Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Harunire Terrace is a stroll-style commercial complex located next to Hoshinoya Karuizawa and Karuizawa Forest in Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture. The site is filled with trees such as spring elms and birches, and the wooden buildings lined along the stream create a calming atmosphere. Cafes, bakeries, general stores, restaurants, and more line the streets, allowing you to enjoy dining, shopping, and strolling while experiencing the atmosphere of a "forest resort" that is so characteristic of Karuizawa. The natural scenery that changes with the seasons (fresh greenery, summer escapes, autumn leaves, snowscapes) and the nighttime illuminations are also attractive, and there are plenty of restaurants using local ingredients and gift shops.
Highlights
- A walking path along the river surrounded by trees: Take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the view of the stream and trees. There are plenty of benches and photo spots.
- Cafes and Bakeries: There are many shops where you can enjoy specialty coffee, freshly baked bread, and desserts that are unique to Karuizawa.
- Restaurants: There are restaurants that serve local ingredients and seasonal menus, and you can enjoy a wide range of options from lunch to dinner (reservations are recommended for popular restaurants).
- Miscellaneous goods and interior goods shops: This is the perfect place to look for souvenirs, as there are many stores selling gifts and Karuizawa-style household items.
- Seasonal Events and Illuminations: The autumn foliage and winter illuminations are especially popular. During events, there are also decorations and special menus in the shops.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Karuizawa Station
- Approximate time by train: Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa Station in approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on the train).
- From Karuizawa Station:
- Taxi: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions)
- Buses and shuttles: Depending on the season and time of day, direct shuttles and buses may operate from the station, so be sure to check the timetable before setting off.
- Access by car:
- From the Joshinetsu Expressway, Usui Karuizawa IC or Saku IC, take the national highway and travel for approximately 20 to 40 minutes (varies depending on the departure point and traffic conditions).
- Parking: There is a parking lot near Harunire Terrace (paid, limited spaces available). It tends to fill up on weekends and holidays, so we recommend arriving early.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk/café visit: 1-1.5 hours
- If you take your time and eat and shop: 2-3 hours
- If you also visit nearby tourist attractions (including churches, hot springs, art museums, etc.): Half a day to one day
Nearby spots
- Stone Church (Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Hall) / Karuizawa Kogen Church: A famous spot where you can enjoy the architecture and quiet space (easily accessible from Harunire Terrace).
- Hoshino area (Hoshinoya, Tombo no Yu, etc.): An area with hot springs, resort facilities, and walking trails.
- Kumobaike Pond: A popular photo spot in Karuizawa. Beautiful scenery in every season.
- Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: An outlet mall. Convenient for those who want to enjoy shopping.
- Natural spots such as Shiraito Falls and Sengataki Falls: Accessible by car, these are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is extremely crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, during the autumn foliage season, and during the New Year holidays. Parking lots tend to fill up quickly, and waiting times at restaurants can be long, so we recommend leaving early and making reservations (if possible).
- Business hours: Each store has different opening hours. Some stores may have reduced hours, especially during the winter or on weekdays, so be sure to check the official website or the information of each store before visiting.
- Clothing and weather: Karuizawa is at a high altitude, so there is a large temperature difference between daytime and morning and evening. Bring a jacket in spring and autumn, and warm clothing and non-slip shoes in winter. You will also need to prepare for rain.
- Pets: While you can often walk your pet outdoors, restrictions may apply inside restaurants and dining areas. Please check in advance and be considerate of others (clean up droppings and take measures to prevent noise).
- Consideration for nature and the environment: To preserve the scenery of the forests and rivers, please take your trash with you and observe good manners, such as using designated smoking areas.
- Cash and Payment: More and more stores are accepting credit cards and electronic money, but some small, privately run stores only accept cash. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Harunire Terrace is a spot where Karuizawa's nature and sophisticated shops blend together in perfect harmony. It's a good idea to plan your visit based on the length of your stay, combining strolling, dining, and shopping. We recommend checking the official website for the latest access information, opening hours, and event information before visiting.
