Karuizawa Ski Resort Guide
For skiing enthusiasts, Karuizawa in Japan is an ideal winter destination. Located in Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is famous for its high-quality snow, beautiful natural scenery, and world-class ski facilities.
Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Karuizawa's ski resorts offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore how to get to Karuizawa, the best ski resorts, recommended accommodations, and suggested itineraries. Plan a winter getaway to Karuizawa and experience its unique charm!
Why Choose a Ski Resort?
- Step out the door and onto the slopes with soft powder snow at your feet
- Rejuvenate with on-site hot springs and delicious local cuisine
- Convenient equipment rentals and returns—no need to carry gear back and forth
How to Get to Karuizawa Ski Resort
Karuizawa is an excellent destination for Taiwanese visitors seeking a seamless skiing experience in Japan. Here’s how to easily reach this skiing haven:
By JR Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Karuizawa is by the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The journey takes between 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the train type. A one-way ticket from Tokyo Station costs around ¥5,490. Booking your train ticket on Klook can save you time and hassle.
Want to save on transportation? Purchase a JR Pass Tokyo Wide Area Pass on Klook, which offers unlimited rides on JR East trains and Shinkansen for three days. The pass covers the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa, the Tohoku Shinkansen, and the N’EX Narita Express to Narita Airport. It’s a great deal if you plan to visit both Tokyo and Karuizawa!
By Bus
If you prefer a direct route from Narita Airport or central Tokyo to Karuizawa, the bus is a great option—especially if you have a lot of luggage. Klook offers direct bus tickets from Narita Airport or Tokyo’s Yaesu Bus Terminal to Karuizawa, ensuring a hassle-free transfer.
By Car Rental
For those who enjoy flexibility, renting a car near Karuizawa Station allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, be cautious of road conditions in winter, as snow-covered roads can be slippery. It’s recommended to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle with snow tires.
Private Car Hire
If driving isn’t for you but you still want the convenience of a private vehicle, Klook offers private car services from Tokyo to Karuizawa, allowing for a stress-free journey.
Recommended Ski Resorts in Karuizawa
Karuizawa is a top choice for skiers, thanks to its stunning natural scenery, world-class ski facilities, and proximity to Tokyo. Among the many ski resorts, Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort is the most popular. It offers slopes for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly to advanced, and features modern ski facilities and rental services.
Here’s a quick comparison of Karuizawa’s best-known ski resorts:
Ski Resort | Location | Elevation | Highlights | Opening Season | Ticket Price | Distance from Karuizawa | Driving time from Karuizawa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort | Near Mount Asama, Karuizawa Town | 1,000-1,200m | Family-friendly slopes, kids’ park, ski school | Dec - Apr | ¥5,000 (adults), ¥3,000 (children) | In Karuizawa | 10 min |
Shirakaba Royal Hill Ski Resort | Near Shirakaba Lake, northeast of Karuizawa | 1,300-1,500m | Night skiing, suitable for all levels | Dec - Mar | ¥4,000 (adults), ¥2,500 (children) | 20km | 30 min |
Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort | Near Mount Myoko, northwest of Karuizawa | 900-1,800m | Long trails, ideal for thrill-seekers | Dec - May | ¥4,500 (adults), ¥3,500 (children) | 100km | 1.5 hours |
Kusatsu International Ski Resort | Near Mount Haruna, southwest of Karuizawa | 1,200-2,100m | Ski and hot spring combo, great for relaxation | Dec - Apr | ¥4,000 (adults), ¥3,000 (children) | 80km | 1 hour 20 min |
Tateyama Kurobe Ski Resort | Tateyama Mountain Range | 1,000-2,400m | High-altitude skiing, breathtaking views | Dec - May | ¥5,000 (adults), ¥3,500 (children) | 250km | 3 hours |
Note: Opening times and ticket prices may vary based on the season and resort policies. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort is the closest ski resort to Tokyo, just 1 hour by Shinkansen. Over half of the slopes are designed for beginners, making it perfect for families and novice skiers. The longest ski run is 1.2 kilometers, and there are rental services for skis, snowboards, and winter gear. Kids can ride the ski lift for free, and there are snow parks for sledding and tubing.
The resort is also near Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, where visitors can enjoy shopping and dining after a day on the slopes.
Karuizawa Snow Park
圖片來源：輕井澤滑雪樂園官網
Karuizawa Snow Park is ideal for families, offering activities for both adults and children. While parents enjoy skiing, kids can have fun building snowmen and playing in the snow.
The resort offers courses for all skill levels, with five beginner and intermediate slopes making it perfect for newcomers. Additional activities like zip lines and snow sledding ensure a memorable family day out.
Palcall Tsumagoi Ski Resort
Image credit: Visit Gunma
Palcall Tsumagoi Ski Resort, located between Karuizawa and Kusatsu Onsen, is one of Japan’s largest ski resorts. It boasts 24 ski trails and Kanto’s longest gondola, which stretches 3,193 meters to a 2,100-meter-high summit, offering stunning views.
Nearly 60% of the trails are beginner-friendly, but advanced skiers can find challenges too. Activities like snowmobiling and snow tubing ensure fun for everyone.
Karuizawa Hotels & Accommodation
Karuizawa is a year-round destination, just an hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen. Whether you're visiting in winter for skiing or in summer for hiking, you'll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs.
Here are three key areas to consider when choosing where to stay:
Karuizawa Station Area
Image credit: snow monkey resorts
Ideal for first-time visitors, this area offers easy access to Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and the ski resort. With JR Karuizawa Station nearby, it's a convenient base for exploring the town and surrounding areas.
Old Karuizawa
Image credit: Trip Karuizawa
Old Karuizawa is home to the bustling Ginza Street, a hub for local shops and restaurants. Nearby, you’ll find scenic spots like Kumoba Pond, making it a great area for travelers who enjoy shopping and nature. Accommodation here ranges from traditional inns to modern hotels.
Naka-Karuizawa
Image credit: Hoshino Area
Centered around Hoshino Resorts, this area is perfect for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. Visit the beautiful stone and plateau churches, dine at unique cafes, or unwind at the popular Tombo-no-Yu hot springs.
Karuizawa Ski Itinerary
Here’s a suggested three-day Karuizawa skiing itinerary for Taiwanese travellers:
Day 1: Arrival in Karuizawa
- Morning: Depart from Taiwan, transfer to Tokyo, and take the Shinkansen to Karuizawa.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel or guesthouse and explore the town’s winter charm. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Skiing at Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort
- Morning: Head to Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort and choose from a variety of ski slopes.
- Afternoon: Continue skiing or sign up for a lesson if you're a beginner. Afterward, indulge in a warm meal to recharge for the next day.
Day 3: Final Ski Session & Return Home
- Morning: Hit the slopes for one last ski session or challenge yourself on new trails.
- Afternoon: Before heading back to Tokyo, take time to explore Karuizawa’s town center and pick up some local souvenirs.
- Evening: Take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo, and fly home to Taiwan after a memorable winter trip.
With top-notch ski resorts, convenient transportation, and charming accommodation, Karuizawa offers the perfect winter getaway for all types of travellers. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skier, Karuizawa provides an unforgettable winter experience. Start planning your trip today!
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