St. Paul's Catholic Church Karuizawa
A serene architectural gem by Antonin Raymond, known for its unique shingle roof and peaceful ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, find peace
St. Paul's Catholic Church Karuizawa
Best Time
Avoid crowds, find peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene architectural gem by Antonin Raymond, known for its unique shingle roof and peaceful ambiance.
"Charming, peaceful spot with quaint wooden architecture and a serene ambiance."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this place of worship.
📸 Photography Friendly
Capture the church's beauty, especially its unique roof.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antonin Raymond's Architectural Gem
Main Sanctuary
Admire the distinctive shingle roof and minimalist design by renowned architect Antonin Raymond. A true masterpiece.
Peaceful Interior
Inside the Church
Experience a solemn and intimate atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection and prayer. Simple yet beautiful.
Scenic Surroundings
Church Grounds
Enjoy the tranquil setting amidst nature, offering a serene escape. Beautiful in all seasons, especially autumn.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Embrace the Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this place of worship.
📸 Photography Friendly
Capture the church's beauty, especially its unique roof.
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Embrace the serene ambiance for a moment of peace.
⏰ Check Mass Times
Attend a service if you wish; masses are held regularly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this place of worship.
📸 Photography Friendly
Capture the church's beauty, especially its unique roof.
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Embrace the serene ambiance for a moment of peace.
⏰ Check Mass Times
Attend a service if you wish; masses are held regularly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find St. Paul's Catholic Church Karuizawa to be a charming and peaceful spot, praised for its simple yet beautiful architecture and serene ambiance. It's a popular, albeit small, attraction for quiet reflection and photography, particularly noted for its unique shingle roof. Some find it very small and suggest it's a brief stop rather than a major destination.
"Karuizawa St. Paul’s Catholic Church is a charming, peaceful spot surrounded by nature. Its quaint wooden architecture and serene ambiance make it a lovely place for quiet reflection or a short visit. Though small, the setting feels sacred and timeless, often enhanced by the sound of birds or soft sunlight filtering through the trees.
It’s also a popular stop for photos, especially in autumn or winter. A beautiful example of simple spiritual architecture in a scenic resort town."
Thanapoom Wimonsopa
"I really loved the inside of this church. It was simple yet beautiful. It felt solemn & intimate. A nice church to visit when in the area."
Aibi Y.
"Nice and quiet Catholic Church.
We were there for a Japanese weekend mass. The mass was celebrated in Japanese but with google translate, we are able to understand 70% of the homily.
Mass are available in following timing:
Sunday: 9:00 - 10:00
Saturday: 18:00 - 19:00
Weekday: 7:00 - 8:00"
Christina Llq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is accessible by car or public transport. From Karuizawa Station, you can take a local bus or taxi. It's a popular stop for those exploring the Karuizawa area.
Limited parking may be available, but it's advisable to check in advance or consider public transportation due to its popularity as a scenic spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church grounds and interior is typically free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The church is generally open during daylight hours, but specific times for visiting the interior may vary. It's best to check locally or during mass times.
Yes, masses are held regularly, including Sundays at 9:00 AM, Saturdays at 6:00 PM, and weekdays at 7:00 AM. Masses are primarily in Japanese.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside, but it's always respectful to be mindful of those praying or attending services.
The unique shingle roof is a highlight for photographers. The surrounding natural scenery also offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially in autumn.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
A visit is typically short, often around 15-30 minutes, as the church is quite small. It's a peaceful stop rather than a lengthy attraction.
The church was designed by Antonin Raymond and is noted for its distinctive shingle roof and modern architectural elements.
Absolutely. Its serene ambiance and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and a peaceful break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer light. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography during services. 🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
+1The interior of the church mirrors its exterior's understated elegance. It's a space designed for quiet contemplation, with a solemn yet intimate atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the beauty found in its simplicity, a testament to Raymond's design philosophy. The church's construction and design have earned it recognition and make it a point of interest for architecture enthusiasts visiting the area.
A Place of Worship and Community
The church's serene setting also makes it a popular spot for quiet reflection. Many visitors find solace in its peaceful ambiance, enhanced by the surrounding nature. Whether attending a service or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, the church offers a welcoming and sacred space. Its small size contributes to an intimate feel, fostering a sense of connection for those who visit.
Social
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