21 Drive Spots in the Karuizawa Area! Introducing Model Courses for Day Trips and 2-Days / 1-Night Stays

Karuizawa, rich in nature, is a popular villa area and summer resort. It offers numerous scenic spots and tourist attractions, making it an enjoyable area for drivers using private or rental cars. This column introduces 21 recommended spots for a drive trip in Karuizawa and recommended model courses.

*Please check directly with each spot for the latest business hours, fees, and temporary closures.

Table of Contents

What makes the Karuizawa area so attractive?

The Karuizawa area is one of the popular resort destinations centered on the eastern edge of Nagano Prefecture. In 2019, it achieved a record with over 8.4 million visitors annually.  You can enjoy various activities such as Gourmet Dining, Shopping, and other Activities in Nature. It is recommended to explore by driving around. With a variety of spots available, it is also suitable for family trips that include young children and grandparents, spanning different generations.

Ten (10) Popular Drive Spots in the Karuizawa Area

• Shiraito Falls:  The Light-up is also a Highlight!
• Tsuruya Karuizawa Store: Fresh Ingredients are our Pride!
• Kumoba Pond: The changing Scenery through the four Seasons is captivating!
• Karuizawa Taliesin:  A Multi-purpose Integrated Facility where you can stay all Day!
• Kyu(Old)-Karuizawa Ginza Street: Enjoy the Historical Townscape!
• Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: Enjoy Shopping!
• Karuizawa Kogen Church: A Church surrounded by Forests!
• Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa: Beautiful Architecture!
• Karuizawa Hotchi Market: Buy Vegetables freshly picked in the morning!
• Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass Gazebo: Enjoy the spectacular Mountain View!

We will introduce 10 popular Drive Spots in the Karuizawa Area. Please feel free to use them as reference for your Travel plans. 

Shiraito Falls: The Light-up is also a Highlight!

Shiraito Falls, with a height of 3m and a width of 70m, is a spot where highly transparent groundwater springs from the rock surface. The water flowing from the rock surface looks as beautiful as white threads, which is why it is called Shiraito Falls. Annual Light-up events are held. The surrounding trees’ green in Summer and the snowy scenery in Winter make it a Charming spot. Its Romantic atmosphere makes it popular for couples on Date trips.

Shiraito Falls​
Address: Shiraito Falls, Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station North Exit / 25 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Shiraito Falls
Website: Shiraito Falls Official Page

Tsuruya Karuizawa Store: Fresh Ingredients are our Pride!

Tsuruya is a Supermarket that sells Food items mainly from Nagano and Gunma Prefectures. Among the many stores, there is the “Tsuruya Karuizawa Store” in Karuizawa Town. With a policy of “Commitment to Freshness”, the Store focuses on selling fresh Vegetables and Fruits sourced from contracted farmers. It is recommended to stop by to buy drinks and snacks during a Drive trip. The Deli corner also sells freshly baked bread, making it a good option when you feel a bit hungry.

Tsuruya Karuizawa Store​
Address: Tsuruya Karuizawa Store, 2707 Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 9 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 35 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Tsuruya Karuizawa Store
Website: Tsuruya Karuizawa Store Official Page

Kumoba Pond: The changing Scenery through the four Seasons is captivating!

Kumoba Pond is a scenic spot rich in Nature. It covers an area of about 1.2 hectares, and the walking path around the pond takes about 25 minutes to complete. Various plants and migratory birds can also be seen, making it an ideal spot for immersing in Nature and bird watching. The changing scenery with the seasons, such as autumn leaves and winter snowy landscapes, is also a highlight. Since there is no dedicated parking lot, please use nearby parking lots or public transportation.

Kumoba Pond​
Address: Kumoba Pond, Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 38 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Kumoba Pond
Website: Kumoba Pond Official Page

Karuizawa Taliesin: A Multi-purpose Integrated Facility where you can stay all Day!

Karuizawa Taliesin is a multi-purpose integrated Facility that combines museums, art galleries, restaurants, and various activities. Located by Shiozawa Lake, it is popular across generations, from adults to children. The “English Rose Garden” within the facility grows about 200 species and 1800 stocks of roses, and you may encounter rare varieties in Japan. Additionally, with a variety of dining options available, you can enjoy Karuizawa all day without leaving the facility.

