- Karuizawa was the site of the first-ever Olympic event to be held in two different nations, hosting the equestrian events in 1964 while the main games took place in Tokyo.
- The town's development was spurred by Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw, who established the first summer residence here in 1888 after discovering the climate resembled his homeland.
- It remains one of the few places in Japan that held the unique status of a diplomatic summer capital, with various embassies maintaining seasonal residences during the early 20th century.
- The local geography is shaped by the volcanic activity of Mount Asama, which historically dictated the town's agricultural limitations and forced its transition into a resort-focused economy.
- Karuizawa is the only location in the world to host both Summer and Winter Olympic events, having served as a venue for curling during the 1998 Winter Olympics.
About Karuizawa, Nagano
Karuizawa is a premier highland resort town located at the base of the active volcano Mount Asama, famous for its temperate climate that attracts visitors seeking refuge from Japan's humid summers. The town is defined by a blend of Western architectural influence and dense forest landscapes, exemplified by the elegant Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church and the modern artistic vision of the Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa. Nature enthusiasts frequently gather at the tranquil Kumoba Pond, while the nearby Shiraito Waterfall showcases the region's distinct volcanic hydrology. Its history as a mountain retreat began in the late 19th century, leading to a unique legacy of aristocratic villas and sophisticated cultural sites.
Highlights of Karuizawa, Nagano
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
A three-meter-high, seventy-meter-wide curtain of spring water flows over a volcanic rock face.
Temples
This structure uses organic stone and glass architecture designed to mimic the natural landscape.
Museums
The museum features a series of massive waterfall paintings by Hiroshi Senju displayed in a light-filled, minimalist space.
Natural attractions
The walking path circling the water offers reflection views of the forest canopy and local birdlife.
Temples
Known for its unique architectural curves, this church is tucked into a dense, forested sanctuary.
Temples
Constructed in 1935, this wooden church represents the town's long history as a gathering place for international visitors.
Places of interest
This heritage building provides a glimpse into the opulent Meiji-era lifestyle of Japan's elite.
Places of interest
The platform offers a panoramic vantage point over the Gunma and Nagano border landscapes.
Top things to do in Karuizawa, Nagano
The 208 highest-rated places in Karuizawa, Nagano, ranked by travellers.
1
Places of interest
Shiraito Waterfall is a 3-meter tall and 70-meter wide curtain-like cascade located in the volcanic highlands of Karuiza...
2
Historical places
Megane Bridge, or Usui No. 3 Bridge, is a massive brick arch bridge completed in 1892 as part of the now-defunct Shin-et...
3
Parks
Onioshidashi Volcanic Park features a landscape formed by the massive 1783 eruption of Mount Asama, which deposited jagg...
4
Museums
Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park is an open-air museum located at the site of the former Yokokawa train station in Gunma...
5
Amusement parks
Karuizawa Toy Kingdom is a multi-themed amusement park in Tsumagoi, Gunma, designed specifically for children and famili...
6
Temples
Stone Church, located in Karuizawa, is an architectural landmark designed by American architect Kendrick Kellogg, built...
7
Museums
The Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa is a private institution dedicated to the large-scale waterfall paintings of artist H...
8
Temples
Karuizawa Kogen Church is a historic wooden chapel situated within the Hoshino area of Karuizawa, Nagano, originally est...
9
Parks
Yukawa Furusato Park is a spacious municipal park in Karuizawa featuring a large lawn and extensive wooden playground eq...
10
Natural attractions
Kumoba Pond, locally known as Swan Lake, is a spring-fed body of water located in the Karuizawa resort town. The pond is...
11
Places of interest
Yamba Mihōdai Observation Deck provides a panoramic vantage point over the Yamba Dam and the artificially created Lake A...
12
Temples
Karuizawa St. Paul's Catholic Church is a prominent timber-framed chapel designed by the renowned Czech-American archite...
13
Places of interest
Karuizawa Lake Garden is a sprawling 10-hectare landscape park centered around a large man-made lake designed to mimic t...
14
Parks
Karuizawa Kazakoshi Park is a multi-purpose sports complex in Nagano Prefecture featuring international-standard curling...
15
Natural attractions
Karuizawa Snow Park is a family-oriented winter recreation facility situated on the northern slopes of Mount Asama. The...
16
Places of interest
The Historic Mikasa Hotel is a three-story wooden structure completed in 1906, often referred to as the 'Rokumeikan of K...
17
Museums
Karuizawa New Art Museum is a private institution focusing on post-war Japanese contemporary art and international moder...
18
Parks
Yagasaki Park is a publicly managed park located in the town center of Karuizawa, Nagano, serving as a recreational area...
19
Parks
Karuizawa Sengataki Hot Spring is a natural thermal facility located within the expansive Karuizawa Prince Hotel resort...
20
Places of interest
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Temples
Kanbara Kannon-dō Temple serves as a memorial to the victims of the massive 1783 eruption of Mount Asama. Following the...
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Temples
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Museums
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Natural attractions
27
Museums
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Places of interest
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Places of interest
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Places of interest
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Karuizawa, Nagano on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Karuizawa, Nagano
July to August for the mild mountain climate, or October for vibrant autumn foliage.
2-3 days to explore the town’s forest trails, museums, and historic church architecture.
The town is best navigated via rental bicycle, local buses, or taxis, as primary sites are spread across forested areas.
Stay near Karuizawa Station for easy access to transport, or choose the Old Karuizawa area for historic atmosphere and proximity to villa-lined lanes.
Expensive; the area is a high-end resort destination known for luxury accommodations and upscale boutique shopping.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 208 curated attractions in and around Karuizawa, Nagano, ranked by traveller ratings.
Shiraito Waterfall is the highest-rated place to visit in Karuizawa, Nagano right now.
The largest category is places of interest, with 58 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Toshima, Osaka, Kyoto.
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