As Autumn arrives, the Karuizawa area is enveloped in vibrant Autumn leaves, creating breathtaking scenery reminiscent of a painting. The stunning foliage of Karuizawa will undoubtedly capture your heart from the moment you visit. In this article, we will introduce you to Karuizawa’s most captivating Autumn foliage spots and the best ways to enjoy them.
*For the most up-to-date information on hours of operation, admission fees, or temporary closures at each spot, we kindly ask that you contact the respective locations directly.
Contents
Karuizawa is known as a tourist destination where you can enjoy the natural beauty of all four seasons, but its charm is especially heightened during the Autumn foliage season. Due to its high elevation, temperatures in Karuizawa drop rapidly, causing the leaves to change colours all at once, creating a vivid display of Autumn leaves. The best timing to see the Autumn foliage in the Karuizawa area is typically from mid-October to early November.
However, the timing of the peak foliage can vary slightly depending on the weather conditions of the year. It is recommended to check the latest Autumn foliage information for the area before visiting. Additionally, since the Autumn season attracts many visitors, it’s essential to book your accommodation early and plan your trip in advance.
Here are five highly recommended spots to view the Autumn leaves in Karuizawa. Feel free to use these as a reference when planning your trip:
Shiraito Falls, as its name suggests, is a beautiful waterfall where the water flows down like delicate white threads. It is one of Karuizawa’s iconic Autumn foliage spots. In the Fall, the contrast between the white waterfall and the colourful Autumn leaves creates a breathtaking view. While strolling around the waterfall, you can enjoy a relaxing moment, soothed by the sight of the foliage and the sound of the flowing water. This location is especially recommended for nature lovers and those looking to refresh in a peaceful environment. It’s also a great place to visit with your dog for a pleasant walk.
Shiraito Falls
Best time to see the Autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 20 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station North Exit, 25 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Kumoba Pond, also known as “Swan Lake,” is one of Karuizawa’s most iconic Autumn foliage spots. The sight of the surrounding trees changing colour all at once is truly impressive. The vibrant Autumn leaves reflecting off the pond’s surface create a picturesque scene, as if it were a painting. A well-maintained walking path allows you to leisurely enjoy the foliage as you stroll around the pond. Please note that there is no parking lot, so we recommend using public transportation.
Kumoba Pond
Best time to see the autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 38 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Kyu(old)-Karuizawa Ginza Street is an area where you can experience the rich history and culture of Karuizawa. Lined with long-established cafés, restaurants, and antique shops that have been around since the Meiji period, it’s a delightful place for a leisurely stroll. During the Autumn season, the street is transformed with vibrant Fall colours, captivating visitors. The contrast between the historic buildings and the Autumn leaves creates many photogenic spots, making it ideal for a camera walk. As you wander through the charming streets, immerse yourself in the beauty of Karuizawa’s Autumn.
Kyu(old)- Karuizawa Ginza Street
Best time to see the Autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 4 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station, 40 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Karuizawa Taliesin is a multi-facility complex that includes art museums, restaurants, and activity facilities. In Autumn, the vast gardens within the grounds are painted with brilliant Fall colours, offering stunning views. It’s a popular spot where families can enjoy a full day of activities, especially during the Autumn foliage season.
Karuizawa Taliesin
Best time to see the autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: 217 Oaza Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 9 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station, 37 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Kyu(old)-Usui Pass Viewing Platform is located on the border between Nagano and Gunma Prefectures. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Asama, the Southern Alps, and even the Yatsugatake Mountain Range. The vibrant Autumn leaves paired with the crisp Autumn air offer a stunning experience. It’s an ideal spot to visit during a scenic drive.
Kyu(old)-Usui Pass Viewing Platform
Best time to see the Autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: 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
Google Maps Website
In the Kita(north)-Karuizawa area, where the Asama Highlands are located, the best time to view Autumn leaves is from early October to early November. Since it is at a higher altitude than Karuizawa, the autumn foliage progresses about a week earlier, and you can enjoy the sight of the mountains and forests turning colour all at once.
Onioshidashi Park is a vast lava field created by the eruption of Mount Asama, offering one of the most unique landscapes in Japan. The Kannon-do Hall within the park was built to memorialize those affected by the volcanic disaster, and you can feel the history in the serene atmosphere. During Autumn, the contrast between the black lava and the red and yellow leaves creates a breathtaking scene that can only be seen here. It’s an ideal spot for history and nature lovers, as well as for families and visitors with their dogs.
Onioshidashi Park
Best time to see the Autumn leaves: Mid-October to early November
Address: 1053 Kanbara, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station, 20 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Mount Koasama offers a beautiful view of the entire mountain covered in the golden hues of Japanese larch trees. It’s a beginner-friendly hiking course, taking about an hour to reach the summit from the Mine-no-Chaya entrance, making it perfect for those new to hiking. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Mount Asama and the surrounding Autumn foliage. This spot is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, those seeking a refreshing experience in nature, and families. It’s a perfect way to take in the natural beauty of Autumn in Kita(north)-Karuizawa while trekking and enjoying the scenery.
