Kyu-Karuizawa

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Kyu-Karuizawa (旧軽井沢, Kyū-Karuizawa) is a charming town with a rich history, once serving as a post town along the Nakasendo Route that connected Kyoto with Edo (now Tokyo) during the Edo Period. Today, it is the central hub of the Karuizawa resort area, offering visitors a perfect blend of nature and relaxation. With its pleasant atmosphere, the town features chic restaurants, cozy cafes, and tree-lined residential areas made up of beautiful holiday villas.

Besides its peaceful charm, Kyu-Karuizawa is home to excellent shopping spots like the Prince Shopping Plaza and the Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza. Visitors can also enjoy various leisure activities, including cycling around town, golfing, or bowling. Whether you're looking to unwind or explore, Kyu-Karuizawa has something for everyone.

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You can easily explore Kyu-Karuizawa by bicycle, with rental shops near Karuizawa Station and the Karuizawa Ginza offering bikes for about 1000 yen per day. For those who enjoy walking, the town is also great for a stroll. It takes just under an hour to walk from Karuizawa Station to the Former Mikasa Hotel, with several attractions along the way.

Buses run frequently between Karuizawa Station and the Karuizawa Ginza (5-10 minutes, 150-160 yen one way). Kusakaru Kotsu buses also connect to the Shiraito Waterfall and Kusatsu Onsen (25 minutes, 720 yen), while Seibu buses go to Naka-Karuizawa.