Where to Stay in Karuizawa: Choosing the Right Area

The area around Karuizawa Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen and Shinano Railway, with the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza outlet mall just outside the south exit. You can reach Kyu-Karuizawa on foot or by bus, making it easy to get around without a car.

Best for

• ✓First trips to Karuizawa
• ✓Trips without a car
• ✓Those who want to shop at the outlets

Nearest stations

🚉 Karuizawa Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen and Shinano Railway)

A district centered on Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza, Karuizawa's busiest shopping street, with old villas still standing along tree-lined roads such as Mikasa-dori. Kumoba Pond is nearby, making for pleasant morning and evening walks.

Best for

• ✓Those who want to snack, browse and shop
• ✓Anyone who wants to stroll through the old villa district

Keep in mind

During the summer holiday season, roads around Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza tend to get congested.

Nearest stations

🚉 Walk or take a bus from Karuizawa Station

A district covering the area around Naka-Karuizawa Station on the Shinano Railway and the Hoshino area to the north. Home to Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu and Harunire Terrace, it lets you spend a quiet stay at a resort hotel surrounded by forest.

Best for

• ✓Those who want a quiet stay in the forest
• ✓Anyone who wants to enjoy hot springs and resort hotels

Keep in mind

From the shinkansen station, you need to transfer to the Shinano Railway, a bus or a taxi.

Nearest stations

🚉 Naka-Karuizawa Station (Shinano Railway)

A district centered on Lake Shiozawa, with Karuizawa Taliesin on the lakeshore and museums scattered around. You can find pensions, cottages and other accommodations that suit families and groups.

Best for

• ✓Family trips with children
• ✓Anyone who wants to visit museums

Keep in mind

It is away from the stations, so you will mainly get around by car, bus or taxi.

Nearest stations

🚉 Bus or taxi from Karuizawa Station or Naka-Karuizawa Station