Karuizawa Private Vehicle Service with Restaurant Reservation
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Karuizawa (located in Nagano Prefecture) in comfort and style with a private chartered vehicle tour designed just for you. Whether you’re interested in exploring cultural landmarks, browsing vibrant local markets, or venturing off the beaten path, you can create a fully customized itinerary that suits your pace and interests. For added convenience, take advantage of our optional restaurant reservation service (securing a table at a locally recommended dining spot) tailored to your taste.
Available options
Private Tour 4h – With Guide
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Add-on Tour Guide: Enhance your trip with a licensed tour guide who shares cultural insights, local stories, and hidden spots.<br/>Pickup included
Private Vehicle – 8 Hours
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour 8h – With Guide
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Add-on Tour Guide: Enhance your trip with a licensed tour guide who shares cultural insights, local stories, and hidden spots.<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour 6h – With Guide
Duration: 6 hours<br/>Add-on Tour Guide: Enhance your trip with a licensed tour guide who shares cultural insights, local stories, and hidden spots.<br/>Pickup included
Private Vehicle – 4 hours
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included
Private Vehicle – 6 hours
Duration: 6 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private vehicle for the selected tour duration
Tour Conductor (if required by the transportation company for large group bookings)
Pickup & drop-off at designated locations
Guide (if option selected)
Tax, service and handling fees
Professional driver (Japanese-speaking; may not speak English but can assist via translation apps)
Fuel costs
Detailed itinerary
1
You’ll explore Karuizawa City in comfort with a private vehicle and fully customized itinerary. After booking, you’ll receive a form to select the attractions you want to visit — from cultural landmarks and scenic viewpoints to local markets and restaurants. This flexible stop is tailored entirely to your pace and interests.
What's not included
Highway tolls and parking (approx. ¥2,500–¥6,000, paid in cash by guest on tour day)
Entrance fees to attractions
Meals and beverages
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy (Only Chartered Vehicle)
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 7 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 20 days or less before event
Cancellation Policy (Tour Guide Add-on)
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
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred vehicle, schedule, and restaurant arrangements — ideally 1–2 months in advance, or at least 3 weeks before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of the tour date, we may not be able to accommodate all preferences, and your booking may be canceled with a full refund.
What if I'm late?
We ask that all guests arrive at the designated pick-up location at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
Contacting your driver
Guests will be provided with the driver’s phone number before the tour day, and you can call the driver directly if you need assistance. If you have booked a tour guide add-on, guide contact details will also be provided separately.
Although this is a private service, the driver will wait for up to 30 minutes after the scheduled start time before the service is considered canceled.
Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions
Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour
This is a private vehicle service. Only your group will participate.
PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:
After completing your booking, you will receive a link to the information form within 48 hours. Please fill it out accurately and submit preferably at least 14 days before your tour date to ensure smooth arrangements.
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
Custom Itinerary:
Planning and arranging a private vehicle tour requires time and coordination, especially when including restaurant reservations. Once we receive your booking and the completed information form, we will begin creating your customized itinerary and making the necessary arrangements for your trip.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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