional concerts and weddings do take place.
While visiting the chapel, be sure to take a walk around the beautifully manicured grounds, including the Japanese garden that creates a calming balance with the chapel’s modern architecture.
Insider travel tips: The chapel is located near several other tourist attractions in Karuizawa, including the old Mikasa Hotel and the Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza shopping district.
During the winter months, the chapel and its surroundings are covered in a blanket of snow, creating a winter wonderland perfect for photo opportunities.
Admission is free, but the chapel is closed on Wednesdays.
13. Karuizawa Kogen Church
Karuizawa Kogen Church is a stunningly beautiful Christian church.
What to see or do: Visit this picturesque and peaceful church surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens and a serene forest. The building’s architecture is an interesting combination of Japanese and Western style.
Don’t miss: Witnessing the panoramic view of the beautiful natural surroundings of Karuizawa from the church’s balcony.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to get the best chance to enjoy the serene atmosphere. Take a walk in the nearby forest for a peaceful retreat.
Taking photos is forbidden inside the church, but you can capture the beauty of the surrounding gardens to your heart’s content.
14. Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
A nature preserve and bird sanctuary located in the town of Karuizawa, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful forested grounds while observing a diverse variety of native and migratory birds. Experience the tranquil surroundings and the serene sounds of nature.
Discover over 120 species of birds in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss: The bird observation deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a prime vantage point for birdwatching. Additionally, the nearby Kusatsu-Shirane volcano offers a picturesque backdrop to the sanctuary.
Insider travel tips: – Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the breathtaking views and diverse birdlife.
15. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in Karuizawa, Japan, just a few hours from Tokyo. It offers a variety of ski runs for skiers of all levels, as well as other winter activities.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: – Weekdays are the best days to avoid the crowd as the resort can get extremely packed on weekends.