Trip Moments Recommendations
Karuizawa: Where Nature Meets Luxury - A Traveler's Oasis
#Karuizawa Nestled in the foothills of Japan's majestic mountains, Karuizawa is a tranquil retreat that seamlessly blends natural beauty with upscale amenities. My journey to this charming town was nothing short of enchanting, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The moment I arrived, I was greeted by lush forests, pristine lakes, and refreshing mountain air. Karuizawa's serene ambiance provided the ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether strolling through the vibrant foliage of Kumoba Pond or cycling along the tranquil paths of Usui Pass, every moment felt like a breath of fresh air for the soul.
But Karuizawa isn't just a haven for nature lovers; it's also a paradise for shoppers and food enthusiasts alike. The town boasts a plethora of boutiques, galleries, and gourmet restaurants, offering the perfect blend of luxury and local charm. From indulging in delectable French pastries at the iconic Harunire Terrace to perusing the artisanal crafts at Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Dori, there's something to delight every palate and preference.
For travelers seeking the ultimate relaxation, Karuizawa's hot springs are a must-visit. Soaking in the therapeutic waters surrounded by breathtaking scenery was a truly rejuvenating experience, melting away all traces of stress and tension.
To make the most of your Karuizawa adventure, here are some tips to consider:
1. **Plan a Seasonal Visit**: Experience the beauty of Karuizawa in every season, from vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to fiery foliage in autumn.
2. **Explore On Foot or Bike**: Take advantage of Karuizawa's extensive network of walking and cycling paths to immerse yourself in nature's embrace.
3. **Indulge in Local Cuisine**: Don't miss the opportunity to savor Karuizawa's culinary delights, from farm-fresh produce to gourmet French cuisine.
4. **Unwind in Hot Springs**: Treat yourself to a soothing soak in one of Karuizawa's natural hot springs for the ultimate relaxation.
5. **Discover Hidden Gems**: Venture off the beaten path to uncover Karuizawa's hidden treasures, from tranquil temples to charming cafés tucked away in the woods.
Karuizawa isn't just a destination; it's an oasis of tranquility and luxury waiting to be explored. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and embark on a journey of discovery in this enchanting corner of Japan.
🇯🇵𝑲𝒂𝒓𝒖𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒘𝒂 𝒊𝒏 𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒎𝒏 🍂
#TravelJapan 🍁🍁 During the autumn foliage season 🍁🍁
🇯🇵 𝑲𝒂𝒓𝒖𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒘𝒂 𝒊𝒏 𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒎𝒏 🍂
Another slow-life city, a resort city in Japan. It's a city that I really like. It's a city that takes about 1 hour to get to by Shinkansen from Tokyo. If you have one day, you can visit from Tokyo.
The activity I did was go cycling in Karuizawa. It was really fun. The surrounding atmosphere was yellow, red, and orange, which was very eye-catching. The best time is late October to November (depending on the weather).
Another thing I like is that as soon as I get out of the station, You can go shopping at the outlet, which is also big and not too expensive.
🚄 Travel:
From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen and get off at Karuizawa Station.
(Passes that can be used to travel here: JR TOKYO Wide Pass/ JR Rail Pass) You can go without a pass.
📸 Taken on November 13, 2022
#Karuizawa #Naganoprefecture #autumninJapan #OnedaytripfromTokyo #TravelJapanAutumnLeaves
#TravelJapanByYourself
Why is Karuizawa drop dead beautiful?
Getting there: Karuizawa is just one hour by Shinkansen or 3 hours by car from Tokyo station.
Karuizawa is a beautiful mountainous area in Nagano and is recognized as one of the most popular summer retreats in Japan.
