Shiraito Falls Sightseeing Guide, One of Karuizawa’s Most Popular Attractions

The Shinanoji Nature Trail runs along Shiraito Highland Way and is an 11km trekking course with an elevation difference of 410m, stretching from Mikasa Bus Stop to Mine-no-Chaya.
In addition to Shiraito Falls, you can visit attractive spots such as Ryugaeshi Falls while trekking through forests surrounded by beautiful streams and conifer trees, enjoying the refreshing atmosphere of forest bathing.
There are several bus stops along the route, which makes it convenient to switch between walking and taking the bus partway through.
If you are making the trip to Shiraito Falls, take some time to explore this trekking course and experience the surrounding nature as well.

Light-up events are held at Shiraito Falls in both summer and winter.
The summer light-up event is usually held from late July to late August.
In winter, it is held from mid-December to mid-February.
The winter light-up is divided into three sessions: the Christmas Session, New Year Session, and Valentine Session.
Under the clear winter starry sky, the sight of Shiraito Falls beautifully illuminated with snow and ice is sure to captivate you.

There is a shop at the entrance to Shiraito Falls where you can enjoy Karuizawa local food as well as shop for souvenirs.
Among the local foods sold there, the most popular is salt-grilled char.
Other snacks include the summer-only original Shiraito spring water tofu, Shinshu apple soft serve ice cream, and venison buns called “Shikaman.”
You will also find plenty of souvenir-worthy items, including Karuizawa’s famous pickles and folk crafts, as well as sweets made with Shinshu apples and Kyoho grapes.
Well-known products such as Pocky (Kyoho grape flavor) and Puccho (apple flavor) are also available, so be sure to stop by the shop.

A “small town” made up of nine buildings connected by spacious wooden decks, designed to make the most of a natural grove of more than 100 Japanese elm trees growing beside a clear stream.
Based on the concept of “daily life in Karuizawa,” it brings together 16 distinctive shops, restaurants, and cafes, including branches of popular soba and bakery shops from the Old Karuizawa area, as well as stores offering high-quality Nordic goods.

A peaceful pond in Karuizawa, one of Japan’s leading highland resorts, and a classic stop on sightseeing routes.
It is also known as “Swan Lake” because swans used to visit in winter when the surrounding area was home to villas owned by foreign residents. Fed by the pure waters of Gozensui, the pond is exceptionally clear, and the reflection of larch and maple trees on its mirror-like surface is breathtaking.

A popular shopping street that draws several million visitors each year and is a must-visit in Karuizawa sightseeing.
Shops line the street, with everything from souvenir stores selling local specialties to a wide variety of food shops offering street food and sweets.
Not only the main street but also the narrow side alleys are full of interesting stores, so take your time exploring.

A day-use hot spring facility located about a 5-minute walk from Harunire Terrace, the multi-use complex operated by Hoshino Resorts.
Hoshino Onsen first opened in 1915 and has long been loved by many people as one of Karuizawa’s famous hot springs.

A remarkable natural scenic site in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and the Mt. Asama North Foothills Geopark.
During the eruption of Mt. Asama in 1783, lava flowed out and later cooled into solid masses that spread across the area, creating its unique landscape.

Sonmin-Shokudo, a restaurant operated by Hoshino Resorts, is based on the concept of “casual dining that warmly welcomes visitors to the beautiful village of Karuizawa with delicious food.”
Its appeal lies in enjoying dishes made generously with seasonal ingredients from Shinshu in a relaxed atmosphere.
At lunch, set meals are the main focus, while in the evening, it is also recommended to enjoy à la carte dishes with local Shinshu sake.

A soba restaurant located in Harunire Terrace, one of Karuizawa’s most popular spots.
Kawakami-an is a popular restaurant with locations not only in Old Karuizawa but also in Azabu and Aoyama. You can enjoy soba made from buckwheat milled in-house each day in a custom stone mill, using only the amount needed for that day.
The coarsely ground nihachi soba is known for its rich flavor and smooth texture, strong enough to stand up to its slightly spicy dipping sauce made with soy sauce from 100% domestic soybeans.

The fourth Maruyama Coffee location, opened in Harunire Terrace, the “small town” within the Karuizawa Hoshino Area operated by Hoshino Resorts.
Buyer Maruyama personally visits coffee-producing regions overseas, checks the flavor through tastings, and selects high-quality beans from auctions and excellent farms. About 20 kinds of carefully chosen coffee are always available.
The shop-exclusive Haruniterasu Blend (medium-dark roast), inspired by the large Japanese elm trees, is characterized by flavors of orange and nuts.

A hotel that opened in the Karuizawa Hoshino Area in 2019, built around the concept of “more than an izakaya, less than a trip, a hotel where everyone can relax together.”
Its defining feature is TAMARIBA, a public space that can be used freely 24 hours a day, with a cafe lounge arranged around a courtyard.
Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, and the laid-back style of buying deli food and relaxing in the lounge has become especially popular.

A stylish hotel with the atmosphere of a private villa that opened in February 2022.
With the hope that guests can feel the “neighborhood” of Karuizawa and the area around the hotel, the interior features works by artists living in Karuizawa and refined design pieces throughout the property.
The hotel has 155 guest rooms in six types, and every room comes with either a balcony or a private garden, allowing guests to experience Karuizawa’s grand natural surroundings even while indoors.

Founded in 1894, this classic hotel is one of Karuizawa’s most iconic properties and a symbol of Japan’s summer resort culture.
The main Alps Building, which blends Western architecture with Japanese design elements, is designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and its dignified wooden structure and stained-glass decorations convey a strong sense of history.
Guest rooms include the Alps Building, where you can stay surrounded by traditional charm, the classically modern Atago Building, and the elegant Usui Building, each offering its own distinct appeal.