Perfect Kaluzeva Day Trip from Tokyo: Complete

When landing in Tokyo in the summer, heat and humidity can even make it short of a walk. That’s why so many people head to the mountains, and one of the most popular views is Karuze. Since the late 19th century, the capital of Hokuriku Shinkansen has been a favorite retreat. It offers crisp mountain air, quiet forests and the charm of the old world with modern comfort.

You don’t need to stay overnight to enjoy it either. Karuizawa uses trains frequently and can see a lot in a compact area, which is perfect for a day trip. From quaint shopping streets to waterfalls, art galleries and export shopping malls, it’s a refreshing escape from Tokyo.

Morning: Wandering Old Carulze

Start your day on the old Karuizawa Ginza Street, the town’s historic main road. This pedestrian-friendly stretch is lined with cafes, bakeries, jam shops and boutiques. Feel the world away from the busy streets of Tokyo, relaxing at the speed and peeking into the background of trees on the hills.

Stopped by French bakery, a rural institution John Lennon was attracted to the summer when he lived in Karuizawa. Another must-try is the region’s famous jam, sold in small jars in stores like Sawaya Jam. You will also find souvenirs reflect the region’s reputation as a summer retreat – hand-carved wooden food, exquisite ceramics and seasonal fruit products.

If you want to enjoy more views, rent a bike near the station and then cruise the tree-lined back street. The wide, quiet roads and cool breeze make cycling especially pleasant here.

Early Morning: Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Falls is about 20 minutes from central Karuizawa, one of the most photogenic attractions in the area. Unlike a single cascade, this 3-meter-high and 70-meter-high water wall consists of countless thin streams of spring water that gently drips into the transparent pool below. The summer is surrounded by lush forests and the autumn colors are blazing colors, which is a refreshing and peaceful place.

Just a few steps from the bus stop, you can easily adapt to a day trip. The cool mist on the waterfall naturally gets rid of Tokyo’s sticky heat.

Noon: Karuze Church

Karuze is not just shopping and scenery, it is also known for its amazing churches, which reflects the town’s history as an international retreat. These churches scattered in the forest, combining European influence with Japanese simplicity, and even if you are ungodly, it is worth a quiet stop.

The Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Church was built in 1895 and is the oldest in town. It was founded by Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw, whose appearance turned Karuizawa into a summer resort for foreign residents. Surrounded by trees, this simple wooden building remains a symbol of the beginning of the town’s internationalization.

Nearby, Karuizawa Kogen Church offers a more modern style. It was originally built in 1921 and became a hub for artists and writers of the Taisho and Showa eras. Its open light-colored design makes it a peaceful space for quick rest between walks.

The most architecturally stunning thing about the Christian Sanctuaries in Karuizawa is the Stone Church (Uchimura Kanzo Memorial), designed by American architect Kendrick Kellogg in the 1980s. It was built in an interlocking arc of stone and glass, and it felt like it grew organically from the earth. Inside, sunlight filters through the cracks of the stone walls, creating a quiet, almost spiritual atmosphere that attracts architectural fans and admirers.

Lunch: Western-style local flavor

Karuizawa’s dining scene reflects its history, an international resort where both Japanese and foreign tourists are seeking a breathing respite. For traditional choices, please select Kavakami Rivera popular soba restaurant that offers handmade soba noodles that tastes especially good on the mountain. Another great option is SavamulaThis is a bakery and restaurant with a rich wooden interior where you can enjoy exquisite pastries, delicious pizza and burgers.

Afternoon: Shopping or Art

After lunch you can go in one of two directions – shopping or culture.

For retail therapy, go Prince Karuze shopping malllocated next to the station, a sprawling exit shopping mall. With more than 200 stores, it is one of Japan’s largest export destinations. You’ll find everything from international luxury brands to local specialty stores. The outdoor layout with lakes, dog-friendly walking trails, food trucks and a place with bean bags and hammocks make it more relaxing than a typical shopping mall.

If you want to spend your afternoon in art, go Guangzhisen Zhu Museum. The minimalist architecture designed by award-winning architect Ryue Nishizawa is almost as eye-catching as the work in which it is located. Inside, you will encounter a large waterfall painting of glow toothbrush (Traditional Japanese painting). The tranquil environment creates an immersive experience that responds to the landscape outside.

Night: A sweet ending

Put it down with dessert or coffee before returning to Tokyo. Malushan Coffee He is a baker born in Kawakawa and worships all over Japan. Its flagship café in town is a cozy place to enjoy skilled coffee before heading home.

If you like sweet things, try Mikado CoffeeRich cheesecake or soft food. Both are the ideal way to see the sunset painted mountains while having a perfect way to visit.

Arrive at Karuze

Karuizawa is one of the easiest escapes in Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, take Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station – the journey takes about 70 minutes. Once there, most attractions can be reached by renting a bicycle, a local bus or a short taxi. For Shiraito Falls, buses depart regularly from the station area.

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