The perfect guide of Karuizawa

Karuizawa is a charming resort town in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Japan, known for its stunning natural landscapes, comfortable climate, and huge shopping center called Mitsui Outlet.

Popular among both local and international visitors, Karuizawa offers a perfect escape from the bustling cities with its peaceful atmosphere, outdoor activities, luxurious shopping, and gourmet dining. Karuizawa is an ideal destination for year-round relaxation and adventure.

I am going to tell you about the way to get there from Shinjuku Station(Tokyo) and how you enjoy there.

If you would like to know the best transportation in Japan, Please visit this site.

How to get to Karuizawa

There are various options to get there. you would rather rent a car from Tokyo so that you can enjoy the whole area of Karuizawa.

However, there are the buses that you can go around Karuizawa.

Using Train

This is the fastest way to get to there. Many people consider using the Shinkansen when they want to visit Kyoto or Osaka from Tokyo. But you can access there to use Shinkansen as well.

The price of the ticket is around ¥6000 and this price is not expensive compared to the way to Kyoto and Osaka by Shinkanse and you can access there for an hour.

If you would like to know how to use Shinkansen by cheapest way, please visit this link.

Using highway bus

Using highway buses is undoubtedly one of the most affordable ways to travel in Japan. With buses departing from various locations, they are also relatively easy to access. So, be sure to check out highway bus options for your next trip!

For detailed booking instructions, please refer to this article!

Rent a car

Renting a car in Karuizawa is a fantastic way to explore the region at your own pace, offering flexibility and freedom to discover the town’s hidden gems.

With a car, you can easily visit popular attractions such as the stunning Shiraito Falls, the scenic Usui Pass, and the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, while also venturing into lesser-known areas for a more personalized experience.

However, this option is more expensive than the other options because you need to pay the fare to use the highway road besides the fee of renting a car
And you can access Japanese service spots on the highway road despite of expensive fare to use highway road.

If you would like to rent a car, explore here.

Top Tourist Attractions in Karuizawa

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

This outlet mall is impressively large and located right in front of Karuizawa Station. Blending seamlessly with nature, it’s a family-friendly spot where you can shop while enjoying time with pets and kids, making it popular with families.

It features a wide range of brands, from Ralph Lauren and H&M to high-end names like GUCCI and SAINT LAURENT. If you’d like to see the full list of brands, please check the official website linked here.

Additionally, many stores in this outlet shopping plaza offer TAX-Free shopping, so be sure to take advantage of this when you visit!

The location also features a large open area where children can have fun and play, making it a great destination for families. Don’t forget to check it out during your visit!

Shiraito Falls

A waterfall, with delicate streams of water flowing like “white threads,” surrounded by lush greenery.

Unlike many waterfalls that have a single powerful stream, Shiraito Falls is known for its unique appearance, where countless tiny streams emerge from the rock, creating a curtain of delicate water that is mesmerizing to watch.

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza is a lovely shopping street in the middle of Karuizawa with old shops and new boutiques.

This popular area is known for its retro and modern mix where you can find local crafts, high end fashion and delicious treats all in one walk. Visitors love to try the famous Karuizawa jams, freshly baked pastries and handmade souvenirs, so it’s a great place to experience both traditional and modern Karuizawa. It’s especially lively on weekends and holidays.

Harunire Terrace

Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a luxurious resort in the serene forests, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy a variety of experiences, including soothing hot springs, forest walks, and gourmet dining that emphasizes local ingredients.

Even though you are not supposed to stay at a hotel, you can enjoy their nature, some activities, and facilities.

If you would like to book around this area, please visit this link.

Tonbono Yu

Tombonoyu is a day-use hot spring supervised by Hoshino Resorts, featuring natural hot spring water that flows directly from the source.

You can enjoy various seasonal baths, like the Japanese custom of adding yuzu citrus to the water in winter to warm up. If you’re concerned about tattoos, don’t worry—guests with tattoos can use special tattoo stickers provided by the hot spring to enjoy their soak. The admission fee for adults is just 1,350 yen, so be sure to relax and unwind from your travels at this wonderful hot spring!

Reserve Hotel in Karuizawa