Karuizawa , Japan

Japanese Serow Watching Tour

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About this experience

The Japanese serow is revered as a national monument species in Japan and has been granted protected status. With only 4 serow species in the world, this creature is very unique and worth a glimpse at least once. Your experienced guide can take you on a hike to a spot favoured by Japanese serow and give you a really good chance to see one. Throughout the hike, there is also the opportunity to see other wildlife too such as deer and a variety of bird species. The surroundings are also interesting as sunlight dappled forests give way to swooping volcanic valleys. It is a fulfilling outdoor experience with the chance to see some really cool wildlife.

Available options

Japanese Serow Watching Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

The "Kazan-kan" mountain cabin is the highest point of this tour's trek (~1980m above sea level). From here there will more chances to search the surrounding hillsides for Japanese serow. There is also a well maintained toilet which can be used for a small fee (around 100 yen).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Picchio Visitor Center, near the Hoshino Onsen “Tombo-no-Yu” hot spring. If coming from Karuizawa Station, take the Seibu Kanko Bus bound for “Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-Yu” and get off at that stop, then walk about 13 minutes.
You can also take a taxi (about 10 minutes from Karuizawa Station).

About Karuizawa

Karuizawa is a picturesque highland resort town in Nagano Prefecture, known for its cool summer climate, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. It has long been a favorite retreat for Tokyo's elite and offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and sophisticated dining.

Top Attractions

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

A large shopping complex with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place to spend a day, especially during inclement weather.

Shopping 2-4 hours Free entry, costs vary by store

Gumyokaku

A historic villa built in 1906, once owned by a prominent Japanese politician. The villa is now a museum showcasing the lifestyle of the early 20th century.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500

Karuizawa Shin-Kyuogakubo

A beautiful park with a large pond, walking paths, and seasonal flowers. It's a popular spot for picnics, photography, and relaxation.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Karuizawa High Trail

A scenic hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Adventure 3-5 hours (depending on the route) Free

Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art

A contemporary art museum showcasing works by Japanese and international artists. The museum is housed in a striking building designed by a renowned architect.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥1,000

Must-Try Local Dishes

Houtou

A hearty noodle dish made with flat udon noodles, vegetables, and miso or soy-based broth. It's a local specialty and a must-try in Karuizawa.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Karuizawa Beef

Locally raised, high-quality beef served as steak, sushi, or in hot pots. The beef is known for its tenderness and rich flavor.

Dinner Contains meat

Yuba (Tofu Skin)

A delicate, thin layer of tofu skin that can be served fresh, dried, or in various dishes. It's a local delicacy and a healthy snack option.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian, Vegan

Karuizawa Wine

Wine produced from grapes grown in the Karuizawa region. The cool climate and high altitude contribute to the unique flavor of the wine.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing Snowboarding Paragliding Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in parks Strolling through gardens

Best Time to Visit

June to September

Summer is the peak season in Karuizawa, offering pleasant temperatures, lush greenery, and numerous outdoor activities. The town is lively with festivals and events.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Karuizawa is a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. The town is well-maintained, and the locals are generally friendly and helpful. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using ATMs, as they may be targeted by thieves
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

Nagano Airport • 40 km (25 miles)
Tokyo Narita International Airport • 180 km (112 miles)

By train

Karuizawa Station

By bus

Karuizawa Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Loop Bus is convenient for getting around Karuizawa, with frequent stops at popular sites.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Karuizawa Station Area Old Karuizawa Hikage

Day trips

Shiga Kogen

30 km (18.6 miles) • Full day

Shiga Kogen is a popular ski resort and national park, offering year-round outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.

Nagano City

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Nagano City is the capital of Nagano Prefecture and offers a mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, and modern amenities.

Snow Monkey Park

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Snow Monkey Park is a popular attraction where visitors can observe wild Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs, especially in winter.

Festivals

Karuizawa Jazz Festival • Early September Karuizawa Cherry Blossom Festival • Late April to early May Karuizawa Winter Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (April to May, October to November) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices
Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding areas, but be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking in peak seasons
Try local specialties like Houtou (hearty noodle dish), Karuizawa Beef, and Yuba (tofu skin)
Stay in a traditional ryokan (inn) for an authentic experience, complete with tatami mat rooms, onsen (hot spring) baths, and kaiseki (multi-course) meals
Explore the town's historic sites, such as Gumyokaku and Old Karuizawa, for a glimpse into its past and cultural heritage