But even in winter, it is super beautiful in terms of the surrounding nature environments and the awesome experience from driving, staying in modern hotels like Hoshino Resorts, Harvest Club Karuizawa or Prince Hotel, outdoor activities, dining in Harunire Terrace (by the way French fine dining using local ingredients are cool), having hotel onsen in front of a snowy mountain and then sipping chill Karuizawa brewed craft beer, enjoying the reading time and picture taking time in The Karuizawa Picturebook Museum, touring the local art gallery with kids. You would feel like you are in the fairytale world. #家族旅行 #軽井沢 #karuizawa #Nagono #familytrip
Church inside a forest - Karuizawa
Name📝: Karuizawa Kogen Church 輕井澤高原教會
Address📍: 〒389-0195 Nagano, Karuizawa, Japan
Nearest train station 🚉: Naka Karuizawa (20 minute walk from the station)
Famous for ✨: its location being on a highland, it’s tranquility, its beautiful architecture, and there is actually a service running on Sunday
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🐦 Karuizawa Wild Bird Forest (15 minute walk)
⛪️ Karuizawa Stone Church (1 minute walk)
🛍️ Karuizawa Outlet Prince Plaza (25 minute walk)
#karuizawa #japan #nagano
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Nearest train station 🚉: Karuizawa 輕井澤
Address 📍: 541 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0102, Japan
Famous for ✨:
🛍️ it’s souvenir shops, restaurants and being a shopping heaven
📷 its old photography studio for people to take pictures in old Japanese style
🍱 the various Japanese and international restaurants and food stalls
🏯 its old Japan flavour
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🛍️ Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza - one of the biggest outlets in Japan that can kill your whole day (15 minute walk)
💦 Kumoba Pond (12 minute walk)
#karuizawa #nagano #japan
A chic hotel to stay in Karuizawa!
Hotel Indigo Karuizawa has that welcoming vibes before you stepped into the compound. the entrance of the hotel is so grand especially during the winter season with giant Christmas tree with lightings. the fire place inside the lobby after entering is the highlight of the hotel. the staffs are very welcoming as well.
The room is spacious and has a small outdoor sitting area where you can watch the snow and backyard trees that give a sense of calmness to it! the fitness and spa is very minimalist and the onsen is huge and comfortable for daily use that opens until 11pm. There is both indoor and outdoor heated onsen for total relaxation.
breakfast place is magnificent with daily buffet provided. car park is free especially if you are renting a car to explore Karuizawa. The hotel is conveniently located within minutes from the main tourists attractions and easy to find.
#indigo #karuizawa #japantravel #chic
The Oldest Church in charming Karuizawa
Built by Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw in 1895, the Memorial Chapel is the oldest church in Karuizawa.
It's a humble little timber chapel, nestled in the wood. To pay respect, visitors have to take off shoes when entering and photography is not allowed inside the chapel.
My previous visit was in 2016 and I am blessed to be able to visit it again in 2023.
It's an ideal place to pray silently and to rest the mind. Let's all pray for world peace.
#karuizawa
#shawmemorialchurch
Must go outlet in Karuizawa
Name 📝: Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza (Karuizawa Outlet)
Address📍: Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0102, Japan (right outside Karuizawa train station)
Nearest train station 🚉: Karuizawa 輕井澤
Famous for ✨:
-the size and number of shops there and the sale, special sale and time sale
-being a must-go place if you go to Karuizawa
-the discount can be 50-70% off
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🛍️ Old Karuizawa Ginza Street for shopping (15 minute walk)
💦 Kumoba Pond (12 minute walk)
#karuizawa #nagano #japan
Kumoba Pond in Karuizawa
Nearest train station 🚉: Karuizawa 輕井澤
Address 📍: Kyūkaruizawa-1181-4 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0102, Japan
Famous for ✨:
🫧 the calm and smooth surface of the lake which often reflects the sky and the cloud - that’s why its Chinese name actually means “pond where clouds gather”
🦆 the many ducks in the pond
Tourist spots nearby 👀:
🛍️ Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza (15 minute walk)
🛤️ Old Karuizawa Ginza Street with many shops and restaurants (12 minute walk) #karuizawa #nagano #japan
1. Shibuya Street
Shibuya street has a lot of special meals and this is one of the best sashimi don that I have ever got
2. Horse Meat Sashimi
I lived near Omori Station so I have a chance to try Japanese most renowned Horsemeat Sashimi
3. Karuizawa Outlet
This is the best place to get designer items at the best rate. There are Bottega Venetta, Gucci, Margiela and you name it !!!#karuizawa #horsemeat #sashimi