Karuizawa Taliesin​
Address: Karuizawa Taliesin, 217 Oaza Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 9 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 37 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Karuizawa Taliesin
Website: Karuizawa Taliesin Official Page

Kyu(Old)-Karuizawa Ginza Street: Enjoy the Historical Townscape!

Kyu(Old)-Karuizawa Ginza Street is lined with historic buildings,making it a popular spot for strolling and enjoying the Town. It has been a popular villa destination area for foreigners since ancient times. You can feel the exotic atmosphere with many churches such as the “Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel.” Additionally, the “Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street” has many souvenir shops and handicraft goods stores. Many restaurants introduced in guidebooks are also concentrated in this area, making it a recommended spot for dining.

Kyu(Old)-Karuizawa Ginza Street​
Address: Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 4 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street
Website: Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street Official Page

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: Enjoy Shopping!

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is a large shopping mall located just outside the South exit of Karuizawa Station. The facility houses many famous branded stores and clothing stores. Additionally, in line with Karuizawa’s natural scenic charm, the grounds also have ample lawn area for picnics, including a large pond. There is also a kids’ park for small children, making it a good spot for family trips. Seasonal events such as illuminations are also highlights.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza​
Address: Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza,, Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 2 minutes on foot from Karuizawa Station / 38 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Website: Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza Official Page

Karuizawa Kogen Church: A Church surrounded by Forests!

Karuizawa Kogen Church is a church with over 100 years of history. Surrounded by greenery, the warm sunlight pouring through the trees is beautiful, and it is also known as a popular wedding venue. Sunday worship is held every Sunday from 8:00 am to 8:30 am, and anyone can participate freely. In addition, lantern-illumination events would be held during August and the Christmas season. It’s recommended to make a reservation for the events and spend time with your loved ones in the glamorous church.

Karuizawa Kogen Church​
Address: Karuizawa Kogen Church, , Hoshino, Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 12 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 30 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Karuizawa Kogen Church
Website: Karuizawa Kogen Church Official Page

Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa: Beautiful Architecture!

© Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa

The Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa is a museum that permanently exhibits the representative works of the Japanese painter Hiroshi Senju. Known for its beautiful architecture that harmonizes with the Nature of Karuizawa, the museum’s building itself is a highlight. The “Color Leaf Garden,” where various types of plants grow, is also one of the reasons for its popularity. Since the contents of the exhibits vary depending on the season, it is advisable to check the website in advance. There is also a bakery café and a museum shop where you can enjoy dining and shopping.

 Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa​
Address: Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa, 815 Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 9 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 36 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa
Website: Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa Official Page

Karuizawa Hotchi Market: Buy Vegetables freshly picked in the morning!

Karuizawa Hotchi Market is an integrated facility located in the Southern part of Karuizawa, amidst the picturesque rural landscapes. The agricultural product direct sales office sells fresh vegetables harvested locally and locally produced processed products. Among them, “Shimotsuke (Frosted) Vegetables” are recommended. These are vegetables such as cabbage, lettuce, and corn harvested by the Producers every morning and exposed to the cold weather which can enhance their flavor and texture. In addition, don’t miss the locally renowned restaurants like “Teuchi Soba Kaoriya,” “Shirahotaru Kitchen,” and “Atelier de Fromage.” It is also a good destination to stop by for lunch.

Karuizawa Hotchi Market​
Address: Karuizawa Hotchi Market, 2564-1 Oaza Hotsuchi, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Karuizawa Hotchi Market
Website: Karuizawa Hotchi Market Official Page

Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass Gazebo: Enjoy the spectacular Mountain View!

The Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass Gazebo is an observation deck located on the border of Gunma and Nagano prefectures, at an altitude of about 1200 meters. The magnificent scenery of the surrounding mountains, such as Mt. Asama and the Myogi Mountain Range overwhelms visitors. The Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass sightseeing trail is well-maintained making it a great destination for enjoying a Hike.However, please bear in mind that there are also unpaved routes. It is recommended to be well prepared with sturdy trekking shoes, etc.

Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass  Gazebo​
Address: Kyu(Old)-Usui PassGazebo, Toge Town, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture.
Access: 12 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station North Exit / 47 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass Gazebo
Website: Kyu(Old)-Usui Pass Gazebo Official Page

About Kita-Karuizawa

Kita-Karuizawa is located in the southwestern part of Naganohara Town, Gunma Prefecture, and can be accessed from Karuizawa in about 30 minutes by car. It is a nature-rich area with fewer tourists compared to Karuizawa, making it an attractive place to enjoy leisurely without the crowds. For those who want to enjoy something off the beaten path, it is particularly recommended as a hidden resort.

We will introduce 11 popular Drive Spots in the Kita-Karuizawa Area.

Eleven (11) Popular Drive Spots in Kita-Karuizawa

• Onioshidashi Park: Feel the Power of Mother Earth
• Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome-no-taki Falls: Feel the Negative Ions
• Asama Farm: Magnificent Scenery Full of Openness
• Tenku Dining (Asama Kuzanbo): Luxurious BBQ on the Terrace with Asama Mountain View
• Tenku Spa (Asama Kuzanbo): Day-Use Sauna and Bathing Available
• D-café: Dining in Nature
• Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm: Revived in Reiwa First Year
• Luomu no Mori: Stylish Spot in Nature
• Tsumagoi Panorama Line: Popular Drive Route
• Yamba Dam: Opened in 2020
• Agatsuma Gorge: National Scenic Spot

Onioshidashi Park: Feel the Power of the Earth

Onioshidashi Park is a scenic spot where you can feel the mystery of Nature. Its unique terrain was  formed by the lava flow from the eruption of Mount Asama in Tenmei Year 3 (Year 1783), which cooled and solidified. Onioshidashi Park is also famous as a place where many Alpine plants, represented by Hikarigoke, grow. Togoku Mitsuba Tsutsuji and Yama Tsutsuji can also be enjoyed from early May to late August.

Onioshidashi Park​
Address: Onioshidashi Park, 1053 Kamahara, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 20 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Onioshidashi Park
Website: Onioshidashi Park Official Page

Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome-no-taki Falls: Feel the Negative Ions

Asama Otaki Falls, with a drop of about 10 meters and a width of about 4 meters, is the largest waterfall in the Kita-Karuizawa area. It is popular as a power spot where you can feel plenty of negative ions. Furthermore, just below it, you can also see Uodome-no-taki Falls, with a drop of about 10 meters. In either case, park your car and walk through the forest to reach the Falls. The area around the Falls is lush with trees, making it a recommended place to visit in summer as a cool retreat.

Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome-no-taki Falls​
Address: Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome-no-taki Falls, Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 38 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 4 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome-no-taki Falls
Website: Asama Otaki Falls Official Page

Asama Farm: Magnificent Scenery Full of Openness

Asama Farm is a lush spot where you can feel the magnificent nature of Kita-Karuizawa. Located at an altitude of about 1300 meters, it has a total area of about 800 hectares. The Farm has walking paths, and you can observe the cows leisurely spending time in nature with Mt. Asama in the background. At the Farm entrance, there is also “Asama Farm Tea House,” where you can enjoy gourmet foods such as soft serve ice cream and Shinshu Miso-yaki Don (thinly sliced beef or pork cooked with Shinshu miso sauce and served over a bowl of rice). After enjoying the scenery, indulge your taste buds also.

Asama Ranch​
Address: Asama Farm, Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 11 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Asama Ranch
Website: Asama Ranch Official Page

Tenku Dining (Asama Kuzanbo): Luxurious BBQ on the Terrace with Asama Mountain View

Tenku Dining is a restaurant within the Villa Resort of “Asama Kuzanbo.” You can enjoy dishes made with fresh highland vegetables and carefully selected ingredients from all over Japan, such as pasta and pizza. The terrace seats, where you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mt. Asama, also offers a luxurious BBQ set with gourmet ingredients, making it convenient to enjoy without much preparation. Tenku Dining is open for Lunch and Dinner.

