An in-depth look at the charms of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture! Sightseeing Spots and Recommended Activities
What is Karuizawa?
Popular Summer Resorts and Tourist Attractions in Nagano Prefecture
Karuizawa in Nagano Prefecture is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the four seasons and the sophisticated atmosphere of a resort.
In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive overview of must-see spots, outdoor activities, and the best ways to enjoy dining and shopping while sightseeing in Karuizawa.
It is particularly famous as a summer retreat and is popular with many tourists as a place where they can enjoy a cool escape even during the hottest part of summer. With its historic buildings, trendy cafes, and outdoor activities, it offers something for people of all ages to enjoy.
In addition to its natural environment, Karuizawa’s appeal lies in the wide variety of activities it offers, including shopping, dining, hot springs, and art. Whether you’re on a day trip or a longer stay, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
If you're looking for activities that focus on physical play,10 Recommended Activities in KaruizawaPlease also check this out. For those who want to compare tourist destinations throughout Nagano Prefecture,25 Recommended Tourist Attractions in Nagano Prefectureis recommended.
Ranking in Popular Plans in Nagano
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Places to visit in Karuizawa
Karuizawa is a wonderful tourist destination that combines nature and culture. Here are some particularly recommended sightseeing spots.
Take a short trip from Karuizawa to experience this!
▼Click here for recommended itineraries around Karuizawa▼
1. Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
"Old Karuizawa Ginza Street" is considered the heart of tourism in Karuizawa.
Lined with fashionable cafes and stores, visitors can enjoy shopping and dining while strolling around.
There are many restaurants and cafes, and you can also find local specialties and Karuizawa-branded items.
This street, with its easy-to-walk paths and beautiful streetscape, lets you experience the unique atmosphere of Karuizawa.
2. Karuizawa Highland Church
Karuizawa Highland Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Karuizawa, especially for its simple and beautiful design.
This church traces its origins to the “Art and Free Education Seminar” held in Taisho 10 (1921), which brought together figures such as Hakushu Kitahara and Toson Shimazaki, and is located in the woods of the Hoshino area. It is also famous as a wedding venue, where visitors can enjoy a beautiful space that harmonizes with nature in a tranquil atmosphere. The gardens surrounding the church are also beautiful, making it the perfect spot for a stroll.
3. shiraito waterfall
One cannot miss Shiraito Falls as a place to enjoy the natural beauty of Karuizawa.
There are numerous waterfalls in the vicinity of Karuizawa, of which Shiraito Falls is particularly famous for its beautiful waterfalls and the surrounding greenery.
There is a walking trail around the waterfall where you can enjoy the scenery as it changes with the seasons. If you’d like to see other famous waterfalls in Nagano Prefecture,Top 10 Waterfalls in Nagano PrefecturePlease also refer to this.
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a must for shopping enthusiasts.
Located right outside the south exit of Karuizawa Station, this large outlet mall features a wide selection of domestic and international brands.
Visitors can shop in the natural surroundings unique to Karuizawa, where a variety of apparel and sundries are available.
The expansive grounds are also home to a wide variety of restaurants and cafes where visitors can relax and spend time.
5. The Former Mikasa Hotel
The former Mikasa Hotel is a wooden, Western-style hotel built during the Meiji era and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The museum was closed for an extended period due to preservation and restoration work, but tours of the museum resumed in October 2025, and a new café and museum shop have also opened.
Since opening hours and closed days vary depending on the season, it’s a good idea to check the official information before you visit.
Fun in Karuizawa
Outdoor Activities
Karuizawa is a place blessed with nature, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Here are some activities for families and friends to enjoy together.
1. hiking and trekking
There are hiking courses and trekking routes around Karuizawa that can be enjoyed by both beginners and advanced hikers.
In particular, there are trails where you can experience nature up close, such as those at the foot of Mount Asama and at the “Karuizawa Wild Bird Forest” in the Hoshino area.
Since you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery as you walk, you’ll be able to experience the charm of Karuizawa throughout the four seasons. If you’d like to climb Mount Asama,Beginner-Friendly Routes and Difficulty Levels for Climbing Mount AsamaPlease take a look at it.
Recommended for beginners!
Click here for popular hiking plans in Nagano
2. cycling
Cycling is another popular activity in Karuizawa.
The central area of Karuizawa has many relatively gentle roads, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely bike ride.
By renting a bike, you can easily enjoy an active outing while exploring the beautiful cityscapes and natural scenery by bike. Cycling routes in Nagano Prefecture includeCycling Routes with Stunning Views in NaganoIt's covered in detail there.
▼Click here for tours in Nagano where you can enjoy cycling.
▼ Learn more about our cycling tours
▼ Learn more about electrically power assisted bicycles
3. golf
Karuizawa is also a great spot for golf enthusiasts.
The area is dotted with prestigious golf courses, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Karuizawa while playing golf.
The location overlooking Mount Asama and the cool climate even in summer make it the perfect setting for golf.
Recommended Dining and Shopping in Karuizawa
Karuizawa offers a wealth of enjoyment not only as a tourist destination, but also in dining and shopping.
1. recommended cafes in Karuizawa
Karuizawa is dotted with stylish cafes.
There are many cafes where you can enjoy desserts and dishes made with locally sourced ingredients; in particular, those serving dishes made with highland vegetables and coffee roasted in Karuizawa are especially popular.
If you're having trouble deciding where to eat lunch,15 Recommended Lunch Spots and Cafes in KaruizawaPlease take a look at this for reference.
2. enjoy local products
Karuizawa offers a wide variety of local specialties unique to the area, such as fresh highland vegetables, fruits, and homemade jams.
You can buy them at shops and farmers' markets in tourist areas, so they make great souvenirs. If you're looking to buy local vegetables and fruits while out for a drive,Ranking of Recommended Roadside Stations in Nagano PrefectureIf you'd like to learn about Nagano's local specialties, such as Shinshu soba and oyaki,Nagano's Famous Dishes and Local CuisinePlease check this out as well.
summary
Karuizawa offers a rich natural environment, historic buildings, beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and gourmet and shopping opportunities.
Take a break from your daily routine, relax, and experience the unique charm of Karuizawa.
It’s worth visiting throughout the four seasons—as a cool summer retreat in the summer, for the fall foliage in the fall, and for the snowy scenery in the winter.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
