Hotels in Karuizawa

Karuizawa: Nature's Haven and Cultural Jewel Awaits

Nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is a charming year-round destination that seamlessly blends breathtaking nature with cultural richness. Known for its picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Kyukaruizawa Forest and the tranquil Lake Kawaguchiko, this highland retreat offers outdoor enthusiasts endless hiking trails and natural parks. Discover the unique allure of Karuizawa’s hot springs, art museums, and quaint local shops. With its romantic ambiance and luxurious accommodations, it’s the perfect escape for couples and nature lovers alike. Experience the essence of Japan’s natural wonderland in Karuizawa—a true gem waiting to be explored. For the best hotel rates in Karuizawa, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Karuizawa

Some of the best places to stay in Karuizawa are Kyukaruizawa, Kurita and Shirakabako. Karuizawa is a charming destination known for its beautiful nature, upscale shopping, and outdoor activities. Kyukaruizawa offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Kurita is perfect for a tranquil retreat, while Shirakabako boasts stunning lake views and hiking opportunities. Accommodations in these areas range from luxury resorts to cozy inns, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers seeking a relaxing getaway in Japan. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Karuizawa:

1. KyuKaruizawa: KyuKaruizawa is a captivating destination known for its ski resorts and outdoor activities, perfect for adventure enthusiasts and families alike. You can enjoy skiing at the Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort or indulge in shopping at the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. For a relaxing experience, visit the Hoshino Onsen Hot Spring. Consider staying at Kyukaruizawa Kikyo, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel offering business amenities and family-friendly services. Another excellent option is HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star lodge with a natural hot spring, adventure sports, and ski shuttle access. Lastly, Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star hotel, provides hot spring facilities and business services, ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. KuritaOpens in a new window: Kurita is ideal for those seeking a blend of culture and sport, with attractions like the Zenko-ji Temple and Shiga Kogen Ski Area nearby. This area caters to ski lovers and business travelers alike. For a premium stay, Hotel de La Neige by Onko ChishinOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star boutique hotel featuring unique decor and business facilities. Alternatively, Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort, offers diverse dining options and recreational activities. If you prefer a traditional experience, Aburaya TosenOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan with an onsite hot spring and full spa services, perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes.
3. ShirakabakoOpens in a new window: Shirakabako is a picturesque location surrounded by lakes and ski fields, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics. Explore Lake Shirakaba or enjoy skiing at the Kurumayamakogen Ski Area. For accommodation, Hoshino Resorts RISONARE YatsugatakeOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that provides easy access to skiing. Matsumoto Marunouchi HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, features various dining options and entertainment amenities. Lastly, Hoshino Resorts KAI MatsumotoOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan offering hot springs and a full-service spa for a rejuvenating getaway.

Things to do in Karuizawa for first time

A visit to Karuizawa offers a delightful escape into a natural wonderland, where lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains abound. Enjoy winter skiing, scenic hiking, and relaxing hot springs, along with shopping at charming outlets. Three days here lets travelers fully immerse in its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Karuizawa:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Karuizawa Toy Kingdom, a delightful amusement park perfect for families and anyone young at heart. Enjoy various attractions and activities that will bring out your inner child. Afterward, make your way to the Asama Great Falls, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the cascading water and surrounding nature—ideal for some memorable photos. Conclude your day at the Aisai no Oka Viewpoint, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape, especially beautiful at sunset.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a hike up Mount Asama, an active volcano offering exhilarating trails and rewarding vistas. After your hike, visit the Asama Volcano Museum to learn more about the volcanic activity in the region and its impact on the local environment. Wrap up your day at Fugen-ji Temple, a serene spot where you can appreciate traditional Japanese architecture and the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds this historic site.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Kumanokotai Shrine, a peaceful place filled with spiritual significance and beautiful nature. Next, head to Yubatake, known as the “hot water field,” where you can see the iconic steam rising from the hot springs and immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere. Finally, take a scenic drive through Usui Pass, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and perhaps stop for a picnic or a photo op before concluding your visit to this picturesque area.

5 tips to find a great Karuizawa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Karuizawa are February, June, and November, when hotel rates tend to be more affordable. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least six months in advance to secure better prices. To fully appreciate the main attractions, plan to stay for at least 1-2 days, which allows you to explore the area's museums, natural parks, and hot springs. With its great value for money, Karuizawa offers an excellent experience for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to Karuizawa can be an exciting way to save on your getaway. To uncover these opportunities on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may find attractive rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, ensuring you’re more likely to snag a great deal for your Karuizawa trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Karuizawa.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Karuizawa. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Karuizawa

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan:

• せきれい橋川上庵: A highly popular restaurant that specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine, particularly known for its exquisite soba noodles made from locally sourced buckwheat, showcasing the region's agricultural heritage.
• 酢重正之レストラン: This highly popular establishment offers a unique twist on Japanese flavors, incorporating seasonal ingredients to create dishes that reflect the essence of Nagano, including inventive takes on classic Japanese fare.
• ピレネー: Renowned for its innovative fusion cuisine, this restaurant combines French techniques with Japanese ingredients, providing a memorable dining experience that highlights the culinary creativity of the region while respecting local traditions.

Best time to go to Karuizawa

Karuizawa experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.6°F (-3.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Karuizawa, January, February, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, June, and September are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.