It is also open for Guests with prior reservations who are not staying overnight. When you want to enjoy the ingredients from the rich Nature of Shinshu Karuizawa and Gunma Tsumagoi, please be sure to stop by.

Tenku Dining (Asama Kuzanbo)​
Address: Tenku Dining, Asama Kuzanbo, 2032-2577 Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 40 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station
Location Info (Google Maps): Tenku Dining
Website: Tenku Dining Official Page

Tenku Spa (Asama Kuzanbo): Day-Use Sauna and Bathing Available

Tenku Spa, within Asama Kuzanbo, is a hot bath facility that uses Mt. Asama’s Natural Water flowing through Kita-Karuizawa. The large bath uses cypress, allowing you to enjoy the healing scent as if you were in the forest. The dry sauna with the scent of cypress also offers a löyly using Asama Natural Water, making it a must-visit for sauna lovers. The outdoor bath on the terrace with a panoramic view of Mt. Asama allows you to feel the pleasant breeze. Private rental baths, popular with families, are also available. For day-use, a fee plan with face towel and bath towel rental is available, making it easy to use.

Tenku Spa (Asama Kuzanbo)​
Address: Tenku Spa, Asama Kuzanbo, 2032-2577 Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 40 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station
Location Info (Google Maps): Tenku Spa
Website: Tenku Spa Official Page

D-café: Dining in Nature

D-café is a place where you can enjoy delicious meals and coffee in a healing space surrounded by the forest. You may be greeted by cute staff dogs when you visit. The menu includes light meals such as sandwiches and hot dogs, as well as full meals. It is also recommended to use it as a café and take a break with coffee or tea. Note that it is closed in winter from mid-December to late March.

D-café​
Address: D-café, 1053-566 Kamahara, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 33 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 14 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): D-café
Website: D-café Official Page

Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm: Revived in Reiwa First Year

The Cheese Farm, which sells authentic cheese made by dairy farmers, began operations in July of the first year of Reiwa (Year 2019) and has been popular among cheese fans nationwide. They offer various types of cheese, including a cheddar type aged for over three months, camembert type, and mozzarella type. Among them, “Fromage Soft,” made from freshly squeezed milk, is popular for its natural taste that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm​
Address: Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm, 1054-11 Kamahara, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 33 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 11 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm
Website: Kita-Karuizawa Cheese Farm Official Page

Luomu no Mori: Stylish Spot in Nature

At Luomu-no-Mori, Western-style residences built as cottages during the Taisho era are used as buildings with dining spaces and galleries lined up. Among them, “Kikori Pizza,” where you can enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza baked using Asama firewood, is very popular. The terrace seats and treehouse seats offer a special time. The shop sells homemade honey, which is recommended as a souvenir. Additionally, the gallery hosts exhibitions.

Luomu-no-Mori​
Address: Luomu-no-Mori, 1984-239 Kita-Karuizawa, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 36 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 12 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Luomu-no-Mori
Website: Luomu-no-Mori Official Page

Tsumagoi Panorama Line: Popular Drive Route

The Tsumagoi Panorama Line is a recommended drive course where you can enjoy the scenery from your car window. It is one of the main village roads in Tsumagoi Village, Gunma Prefecture, with a total length of about 30 km, divided into North and South routes. Whichever route you take, you will see the vast cabbage fields, one of Gunma Prefecture’s specialties, spreading with Mt. Asama in the background. Driving along the road will make you feel like you have indeed visited Kita-Karuizawa. While it is a road easy to drive, please be careful not to speed.

Tsumagoi Panorama Line​
Address: Tsumagoi Panorama Line, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture.
Access: 48 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 30 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Tsumagoi Panorama Line
Website: None

Yamba Dam: Opened in 2020

The Yamba Dam, a topic of conversation after its opening in March 2020, took over 70 years of planning. It was created to prevent the flooding of the Tone River and to secure water for daily and industrial use in the metropolitan area. Some parts, such as the Observation Deck and Plaza, are open to tourists. The huge concrete wall surrounded by nature is impressive. In autumn, the surrounding mountains are dyed with autumn leaves, and the contrast with the dam lake makes it a popular photo spot.

