Old Karuizawa
A charming cobblestone street lined with unique boutiques, artisan crafts, and delightful cafes in a picturesque resort town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Old Karuizawa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming cobblestone street lined with unique boutiques, artisan crafts, and delightful cafes in a picturesque resort town.
"Cute old street with a plethora of interesting stores selling craft made from the regional forest."
Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main path to find unique artisan shops and hidden cafes. You might discover your favorite spot! :sparkles:
Budget for Souvenirs
Unique crafts and local delicacies are available, but prices can be high. Plan your spending accordingly. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Main shopping street
A charming cobblestone street lined with unique boutiques, artisan crafts, and delightful cafes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Artisan Craft Stores
Scattered throughout Ginza Street and side alleys
Discover handcrafted treasures made from local forest materials. Explore side streets for hidden gems.
Charming Cafes and Restaurants
Along Ginza Street
Indulge in local flavors and unique treats at the many inviting cafes and eateries. A perfect spot to refuel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm: Timing is Key
Budgeting for Boutiques and Bites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main path to find unique artisan shops and hidden cafes. You might discover your favorite spot! :sparkles:
Budget for Souvenirs
Unique crafts and local delicacies are available, but prices can be high. Plan your spending accordingly. :moneybag:
Enjoy the City Vibe
Perfect for a sunny day stroll, soak in the atmosphere of this charming resort town. :city_sunrise:
Consider a Weekday Visit
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, opt for a weekday trip. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main path to find unique artisan shops and hidden cafes. You might discover your favorite spot! :sparkles:
Budget for Souvenirs
Unique crafts and local delicacies are available, but prices can be high. Plan your spending accordingly. :moneybag:
Enjoy the City Vibe
Perfect for a sunny day stroll, soak in the atmosphere of this charming resort town. :city_sunrise:
Consider a Weekday Visit
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, opt for a weekday trip. :calendar:
Try Local Treats
Sample street food like gohei mochi or unique ice cream flavors. :icecream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Old Karuizawa for its charming atmosphere, unique shops, and delightful cafes, making it a picturesque spot for sightseeing and enjoying a relaxed vibe. While many appreciate the quaint streets and artisan crafts, some find the prices for souvenirs and food to be on the higher side.
"The style of the city is good!
Many stores and restaurant in the street, but, it is not that cheap, and also the souvenir is also not cheap. Many local japanese and chinese come here. I saw many good car around. It also many parking car around the street.
It is good for just sightseeing, enjoy the city vibes on sunny summer."
ridho ardhi syaiful
"Cute old street with a plethora of interesting stores selling craft made from the regional forest. There are some real gems if you're willing to explore the side streets/alleys."
zfunk monk
"The most popular shipping street in Karuizawa. This is a must visit spot here. Tourists can buy souvenirs and foods here."
Antony Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa Station. From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Old Karuizawa Ginza Street. Some visitors also opt for the 'Aka Bus' (Red Bus) which connects various tourist spots in Karuizawa.
Yes, it's definitely possible to explore Karuizawa without a car. The main attractions like Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, Kumoba Pond, and Shiraito Waterfall are accessible by local buses or taxis. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option for getting around.
There are several parking lots available around Old Karuizawa Ginza Street. Some are free, while others are paid. It's advisable to look for signs indicating parking areas upon arrival.
Walking is the best way to explore Old Karuizawa Ginza Street itself. For reaching other attractions like Shiraito Waterfall or Kumoba Pond, local buses are a convenient option. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, the 'Aka Bus' (Red Bus) is a seasonal route that connects popular spots like the萬平ホテル (Manpei Hotel) and Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, making it easy to access key areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Karuizawa Ginza Street is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely stroll along the street and browse the shops.
Shop hours can vary, but generally, most shops in Old Karuizawa Ginza Street are open from around 10 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM. Some cafes and restaurants may have slightly different hours. It's best to check individual shop websites if you have specific places in mind.
While the street itself is free, some specific attractions like museums or gardens in the wider Karuizawa area might have entrance fees. For example, churches like the Stone Church or Karuizawa Kogen Church are generally free to enter, but donations are appreciated.
