At あさま空山望 (ASAMA KUZANBO), a single villa resort in Kita-Karuizawa, Aiming to form a base for art creation in the Karuizawa and Kita-Karuizawa area, Providing artists with a creative environment that confronts nature あさま空山望 Artist-in-Residence Program" (Supported by Kita-Karuizawa Tourist Association) has started.
Applications for artists to participate in this program will be accepted beginning Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Residency program where art and nature resonate with each other
あさま空山望" is located in Kita-Karuizawa, an area of unspoiled nature, This is a single villa resort with a total of 16 villas. Magnificent views of Mt. Asama, quiet mornings, clean air, etc, The unique environment that can only be experienced here has provided creative inspiration to many of our residents.
Through new works and exchanges that are born here, We will continue to present a new form of culture that combines art and resorts.
Background of Program Implementation
The Karuizawa and Kita-Karuizawa area is dotted with many museums and ateliers, Since ancient times, painters, craftsmen, and designers have been engaged in creative activities.
The facility was also supervised by world-renowned designer Junko Koshino, Elements of art are incorporated into the design and spatial organization of the villas. The cultural background of these areas and the attractiveness of the natural environment are utilized, We launched this project as a program to support the creation of artists.
Program Outline
Application period: Thursday, November 27, 2025 - Friday, December 28, 2025 length of one's stay: One month from mid-January to April 2026 (long-term stay negotiable) Number of applicants1 pair (individual or duo)
accommodationDeluxe Suite "Cassiopeia (Living room, dining room, bedroom, Japanese-style room, kitchenette, bathroom and toilet) Production Space: Living room full of natural light can be used as a studio. loaning of a vehicle (e.g. to a friend)One light passenger car (insurance and fuel expenses are paid by us)
(Supported by Kita-Karuizawa Tourist Association)
Main benefits and support
Accommodation and use of production space free of charge Partial provision of basic equipment and supplies necessary for production (content to be negotiated) Publicity, interviews, and documentation during the stay (to be posted on the official website and SNS) Provide opportunities to present the results of the project and hold private exhibitions (assuming guest lounges, restaurants, etc. within the facility).
How to apply
Please submit the following documents by e-mail (PDF format, subject line specified). If the file size is large, please use Gigafile Mail, etc.
Portfolio Proposal for a project you would like to work on during your stay in Japan Biography (optional form)
subject: "Artist-in-Residence Program Application Forms Sent to: _name (e.g.: Artist-in-Residence Program Application Forms sent to: Taro Sorayama)
Late January 2026 (only adopted applicants will be notified by e-mail)
length of one's stay
Approximately one month from late January to April 2026
publication of results
Scheduled for May 2026
Contact us
あさま空山望 "Artist in Residence" Office E-mail:mkg@kuzanbo.jp
■ Exhibition of works by Junko Koshino to commemorate the start of the program
From December 1, 2025, the paintings "Seiten I" and "Shattered Rings" by Junko Koshino, who supervised あさま空山望. It is on display in the guest lounge of the facility. Please take a look when you visit us.
We sincerely thank you for your continued patronage of ASAMA KUZANBO.
Due to maintenance, certain ancillary facilities will be temporarily closed on the following dates.
Period: Thursday, 15 January 2026 to Friday, 13 March 2026 (scheduled)
Please note that for guests staying overnight, dinner and breakfast will continue to be served in your room as usual.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding.
We will start selling the "Adult Yamagomori Plan," a winter-only package plan for consecutive nights that allows you to enjoy a long stay in an extraordinary space surrounded by nature.
■Adult mountain retreats" are more beautiful and enriching.
We will start selling the "Adult Yamagomori Plan," a winter-only package plan for consecutive nights that allows you to enjoy a long stay in an extraordinary space surrounded by nature.
■Adult mountain retreats" are more beautiful and enriching.
This plan is a 3-night minimum stay package that allows you to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery and clear winter air from December to March, when Mt. From this year, we have enriched the “winter dining experience” with new dinner options using ingredients from Shinshu, the latest cooking equipment for breakfast, and carefully selected lunches. In addition, the program has evolved to include optional activities such as a snowshoeing tour and the privilege of receiving a skincare set from POLA's top brand B.A., making your stay even more fulfilling for all five senses.
