Escape the Heat and Visit Karuizawa, Japan's Beloved Summer Retreat Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-Date: Jun 4, 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Escape the Heat and Visit Karuizawa, Japan's Beloved Summer Retreat

Since the late 19th century, Karuizawa has been a popular destination for international visitors looking to escape Japan's hot and humid summers. Even today, many summer villas are scattered throughout this charming area, just on the outskirts of Tokyo. Discover the latest attractions in Karuizawa and explore some of the area’s recommended dining spots in this page.

About Karuizawa

Located in Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is one of Japan's most renowned resort areas. Situated at an elevation of 900 to 1,000 meters and surrounded by mountains, this plateau town enjoys relatively cooler summers. Its pleasant climate and environment make it an ideal summer getaway, so much so that international residents and tourists frequented Karuizawa during the hot summers in the late 19th century. Today, thanks to the bullet train, Karuizawa is more accessible than ever, with a direct train from Tokyo Station taking just about an hour.

Karuizawa's abundant nature offers delicious local cuisine, breathtaking views, and historic architecture that you won't find elsewhere. It's perfect for a day trip from Tokyo, offering a moment of bliss and tranquility to escape the scorching heat. Why not plan a visit and experience Karuizawa for yourself?

Karuizawa can be divided into five main areas, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere.

The Kyu-Karuizawa (Old Karuizawa) area offers old-fashioned townscapes steeped in nostalgic ambiance, while the Shin-Karuizawa (New Karuizawa) area features a massive outlet mall. The Minami-Karuizawa (South Karuizawa) area is known for its numerous golf courses, and the Naka-Karuizawa (Mid-Karuizawa) area offers natural beauty and hot springs. Lastly, the Oiwake (lit. "forked") area boasts historical remnants from its days as a post town.

You'll get the most out of your visit if you plan ahead and decide on which areas you want to see. All five areas are scenic and great for exploring on foot.

Kyu-Karuizawa Living Up to Its Reputation as a Summer Retreat

■Shiraito Falls
Shiraito Falls, whose name literally means "white thread," is a stunning sight where underground spring water cascades from a curved rock wall that is 3 meters high and 70 meters wide. The water falls in hundreds of delicate streams, creating a draping effect that looks cool and refreshing. The mist from the falls, carried by a cool breeze, provides a pleasant sensation, and the air is filled with negative ions that enhance the refreshing atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to soothe your soul.

■Kumobaike Pond
Sometimes called Swan Lake, Kumobaike Pond is a tranquil spot that embodies the serene environment of Karuizawa. The pond reflects the beautiful seasonal landscapes on its surface, where waterfowl gracefully glide. During the spring and summer, when the fresh greenery is particularly beautiful, you can see and feel the refreshing coolness and clarity of the water. A 1 kilometer walking path surrounds the pond, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll immersed in nature. The area also features a cemetery for foreigners as well as several museums that attract many tourists.

Keeping Cool in Naka-Karuizawa, the Ideal Getaway

■Stone Church
The Stone Church is one of the most unique places for exchanging vows. Representing the preachings of the non-church movement who say that all of nature is the earthly church of the one above, the chapel marries together the natural patterns, textures, and rhythms of organic elements such as the light, the sun’s movements, stone, and water. The austere atmosphere may seem imposing at first, but upon entering the church, you'll be enveloped by the peaceful harmony of light, water, and greenery, accompanied by the soothing echoes of flowing water, creating a calming experience.

■Harunire Terrace
Harunire Terrace is a charming little area nestled in the forest, designed to recreate the everyday life of Karuizawa. Named after the Japanese elm trees that dominate the forest, the terrace features buildings connected by wooden decks along the clear waters of the Yukawa River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of eateries, galleries, home decor shops, and bookstores, all offering stylish and tasteful selections, while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

Top Restaurant Picks for Enriching Your Summer Getaway in Karuizawa

What’s a vacation without treating yourself to some exceptional dining in a nice setting? Discover these bars that serve exquisite meals and delightful cocktails, guaranteed to enhance your holiday experience.

Cocktail Works Karuizawa (Karuizawa)

The owner of this bar and Italian bistro has over 30 years of bartending experience and has won numerous awards in cocktail competitions.

At [Cocktail Works Karuizawa], you can enjoy the [Shinshu Beef Rump Steak] (3,600 JPY), which is full of the beefy umami with a hint of sweetness, and the [100% Shinshu Beef Bolognese] (1,900 JPY), featuring firm and fresh pasta with a herby sauce. These dishes pair perfectly with the seasonal cocktails made with fresh fruits. The non-alcoholic mocktails are also very popular. The bar offers a selection of wines from around the world, making it an excellent choice for enjoying drinks after a meal.

Moreover, the adjacent liquor store offers a selection of alcoholic beverages from Nagano Prefecture in addition to whiskey and craft spirits from all over the world, so you can do a little souvenir shopping before or after your meal.

The bar has an old-time feel, perfect for mature clientele. Time passes slowly as you luxuriate in conversation with friends and loved ones, enjoying elegant moments in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Cocktail Works Karuizawa

Open: [Weekdays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm / Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) Last order for food is 10:00 pm / [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:30 pm) Last order for food is 10:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 15-minute walk from the north exit of Karuizawa Station on JR Hokuriku Shinkansen
Address: 1-12-C, Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Map
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LOW-NON-BAR #RTS (Karuizawa)

Made to look like an art gallery, this bar is designed as a place where both drinkers and non-drinkers can enjoy each other's company. As such, it’s no wonder that the bar specializes in non-alcoholic mocktails and low-alcohol cocktails.

Some drinks appreciated by both non-drinkers and drinks alike are the [Gin & Tonic] (1,100 JPY) which is made with non-alcoholic craft gin and offers a crisp, refreshing taste, and the [LOW-NON-BAR] (1,300 JPY) which is a namesake berry-flavored mocktail served in a charming bird-shaped glass. Another delightful experience is selecting a bottle and glass of your choice and having the bartender prepare a personalized cocktail. You'll be amazed by the complex flavors of their mocktails that go beyond simple mixed juices.

Pair these drinks with appetizers, main dishes, pasta, and pizza. The bar is open from noon until night, making it a perfect spot for brunch, aperitifs, dinner, and any other occasion.

The white interior makes the bar look like a bright art gallery. The bottles displayed along the wall add a nice touch. Simply admiring the bottles of various shapes and colors is a delight in itself.

LOW-NON-BAR #RTS

Open: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Closed: Irregular
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY
Access: 18-minute walk from Karuizawa Station on JR Hokuriku Shinkansen
Address: 813-4-A, Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Map
More Details Reservation

By now, you can probably understand why Karuizawa has long been favored by international visitors. As you enjoy the unique experiences of today's Karuizawa, take a moment to reflect on the past visitors who fell in love with this charming summer retreat.

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

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