Shinano Railway Rokumon train

This tourist train takes you from Karuizawa to Nagano in style. Small dining compartments are separated by shouji curtains. Enjoy the view of Nagano's countryside with a delicious meal made with locally sourced ingredients.

Zenkoji Temple

Zenkoji temple has been revered for over 1400 years as a center of Buddhist faith in Eastern Japan. Zenkoji houses the first Buddhist statue to come to Japan, attracting pilgrims from all denominations. You can even stay at one of the many lodges at Zenkoji to learn more about the lifestyle of Buddhist monk.

Togura Kamiyamada Onsen

Straddling the Chikuma River and surrounded by mountains, Togura Kamiyamada Onsen has a relaxing natural setting to go along with the natural hot spring mineral baths high in sulfur content.

Komoro Kaikoen Castle Ruins Park

Komoro Kaikoen is the former site of Komoro Castle, built in 1554 during the Warring States Period. The castle keep no longer remains, but you can still see its labyrinthian stone walls and several of its castle gates.

Ueda Castle

Built in 1583, this castle was an important fortification along the Hokkoku Kaido road and held off the forces of the Tokugawa Army—not once, but twice. Now, the castle grounds are one of the prefecture's premiere cherry blossoms spots.

Yanagimachi Street in Ueda

A remnant of Ueda’s castle town days and part of the Hokkoku-kaido road that connected the Nakasendo to the Hokurikudo. The old buildings of Yanagimachi now house numerous shops featuring local foods, produce and sake.

Bessho Onsen

Bessho Onsen is a quiet hamlet rich in hot springs and historical buildings. It is known as the “Kamakura of Shinshu” thanks to its well-preserved temples and tranquil atmosphere. It is also home to one of Japan’s national treasures: the eight-sided pagoda of Anraku-ji temple.

Karuizawa Garden Farm

Located in the cool highland of Karuizawa, Karuizawa Garden Farm offers strawberry-picking nearly year-round. They grow both summer and winter strawberry varieties in their greenhouses, and depending on when you visit, you can enjoy many different kinds of delicious strawberries.

Kumoba pond

A tranquil body of water in the woods of Karuizawa, easily accessible from the station by bicycle. Especially beautiful during autumn when the pond reflects the vibrant colors of changing leaves in its surface.

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

The Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is one of the main destinations for visitors in Karuizawa. It has over 220 outlet shops in a tranquil natural setting. Centered around a large grassy lawn and pond, the plaza is a great place for shopping or just relaxing in the outdoors.