A winter dining experience that fills a day
As a new dinner option, guests can warm up their bodies with Shinshu Miso Ghibier and Jyoshu Pork Shabu Shabu. For breakfast, please enjoy cooking in the kitchenette equipped with a Barmuda oven, kettle, Zojirushi pressure rice cooker, and Vermicula oven pot with steamy aroma. In between your stay, we will prepare one meal of a select menu specially prepared for the inn, which is packed with the flavor of the ingredients. Small luxuries such as soups and hamburgers that you can choose according to your mood will enrich your villa stay.
Polaris Exclusive: Winter Time of Tranquility in the Sauna and Theater
The Presidential Suite “Polaris” is a luxurious space equipped with a private sauna and theater screen, where you can spend time conditioning your body and mind. After warming your body in the sauna, you can enjoy a movie with a glass of wine after taking a snow bath, a "quiet luxury" unique to winter.
Optional activities available for refreshment during your stay
Activities are available for refreshment and exercise during your stay. For those staying with their dogs, "private snowshoe tours with a dedicated guide to enjoy with your dog" are available as an option. While walking on snow-covered paths with your dog, you can view the beautiful snow-covered Mount Asama, take commemorative photos with the spectacular view in the background, and enjoy "tea time on the snow" in the snow. In the spacious dog run on the premises, you can enjoy not only playing in the snow, but also treasure hunting in the snow and other snow activities.
■Winter-only option to rent a luxury EV with studless tires from Tokyo
We offer a round-trip car rental option for the winter season that provides comfortable transportation from the heart of the city to an extraordinary space. The car model is the Mercedes Benz EQS SUV, a quiet and silent electric vehicle ideal for winter driving. Equipped with studless tires, this six-passenger vehicle can be driven safely from the city center to snowy roads. Enjoy the snowy landscape of Kita-Karuizawa while experiencing the quietness unique to this luxury EV and the power of an SUV.
This plan is available for individual long-term stays as well as for groups and organizations. あさま空山望 offers a stay where you can let your mind go and relax in the tranquil rhythm of nature in Kita-Karuizawa. Please enjoy "Adult Yamakomori" in your own style, such as remote work, workcation, corporate training, off-site meetings, reading, writing, and production activities.
Winter "Adult Yamakomori Plan" with 3-night minimum stay Accommodation dates: Monday, December 1, 2025 through Friday, March 20, 2025 Reservations can be made from 3 nights. This plan does not include meals.
This Christmas, why don't you spend a relaxing time with your family, loved ones, or your dog while being healed by the spectacular view of Mount Asama and the great nature of Kita-Karuizawa?
One limited edition of the Presidential Suite "Polaris" will feature a Christmas tree made of natural fir trees from the neighboring village of Tsumagoi, creating a mature atmosphere.
Dinner includes a Christmas gift special of choice.
Christmas cake (Berry tart 12cm size, for 2-3 persons)
Upgrade from sparkling wine to champagne for in-room drinks
Christmas cake for your dog
■By a traveling chef1day (of the month)1French course dinner for a limited number of couples
We also offer the option of a French course dinner by an on-site chef for a limited number of "Polaris" guests per day.
|Example of Christmas Plan Course Menu
Pure white cauliflower blancmange and marinated scallops
Dough kneaded with beets and Hokkaido duck crepe
Lobster and Bisque Cod Ravioli
Braised Jyoshu Beef Ho Ho Meat in Red Wine with Kitaakari and Fermented Butter Purée
Chocolate pudding with mellow rum flavor Bonnet
| Forest Christmas Villa Plan with Dinner
Lodging period: Saturday, November 29, 2025 to Thursday, December 25, 2025
Included: breakfast and dinner, Christmas gift privilege, service charge and accommodation tax
Rates: Varies depending on room type and number of guests. For details, please visit the reservation website.
We ask that you bring your own food for your dog.
The Kita-Karuizawa area around ASAMA KUZANBO is located at an elevation of approximately 1100m above sea level.
Since the minimum temperature is usually below freezing from mid-November onward, there is a possibility of snow accumulation and icy road surfaces until around April.
Please be sure to bring snow tires (studless tires or chains if normal tires are used).
Please check the weather information and road conditions, and come with sufficient caution.
