Karuizawa

Karuizawa is a mountain resort town near Nagano that's famed for its opportunities for outdoor recreation such as cycling, hiking, golfing and, in the winter, skiing and hot spring baths. The old town centre of Kyu Karuizawa is a quaint walkable lane filled with locally owned boutique stores as well as arts and crafts shops. Hiking up Mount Asama allows you to explore an active volcano. Karuizawa Shiraito Falls is an untouched natural green space where you’ll see a small cascading waterfall emptying into a mountain pool. Kumoba Pond is famous for its brilliantly coloured autumn foliage.

Harunire Terrace offers a riverside deck where you can explore local shops and delicious independent restaurants. For history and photo opportunities, take a walk to the 17th-century stone arch bridge Megane-bashi. The Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa is a contemporary art museum with elegantly tended gardens. For relaxation, self-catered meals and family fun, Yukawa Furusato Park offers green space, picnic facilities and a kids’ playground.