Mount Koasama
Best Timing to see the autumn leaves: Mid-October to late October
Address: [Mine-no-Chaya Entrance Parking Lot] 2131-2 Nagakura, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture
Access: 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station, 20 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps
Tenku Dining is a restaurant located within the exclusive villa resort “Asama Kuzanbo.” Here, you can enjoy BBQ, pizza, and pasta made from locally sourced ingredients from Shinshu and Gunma on a stunning terrace with panoramic views of Mt. Asama. Dining in the crisp Autumn air is particularly special, offering a luxurious experience with the mountains bathed in Autumn colours as your backdrop. Additionally, during the Autumn foliage season, the “Autumn Foliage Concert Event” is held, where you can enjoy a unique experience that blends beautiful scenery with music. Be sure to check it out!
Tenku Dining
Best Timing for Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to Early November
Address: Asama Kuzanbo, 2032-2577 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 40-minute drive from Karuizawa Station
Google Maps Website
Asama Otaki and Uodome Falls are two stunning waterfalls located in the nature-rich area of Kita(north)-Karuizawa. During the Autumn season, the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades, creating a breathtaking contrast with the flowing water. Asama Otaki is an impressive waterfall, approximately 20 meters high, where you can soak in the abundant negative ions—perfect for those seeking a natural retreat. Uodome Falls, on the other hand, offers a gentler flow and a serene atmosphere. Both spots are ideal for those who enjoy hiking or nature walks.
Autumn Foliage at Asama Otaki & Uodome Falls
Best Timing for Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to Early November
Address: Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 38-minute drive from Karuizawa Station, 4-minute drive from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Agatsuma Gorge (Agatsuma-kyō) is a valley located in Gunma Prefecture and is recognized as a nationally designated scenic spot. During the Autumn foliage season, the picturesque combination of the Agatsuma River’s clear waters and the vibrant Autumn colours creates a stunning view that captivates visitors. The peak season for foliage is from late October to early November, and along the walking trails that follow the gorge, you can enjoy the vivid Autumn leaves while listening to the gentle flow of the river. This location is highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty or enjoy photography.
Agatsuma Gorge
Best Timing for Autumn Foliage: Mid-October to Early November
Address: 873 Matsudani, Higashiagatsuma Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
Access: 1 hour 3 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station, 41 minutes by car from Asama Kuzanbo
Google Maps Website
Day Trip
Kumoba Pond → Kyu(old)-Karuizawa Ginza Area → Shiraito Falls → Restaurant Tenku Dining → Onioshidashi Park → Usui-Karuizawa IC
This is a recommended day trip route to enjoy the autumn foliage of the Karuizawa area efficiently. Starting from the iconic Kumoba Pond, you’ll explore the Kyu(old)-Karuizawa Ginza, then visit Shiraito Falls. After enjoying lunch at Tenku Dining, proceed to Onioshidashi Park and end the trip at Usui-Karuizawa IC. This course allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of Autumn in Karuizawa in just one day.
Day 1
Karuizawa Taliesin → Kyu(old)-Usui Pass Scenic Viewing Platform → Lunch at Tenku Dining → Check-in → Tenku Spa → Stay at Asama KuzanboDay 2
Asama Kuzanbo → Asama Great Falls & Uodome Falls → Mt. Koasama Trekking → Usui-Karuizawa IC
This 1-night, 2-day course is ideal for leisurely exploring the Autumn foliage of the Karuizawa area. On Day 1, visit Karuizawa Taliesin and the Kyu(old)-Usui Pass Scenic Viewing Platform, enjoy lunch at Tenku Dining, and then check in at Asama Kuzanbo. Relax at the Tenku Spa and immerse yourself in a stay surrounded by nature. On Day 2, take a stroll around Asama Otaki Falls and Uodome Falls, trek up Mt. Koasama to enjoy the Autumn scenery, and end your journey at Usui-Karuizawa IC. This luxurious resort experience is perfect for enjoying both nature and fine dining, making it a great option for couples or family trips.
Karuizawa is an area where the beauty of Autumn foliage particularly stands out. The rich natural surroundings and historical sites harmonize to captivate visitors. If you’re looking to escape from your everyday routine and experience the stunning Autumn leaves, why not plan a trip to Karuizawa this fall?
With so many attractions, planning a trip with an overnight stay (or two) will allow you to fully enjoy everything Karuizawa has to offer. If you’re looking for a place to stay, we highly recommend considering the exclusive villa resort “Asama Kuzanbo.” Surrounded by Autumn foliage, you can enjoy luxurious spa treatments and dining in a serene, relaxing atmosphere. For more details and reservations, please refer to the links below:
On October 12 (Saturday) and October 13 (Sunday), 2024, a special concert event will be held at the restaurant “Tenku Dining,” located at the exclusive villa resort “Asama Kuzanbo” in Kita(north)-Karuizawa. Enjoying music in the heart of nature will further enhance the beauty of the vibrant Autumn leaves, offering a memorable experience. Especially noteworthy is that dogs and children under elementary school age can participate for free, making this event perfect for families. Take in the crisp Autumn air while fully enjoying the art of autumn with the combination of foliage and music. For details and reservations, please refer to the links below:
*For the latest information on hours of operation, fees, or temporary closures, we kindly ask that you contact each spot directly.
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
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.
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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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 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
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
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.
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, 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 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 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, 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 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
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
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
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
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, 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
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.
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.
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.