Also, please bring warmer clothes for the mornings and evenings, as it can be unexpectedly cold outside.
*Photo shows ASAMA KUZANBO in the early morning of November 16, 2022.
ASAMA KUZANBO New Year Osechi Plan
ASAMA KUZANBO is accepting reservations again this year for the "Original New Year's Eve Osechi Plan" available only on New Year's Eve.
The "New Year's Eve Osechi Plan," which sold out last year, has been further enhanced and is now available at a new restaurant in Nihonbashi, Tokyo.A long-established ryotei (Japanese-style restaurant), established in 1913.Genjiten HamadayaWe will be preparing an original Osechi that was created exclusively for ASAMA KUZANBO by ASAMA KUZANBO. The traditional taste that has been passed down since the company's establishment is preserved in this beautifully prepared osechi, which is filled with auspicious festive snacks, grilled dishes, and simmered dishes, making it a perfect dish for the New Year's celebration at ASAMA KUZANBO.
In addition, we will offer a new “New Year's Osechi for dogs” made with carefully selected ingredients, all of which are additive-free. A colorful two-tiered stacked dish includes tofu and rice flour egg sponge cake, roast beef, chicken and okara meatloaf, and more.
As a reward for the year, why don't you spend a peaceful year-end and New Year's holiday with your loved ones at ASAMA KUZANBO, a rich natural setting with a spectacular view of Mount Asama?
ASAMA KUZANBO Original Osechi Plan Date of stay: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (New Year's Eve only)
In October, the trees begin to change color and the beautiful autumn leaves can be seen, making it one of the most beautiful times to visit Kita-Karuizawa. We have prepared special events and plans for you to enjoy “Autumn Reading” and “Autumn Foliage”.
■ Picture book library for children "Book Journey in the Forest and Sky
The Kita-Karuizawa Bungo Library, a collection of works by great writers and artists associated with Kita-Karuizawa, is available in the guest lounge and has been well received by many guests. This fall, the library will expand its lineup with the addition of a new children's picture book library, “Book Journey in the Forest and Sky. The selection of books was supervised by the Karuizawa Museum of Picture Book Art, located in the Karuizawa cultural complex ”Musee no Mori". The museum is known as a "center of picture book culture" with a collection of original picture book illustrations and materials by artists from Japan and abroad. The museum has newly added 16 picture books on the themes of autumn, nature, and Karuizawa, selected by the museum's curators. The colorful and profound works are mainly for small children and elementary school students, but adults can also enjoy them, and parents and children can spend a moment together turning the pages and being enveloped by the autumn forest.
*The library is open to all guests of the hotel.
Examples of books: Inside the Forest / A Bear and a Cat / Dr. Bombastus' Illustrated Book of Mysterious Plants / What If There Were No Plants on Earth? / On a Starry Night / Hide and Seek in the Woods / Quiet customer / Library Lion, etc.
■Picture Book Theater Spreading on a Starry Night - Read-aloud Screening
During the period when this plan is offered, a "Starry Night Picture Book Theater" will be held on weekends only in October and November, which can be viewed from a dome tent set up inside the restaurant. The projector will project images of storytelling in a fantastical space inspired by the starry sky. The works are selected from heartwarming stories and ASAMA KUZANBO original stories that are perfect for a good night's sleep.
Warm milk and herb tea will be served at the venue, and there will also be a children's space "Little Forest Kids Area" with ASAMA KUZANBO's nature-themed coloring books and picture books related to Kita-Karuizawa. Parents and children can enjoy a heartwarming time surrounded by picture book stories and music.
Time: 18:30 - 21:00 (free entrance and exit) This theater is open to all guests.
■Good night picture book kit" that turns your room into a world of stories
In addition, a "Autumn Sky Path Osanpo-Map" that introduces the flora and fauna of Kita-Karuizawa and a "Forest Greeting Card" that describes the weather, temperature, and changes in nature the next morning in picture book form are available in the guest room. In the morning, guests can go for a walk with these cards in hand and take home a piece of the forest in a "small autumn specimen box" as a souvenir of their trip.