While there aren't specific 'ticketed' tours for Old Karuizawa Ginza Street itself, you can find guided walking tours or day trip packages that include this area as part of a larger Karuizawa itinerary.
Yes, Old Karuizawa is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, autumn boasts stunning foliage, and winter provides a serene, snowy landscape. Each season offers a unique charm.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street is known for its charming boutiques selling artisan crafts, local souvenirs, fashion items, and unique gifts. You'll find everything from handmade ceramics to regional forest products.
Souvenirs and items in Old Karuizawa can be on the pricier side, reflecting the upscale nature of the resort town. However, there are many unique and high-quality items available if you're willing to explore.
You can find a variety of local treats, including gohei mochi, apple ice cream, sesame donuts, and spicy hot dogs. Many cafes also offer delicious pastries and local juices.
Yes, Old Karuizawa offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find places serving local specialties, Western cuisine, and more.
Absolutely! The street is famous for its artisan craft stores selling items made from regional materials. Exploring the side streets can lead to some truly special finds.
📸 📸 Photography & Vibe
Old Karuizawa has a charming, relaxed, and somewhat upscale atmosphere. The cobblestone streets, half-timbered buildings, and surrounding nature create a picturesque and peaceful environment. 
The entire Ginza Street is photogenic with its unique architecture and shop fronts. Look for charming details, colorful displays, and the quaint cobblestone path. The surrounding greenery also adds to the scenic beauty.
Yes, Old Karuizawa is an excellent destination for a day trip from Tokyo or other nearby cities. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the shops, cafes, and enjoying the ambiance.
Yes, nearby attractions include Kumoba Pond, known for its scenic beauty, and Shiraito Waterfall, a stunning natural cascade. These are often included in day trip itineraries.
Its appeal lies in its unique blend of European-style architecture, charming boutiques, delicious food, and the serene natural beauty of the Karuizawa region, making it a popular resort town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to navigate with children, and the picturesque setting provides plenty of visual interest. Consider visiting during warmer months for a more comfortable outing. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of the shops and the open street provide enough engagement for a few hours. For longer excursions, nearby attractions like Shiraito Waterfall offer opportunities for outdoor exploration that children might appreciate.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
+1You can easily spend hours browsing unique craft stores, enjoying a quiet coffee at a cafe, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The town's reputation as a resort destination also means it's generally safe and welcoming for individuals exploring on their own.
📸 Photographers
Pay attention to the details: the unique signage, the seasonal decorations, and the interplay of light and shadow on the buildings. Exploring the side streets can reveal even more photogenic nooks and crannies. Don't forget to capture the surrounding natural beauty, especially during autumn when the foliage is at its peak.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
The street's ambiance is often described as quaint and European-inspired, making it a popular spot for both local Japanese tourists and international visitors. Many creators highlight the joy of exploring the various boutiques, which often feature items made from regional forest materials, adding a touch of local craftsmanship to the shopping experience.
While the main street is a focal point, don't hesitate to explore the smaller side streets and alleys. These often hide even more unique artisan shops and cozy cafes, offering a chance to find hidden gems and experience a more intimate side of Old Karuizawa.
Culinary Delights and Local Flavors
Beyond the street food, numerous cafes and restaurants dot the area, providing opportunities to enjoy a leisurely meal. Whether you're craving a light lunch, a cup of coffee with a pastry, or a more substantial dinner, you'll find options to suit your palate. Many establishments focus on fresh, local ingredients, offering a true taste of the Nagano region.
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Karuizawa as a whole is known for its high-end restaurants. While Old Karuizawa Ginza Street leans towards charming cafes and eateries, the broader resort town offers a sophisticated culinary landscape.
Seasonal Beauty and Year-Round Appeal
Autumn transforms Karuizawa into a spectacle of vibrant colors as the leaves change, creating a breathtaking backdrop for exploring the streets and surrounding natural landscapes. This is a particularly popular time for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Winter brings a serene, snowy ambiance to Old Karuizawa, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting. While some outdoor activities might be limited, the quiet beauty of the snow-covered town provides a unique and tranquil experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit