Enjoy scenic retail therapy at a sprawling outdoor outlet mall just steps from Karuizawa Station, with beautiful gardens, a lake view, and a great selection of international and local brands.

Perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping (and a few spontaneous finds)!

Recommended Time: 2–4 hours

Wander down this quaint, historic street lined with cozy cafes, artisan shops, and local boutiques.

Don’t miss trying the famous Karuizawa jam — it makes a lovely souvenir (or a sweet treat for yourself)!

Recommended Time: 1-2 hours

Among the numerous church buildings in Karuizawa, the most iconic is St. Paul's Catholic Church. The symmetrical triangular roof adds to its beauty, creating an ambiance that feels distinctly European.

Just off the path from Old Karuizawa Ginza Street towards Church Street, it’s worth a look.

Known for its beautiful reflections of trees and sky, Kumoba Pond is a serene spot perfect for a peaceful walk or a few dreamy photos.

In May, you’ll see the fresh green colors of spring beginning to flourish.

Recommended Time: 30–60 minutes

Here you find stunning examples of architecture harmonizing with nature — a must-visit for anyone who loves a quiet, mystical atmosphere.

The Stone Church, in particular, looks like it came straight from a fairytale.

Recommended Time: 1–2 hours

A gentle, dreamy waterfall tucked into the woods.

Perfect for a short hike or a nature escape (and it’s even more beautiful surrounded by fresh spring greenery).

Recommended time: 1 hour

Try your hand at crafting your own glasswork — from delicate cups to sparkling ornaments.

The instructors are friendly, and beginners are welcome!

Duration: About 45 minutes

Reservation: Recommended

Roll up your sleeves and learn the art of making traditional buckwheat soba noodles!

After kneading, rolling, and cutting the dough, you’ll get to enjoy your handmade soba in a warm, cozy setting.

Duration: About 1–1.5 hours

Reservation: Required

Several local studios around Karuizawa offer easy, walk-in craft workshops where you can make pottery, leather goods, or dried flower art — perfect for a little handmade souvenir.

Some popular places include:

Karuizawa Craft Village (pottery, jewelry)

Atelier Watanabe (leather keychains, wallets)

Karuizawa is filled with beautiful cafes and bakeries tucked into the woods. This place has quaint little shops like HARVEST NAGAI FARM, known for its Italian-style ice cream, Maruyama Coffee, Kawakami-an soba noodle shop, Murabito Shokudo (Villager's Cafeteria), and Sawamura Bakery. There are also stores offering wooden furniture and Nordic-style goods, creating a pleasantly laid-back mountain resort atmosphere that encourage you to linger.

Beyond its famed churches, Karuizawa boasts a rich array of art museums, with Senju Hiroshi Museum of Art as one of the most noteworthy. The museum design allows visitors to appreciate both the artworks and the outdoor scenery simultaneously, transforming the entire museum experience into a work of art.

Recommended time: 1-2 hours

One of the best ways to experience Karuizawa is on two wheels!

Rent a bicycle and glide through lush woods, hidden chapels, and scenic trails at your own pace.

Tip: Many hotels offer bicycle rentals!