■Explore the autumn forest! Parents and children will be enthralled by the autumn leaves and the spectacular "Sky Slider" experience
In addition, a new 32-meter-long slide, "Tenku Slider," is being built at the Kids' Play Field on the grounds, which will be inaugurated in the summer of 2025. The exhilarating and thrilling experience of sliding toward the sky in front of the magnificent view of Mt. Asama will be an enthralling adventure for children. Families can enjoy a refreshing morning surrounded by the trees that have begun to change color and the clear highland air.
■Planned Schedule Image
<Day 1>
15:00 Check-in
16:00 Play at Tenku Slider, Kids Playfield and Little Forest Kids Area
17:00 Stop by the Picture Book Library "Forest and Sky Book Journey" at the Guest Lounge
18:00 BBQ on the room terrace
19:00 "Starry Night Picture Book Theater" at the restaurant, followed by a visit to the Tenku (Sky) Spa
21;00 Go to bed while reading the Good Night Picture Book Kit at the villa
<Day 2>
08:00 Breakfast in your room
09:00 Path in the Sky: A stroll to discover autumn
12:00 Check out, followed by lunch
12:30 Outing to Asama Great Falls
13:30 Visit Moose Forest "Karuizawa Picture Book Forest Museum" (optional)
16:00 Return home
■Autumn Book Villa Stay Plan
Lodging Period: September 15 (Monday) to November 30 (Sunday), 2025
Included: room charge, breakfast and dinner, "Good night picture book kit", "Little autumn specimen box", service charge, and accommodation tax.
Nippon Television Network Corporation's "Hirunandes! "~ASAMA KUZANBO was featured on Adult Women's Trip in Kita-Karuizawa~
The Japanese archipelago is still hot.
This time, we will travel to Kita-Karuizawa in Gunma Prefecture, about 30 minutes by car from Karuizawa.
At an altitude of 1,000 to 1,400 meters, higher than Karuizawa, the average temperature in September is about 19 degrees Celsius.
Asako and Kayoko take you to Kita-Karuizawa, where you can enjoy the beautiful view of nature and gourmet food.
Enjoy a special moment in a private villa overlooking Mt. Please watch the program.
program identificationNippon Television Network Corporation "Hirunandes! Broadcasting time and dateTuesday, September 2, 11:55am-13:55pm
For more information on the Kita-Karuizawa version of the "Otona Girls' Trip," please visitthis way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker) ▶︎
■Chateau Waimarama and seasonal delicacies of Shinshu and Gunma.
Lodging Period: Friday, August 1, 2025 - Friday, November 28, 2025
Room type: Polaris Presidential Suite
Included: room charge, breakfast, course dinner, full bottle of 2015 Cagirina Merlot, service charge, and hotel tax.
ASAMA KUZANBO, a villa resort in Kita-Karuizawa, will start offering the "Otsukimi(Moon Viewing Festival) Afternoon Wine Plan" on September 1, 2012, with a spectacular view of Mount Asama. In addition to the rare Chateau Waimarama rosé wine and cheese from the local Kitakaruizawa cheese farm, guests can also enjoy moonlight yoga and star gazing to add color to their autumn evening.
Chateau Waimarama Rosé to be enjoyed at aperitif time
Chateau Waimarama is a rare fine wine grown by traditional hand in the vineyards overlooking the Tukituki River in Hawke's Bay, North Island, New Zealand. From this wine, which is served in the world's top hotels and restaurants, this plan selects the pale cherry color "vin rosé (half bottle)". This dry rosé wine with fresh berry and citrus nuances can be enjoyed with a special pairing while enjoying the view of Mount Asama at dusk.
■Otsukimi plate with cheese from Kita-Karuizawa and fruit from Shinshu as the moon
The menu includes homemade cured cheese in the shape of the moon by Kitakaruizawa Cheese Farm, a dairy farm established 64 years ago in Kitakaruizawa, along with a special plate of Italian prosciutto, Shinshu-grown Shine Muscat and other autumnal fruits.
■Glamping dinner by moonlight with the famous moon and the bounty of Shinshu and Gunma
For dinner, you can enjoy "Seiro Steamed Shabu of Local Brand Pork" in your room, which includes cabbage from Tsumakoi and three kinds of Gunma brand pork steamed in a seiro (a Japanese cooking method in which a pot of water is steamed in a pot over a stove). For dessert, we serve tsukimi dango (dumplings), and for children, a special tsukimi hamburger steak and tsukimi sweets for dogs are also included. Please relax and enjoy the view of Mt. Asama and the silhouette of the moon from the wooden deck.
