Karuizawa Private Customizable Full Day Tour

Karuizawa , Japan

Karuizawa Private Customizable Full Day Tour

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About this experience

This private and customizable tour for Karuizawa city (in Nagano Prefecture) is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

Discover 4-5 attractions in Karuizawa City at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.

After booking, you'll receive a form with varied themes, allowing easy selection based on your interests. Whether it's culture, history, cuisine, nature, or special events, you can highlight your preferences and must-see spots, streamlining our planning process.

Available options

Public Transportation

Bus, Trains or other: This tour includes public transportation costs with your tour expert (1 tour guide only). All transportation costs included.

Private: 1 Driver + 1 Guide

Private Car: This tour includes private chartered vehicle (1 driver) with a tour expert (1 tour guide). All transportation costs included.

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

English-speaking professional tour guide

8-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf

Discover 4–5 attractions within the designated tour timeframe.

Transportation within the city only

Detailed itinerary

A museum of contemporary art. The museum has a collection of over 1,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and video installations which focuses on Japanese and international contemporary art from the 1960s to the present. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions feature both Japanese and international artists, and they cover a wide range of topics, from new media art to traditional Japanese painting.

A museum of optical illusions. The museum has a collection of over 100 optical illusions, which are created using a variety of techniques, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The museum's exhibits are designed to be interactive, so visitors can walk through them and take pictures.

A popular onsen (hot spring) resort located in the scenic Karuizawa area of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It's known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lush forests and stunning mountain views.

A popular shopping and dining complex located in the scenic town of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture. It's known for its charming wooden buildings and stylish shops, offering a variety of products, from fashion and accessories to gourmet food and local souvenirs.

A unique and historic landmark. Built in 1916, it's a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is often referred to as the "Jewel of Karuizawa." The church is made entirely of stone and features stunning stained-glass windows.

A popular onsen (hot spring) resort located in the Karuizawa area of Nagano Prefecture, Japan. It's known for its beautiful natural setting, surrounded by lush forests and mountains.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Meals, food, and drinks (At your own expense)

Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Moderate Cancellation Policy:

We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 21 days or less before event

We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 30 days or less before event

PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:

After your booking, you will receive a link to the Karuizawa Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Karuizawa Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date

Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences

If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable

Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today

Mode of transportation: Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)

Custom Itinerary:

Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time, and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and responses from the Custom Tour form, we’ll begin creating your itinerary and organizing the necessary arrangements for your tour

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour takes time, especially if restaurant or venue reservations are needed. We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally 3 months in advance, or at least 1 month before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of travel, we may not be able to arrange the tour in time, and your booking request may be canceled with a full refund

What if I'm late?

We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time

Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need help

Although this is a private tour, the tour guide will only wait for you for up to 30 minutes of start time before the tour is cancelled

Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions

Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour

Meeting point

The tour typically commences at Karuizawa Station. The detailed pictures and instruction will be sent after the booking is confirmed

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