Hotels in Karuizawa

Karuizawa: A Serene Escape into Nature’s Artistry and Cultural Treasures

Nestled in the serene mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is a charming blend of nature and elegance, perfect for a luxurious getaway. Known for its cool climate and lush landscapes, this classy mountain resort offers stunning views, enchanting hiking trails, and picturesque parks. Explore the quaint streets of Old Karuizawa, dotted with cozy cafes and unique boutiques, or relax in soothing hot springs. Art enthusiasts can enjoy the local museums, while nature lovers can wander through pristine natural parks. With its enchanting charm and tranquil atmosphere, Karuizawa is an idyllic escape for romance and relaxation. For great hotel rates in Karuizawa, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Karuizawa

Karuizawa offers a range of accommodations from luxurious resorts with stunning mountain views to cozy boutique hotels. Visitors can enjoy modern amenities, beautiful landscapes, and access to outdoor activities. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or a lively stay, Karuizawa has options to fit various preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels in Karuizawa that our travelers love:

1. HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window: This exceptional 5.0-star lodge offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, making it perfect for leisure travelers seeking a rejuvenating escape. With on-site natural hot springs, including both indoor and outdoor public baths, guests can indulge in a serene wellness experience. The hotel features adventure sports options like nearby horseback riding, providing an exciting dimension to your stay. The beautiful natural surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere, while the outstanding dining options elevate your culinary experience. This property is designed for those who appreciate high-quality service and immersive nature experiences.
2. Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4.5-star hotel is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a sophisticated retreat with top-notch amenities. It boasts a variety of hot spring facilities, including public indoor and outdoor baths, ensuring a restorative experience. The property caters to luxury vacationers with its elegant architecture and high-end restaurant offerings. Business amenities are seamlessly integrated, providing a comfortable and refined environment for both relaxation and work. Guests can enjoy curated experiences that enhance their stay, making it a perfect choice for discerning travelers.
3. Kyukaruizawa KikyoOpens in a new window: This stylish 4.5-star hotel is tailored for business travelers who seek a blend of luxury and convenience. With dedicated facilities such as a business center, meeting rooms, and conference spaces, it provides everything needed for a productive stay. The property also prioritizes family amenities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those traveling with children. The elegant design and high-end services ensure a smooth, high-quality journey for guests. This hotel is a distinguished choice for professionals who appreciate comfort and sophistication during their travels.

Top locations to stay in Karuizawa

When visiting Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, consider staying in Kyukaruizawa, Ohinata, or Iwamurada. Kyukaruizawa offers hotsprings, natural parks, and museums, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration. Ohinata provides scenic beauty, while Iwamurada boasts historical monuments. For first-time visitors, Kyukaruizawa is the best choice, combining charm and a variety of activities to enjoy.

1. KyukaruizawaOpens in a new window: Kyukaruizawa is a fantastic place to stay if you're looking to unwind in nature while enjoying some cultural experiences. With its beautiful natural parks and serene hot springs like Hoshino Onsen Hot Spring, it's perfect for relaxation. You can stroll through the charming Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, lined with unique shops and cafes, or take the family to Karuizawa Toy Kingdom for some fun activities. The blend of outdoor beauty and cultural attractions makes this area a must-visit.
2. OhinataOpens in a new window: Ohinata offers a more tranquil experience, where you can appreciate the local monuments and soak in the peaceful surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for those who enjoy exploring lesser-known gems and connecting with the culture and history of the region. While smaller and quieter, its charm lies in its intimate atmosphere and the opportunity to discover unique historical sites.
3. IwamuradaOpens in a new window: Iwamurada is a quaint area that offers a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage through its monuments. It's perfect for travelers who appreciate history and want to explore local landmarks without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist spots. This hidden gem allows you to enjoy a more authentic experience while being close enough to the attractions in nearby areas.

Things to do in Karuizawa

Nestled in stunning mountainous terrain, this charming destination offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and leisurely pursuits. Enjoy golfing on lush greens, skiing down powdery slopes, or exploring serene lakes and expansive forests. With hot springs to relax in after a day of adventure, it’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers and leisure seekers alike.

• Hoshino Onsen Hot SpringOpens in a new window – Relax and rejuvenate at Hoshino Onsen Hot Spring, a tranquil retreat nestled in nature. Enjoy a soak in the soothing mineral-rich waters surrounded by beautiful scenery, and explore nearby attractions like museums and natural parks to make the most of your visit.
• Old Karuizawa Ginza StreetOpens in a new window – Stroll down Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, a charming pathway lined with quaint shops and cafes. Discover local crafts, delicious snacks, and unique souvenirs as you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic area.
• Karuizawa Kogen ChurchOpens in a new window – Visit the Karuizawa Kogen Church, a serene place of worship that offers a peaceful environment to reflect and connect. The church's beautiful architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature, making it a lovely spot for some quiet contemplation.
• Karuizawa Stone ChurchOpens in a new window – Marvel at the stunning Karuizawa Stone Church, known for its striking design and scenic backdrop. This architectural gem features intricate stonework and expansive glass windows that invite natural light, creating a tranquil ambiance perfect for visitors.
• Karuizawa Toy KingdomOpens in a new window – Bring the family to Karuizawa Toy Kingdom, an exciting theme park filled with fun activities for kids of all ages. From rides to interactive play areas, there’s something to entertain everyone while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Karuizawa

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Karuizawa are March, April, and June, when hotel prices may drop. For those looking to explore the area's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural wonders, staying for at least 1 to 2 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy attractions such as museums, historical monuments, and beautiful natural parks, as well as relaxing at the local hot springs. This offers great value for money while allowing you to experience the rich history and culture that Karuizawa has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals for Karuizawa, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions. With Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window you can compare hotel prices and amenities directly through the app, helping you make informed choices. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know, increasing your chances of booking the best hotel deal for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a Karuizawa hotel. If you’re seeking something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest more affordable alternatives to increase your chances of getting the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, you might want to look at hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sights you intend to visit. You could also consider independent hotels located a bit farther out, which are usually likely to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Karuizawa. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Karuizawa are January, August, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, April to June are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.