■Special evening activities under the full moon and starry sky
01 Jazz Bar on a starry moonlit night (Silver Week only)
A "moonlit minibar" with jazz music echoing through the restaurant. A special hojicha latte served in a magical space with flickering candles and the sound of an automatic piano. We offer a moon-viewing experience that will fill your heart on an autumn night.
02 Moonlight Yoga
A special yoga session limited to one room per day, held in the villa under the clear night sky and surrounded by moonlight. The 45-minute session, centered on stretching, deep breathing exercises, and meditation, will reset your body and mind. The gentle feel of the night breeze and the sound of insects provide background music, allowing you to experience the sensation of becoming one with nature. After the session, you will be guided to a comfortable sleep.
03 The Way of the Sky with a Star Guide Moon Viewing Celestial Observation Tour
The Asama Plateau, with its clear air, is an attractive place for star gazing, beautiful moons, and shooting stars. With a star guide, visitors can observe stars through a telescope on the "Sky Path," a walkway with a clear view of the stars. You can enjoy the spectacular celestial shows that change with the seasons, such as the crater of the moon, the autumn quadrilateral "Pegasus," and the Andromeda Galaxy.
During this period, the dog run in front of the restaurant will be lit up under the theme of "Fifteen Nights" and "Long Autumn Nights. Please enjoy the fantastic night with the silhouette of Mt.
■Autumn Otsukimi Afternoon Wine Plan
Lodging Period: September 1 (Monday) to November 30 (Sunday), 2025
Included: "moon viewing afternoon wine privilege" (a half bottle of Chateau Waimarama "vin rosé" * and a moon viewing plate), room charge, breakfast and dinner, service charge, and accommodation tax.
ASAMA KUZANBO presents "ASAMA KUZANBO presents Autumn Foliage Concert with Dogs," featuring dog-loving violinists, will be held on October 18 (Sat.) and 19 (Sun.) for two days only, following this spring.
The setting will be the restaurant terrace "天空柁イニング" decorated in Halloween style. There will be a "one" drink gift for all attendees and their dogs. We recently invited a special guest, Ms. IMALU, a dog lover, for a talk event at the New Green Concert on June 29. We will welcome Shinya Tomonaga and Megumi Iwama, a couple from the Bachelor Japan series, and their dog, Claire, as special guests for this performance as well, and they will talk about their dogs with violinist Momoko Arai!
Enjoy the rich harmony of the ensemble with your dog or children while viewing Mt. Asama and the colorful autumn leaves.
ASAMA KUZANBO presents Autumn Foliage Concert with Dogs (Supported by Kita-Karuizawa Tourist Association)
(1) Saturday, October 18, 2025 Evening performance: Doors open at 16:00, Concert begins at 16:30
(2) Sunday, October 19, 2025 (Daytime performance) Doors open at 11:00, Concert begins at 11:30
30 minutes for performance, 10 minutes for special guest discussion
Location: Terrace of the restaurant "Tenku Dining" in ASAMA KUZANBO
Capacity: 30 persons each (*Reservations will be given priority on a first-come, first-served basis)
Instrumentation: Piano Trio
Performing Artists: Momoko Arai (violin), Dai Sakakibara (piano/keyboards), Kohei Morita (double bass)
Special Guests: Shinya Tomonaga, Megumi Iwama, and her dog, Claire
Benefit: "One" drink for each participating customer and his/her dog
Fee: Adults 1,500 yen (tax included) Children under elementary school age and dogs free *ASAMA KUZANBO guests free
Reservation Method:Dedicated Reservation Pagefrom (livepocket membership registration is required)
Reservation start date: Thursday, September 11, 2025 11:00~.
Fees will be donated to CAHSA, an animal welfare organization.
CAHSA is an abbreviation for Companion Animal Health Support Association, an organization that promotes and educates people about the knowledge necessary for people and domestic animals to live together in harmony based on the spirit of animal welfare. Its main activities include shelter management for shelter dogs and cats, finding foster parents, and educational activities for breeders and pet stores.