Yamba Dam​
Address: Yamba Dam, Kawaharabata, Naganohara Town, Agatsuma District,
Access: 1 hour by car from Karuizawa Station / 35 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Yamba Dam
Website: Yamba Dam Official Page

Agatsuma Gorge: National Scenic Spot

Agatsuma Gorge, designated as a National Scenic Spot in 1935, is a gorge stretching about 2.5 km from Ohashi to Shinhorai. The unique beauty of the gorge was formed by the lava from past volcanic activity has been eroded by the flowing river over many years forming a unique beautiful valley landscape. The gorge is blessed with abundant nature, with various plants blooming in spring, fresh greenery in summer, and autumn leaves in fall, making it a popular spot. A walking path about 60 minutes one-way is also well maintained, so it’s good to enjoy hiking after getting out of the car.

Agatsuma Gorge​
Address: Agatsuma Gorge, Gunma Prefecture, Agatsuma District, Higashiagatsuma Town, Matsutani 873
Access: 1 hour and 3 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station / 41 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Location Info (Google Maps): Agatsuma Gorge
Website: Agatsuma Gorge Official Page

Recommended Day Trip Drive Course in Karuizawa

• Day Trip Drive Course Condensed with Popular Spots
• 1-Night 2-Day Drive Course to Enjoy the Resort for Dates and Family Trips

Day Trip Drive Course Condensed with Popular Spots

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Area → Shiraito Falls → Onioshidashi Park → Restaurant Tenku Dining → Tenku Spa → Tsuruya Karuizawa Store → Usui Karuizawa IC

For a day trip drive course, it’s efficient to start from the center of Karuizawa, the Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street, tour the Northern attractions, and return to Usui Karuizawa IC. Please make a reservation when visiting Tenku Dining. The sauna at Tenku Spa is available until 6:00 pm, and the private individual baths until 9:30 pm (last entry at 8:00 pm). If you expect to arrive late, consider using the private individual baths.

1-Night 2-Day Drive Course to Enjoy the Resort for Dates and Family Trips

Day 1: Kumoba Pond → Lunch at Tenku Dining → Dog Run [Exclusive for Guests] → Check-in → Tenku Spa → Stay at Asama Kuzanbo

Day 2: Asama Kuzanbo → Asama Falls → Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza → Usui Karuizawa IC

If you have a little more time for a 2-Day/1-Night  schedule, it is recommended to enjoy Asama Kuzanbo after a walk around Kumoba Pond on the first day. On the second day, explore nearby spots where you can enjoy shopping and art. The Karuizawa area has many spots where you can enjoy delicious gourmet food, so it’s also recommended to include food walks as part of your travel plan. Sharing various dishes with friends or family will surely enhance the satisfaction of the trip.

Enjoy a Trip to Touch Nature in Karuizawa!

We have introduced the recommended spots for a drive trip in the Karuizawa area. If you want to enjoy sightseeing and dining in a natural environment, Karuizawa is one of the must-visit spots. Each spot is easily accessible within about 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station.

Since there are many attractions, planning a trip with an overnight stay for one or two nights will allow you to enjoy Karuizawa more deeply. If you are looking for accommodation, please consider “Asama Kuzanbo Villa Resort.” It is a facility where you can exclusively enjoy the nature of Karuizawa, with fully equipped Spa and Dining. For details and reservations, please check the link below.

*Please check directly with each spot for the latest business hours, fees, and temporary closures.

COLUMN

A Must-Visit! Complete Guide to Autumn Foliage Spots in the Karuizawa Area: Best Times and Recommended Highlights

Updated 05.10.2024

17 Athletic Activity Popular Spots in the Karuizawa Area: Fun for All Ages!

Updated 04.10.2024

[Carefully Selected by Locals] 24 Recommended Tourist Spots for Family Trips in the Karuizawa Area! Including Model Courses

Updated 04.10.2024

What is Karuizawa Like? Where is it Located? Enjoying Karuizawa and Exploring its Different Areas, Including Hidden Gems!

Updated 04.10.2024

List of Columns