About Karuizawa
Karuizawa is a popular resort town located in the very east of Nagano prefecture.Located at an elevation of between 900 and 1000m, Karuizawa remains relatively cool even in the summer months, making it a popular spot for escaping the heat of the cities.
Originally a post town of the Eastern Nagano Nakasendo route, Karuizawa provided weary travellers during the Edo period with a place to rest before they crossed the Usui mountain pass. Now it is more famous as a summer retreat with its many impressive villas and stylish shopping areas.But throughout its history, Karuizawa has always been surrounded by abundant nature, from the volcanic slopes of Mt. Asama to the stretching forests in the east.
This abundant nature is home to many unique species such as the revered Japanese serow and the elusive Asiatic black bear.
What's happening in Karuizawa?
Bear conservation
Nature tours
Picchio Visitor Center & Cafe Terrace
Recent News
Did you know?
Some of the rocks in Karuizawa are very light and originate from when Mt. Asama erupted over 200 years ago. In Japanese they are called "karui ishi" which could be where the name of the town originated from.
Discover Karuizawa
Find out more about the Karuizawa area
Sit back and enjoy the tranquility of nature
Recent News
23 November, 2023
Rela, do your best! The great work that will leave behind the next generation of bear dogs begins.
Learn More
Access Karuizawa
Find out how to get to Karuizawa
Public Transportation
Seibu Kanko Bus Departs from the North Exit of Karuizawa station. Get on the bus bound for “Karuizawa Eigyosho / Kusatsu Onsen” and get off at the “Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-yu” bus station. 1-minute walk from the bus station. Bus fare is ¥470 one-way. Please refer to this site.Seibu Kanko Bus Stops
Shinano Railway
Get off the train at Naka-Karuizawa station, which is one station from Karuizawa station (approximately 4 minutes). From there, it is a 17-minute walk or 5 minutes by taxi. Train fare is ¥230 one-way. Official site.Taxi
- Masuya Kotsu 0267-45-5223
- Karuizawa Kanko Taxi 0267-45-5408
- Asama Kanko Taxi 0267-45-5264
Where to Park
Parking Fees
- Weekdays
free of charge (with the exception of the fee-charging periods below)
- Weekends and holidays
fee-charging
*Fee-charging periods: during the Golden Week holiday from late April to early May, Mid-July to 31st August, 28th December to 3rd January.
Fee Charging
- First 30 minutes
Free of charge
- After 30 minutes
¥300 per hour (maximum ¥3,000)
Please check the parking lot usage regulations (Japanese only.)
Customers who spend a total of over ¥2,000 in each store (Tombo-no-yu, Picchio, Sonmin-Shokudo, HARUNIRE Terrace) can extend their free parking in the parking lot by up to 120 minutes. Please present your parking coupon in the store. In the event of a lost parking coupon, we request a ¥3,000 lost parking coupon parking fee.
How can we help?
Do you need help booking a tour? Have a question about our tours? Here are some ways you can get in contact with our team!We’d be happy to assist in any way we can and normally reply within 2days.
| Tel | +81(0)267-45-7777 |
|---|---|
| info@m.picchio.co.jp |
Send an inquiry
How can I help?
Picchio aims for this coexistence and is taking actions to make humans and bears able to live together while maintaining a moderate distance.
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