Karuizawa offers visitors a wealth of attractions, from cozy cafes and renowned restaurants to a rich history and unique traditions. The autumn foliage here is particularly breathtaking. While Karuizawa’s famous spots are a bit spread out, making a walking tour challenging, a bicycle is the perfect way to explore the area. The high altitude and refreshing forest air make for an easy and enjoyable ride.
I began my journey from Karuizawa Station on my own bike, but a cyclist can also find plenty of rental shops nearby. Although the route isn’t overly difficult, an e-bike or a sports bike is recommended for the short climbs. This 20 km route can be completed in about two hours if one is in a hurry, but to fully appreciate each stop, it can easily become a half-day adventure or longer. The beauty of cycling is that it allows you to go at your own pace.
My ride started by heading from the station through Karuizawa town. The streets soon gave way to a canopy of trees, and the mid-summer morning air was crisp and comfortable. This is a stark contrast to the early-morning heat of places like Tokyo; Karuizawa’s high altitude and shady forests keep the temperatures pleasantly cool, even in summer.
My first stop was the historic Manpei Hotel, a famous landmark that has hosted royalty and celebrities, including John Lennon and Yoko Ono. It’s located in a peaceful summer house area, making it a delightful spot for a morning ride.
Following a scenic route through the trees, a small climb led me to Mikasa Avenue and the Mikasa Hotel. Though currently closed to the public, this beautiful Western-style building is still a treat to see from the outside.
After the descent, I passed morning walkers enjoying the summer house area before arriving at Gozensui pond, located on the grounds of Hotel Kajima no Mori. The spring water here is so pure that it was reportedly served to the Meiji Emperor during the Edo period. Just a short distance from Gozen-ike is the famous Kumoba Pond, also known as “Swan Lake.” The tranquil water perfectly reflects the surrounding trees and blue sky, creating a picture-perfect scene.
The route then joined a national road, which, with its light traffic, allowed me to pick up a little speed. My next destination was the Hoshino area, home to renowned spots like the Karuizawa Kogen Church, Stone Church, and Harunire Terrace. A break for some refreshments at Harunire Terrace would be a great addition to the trip for any cyclist.
After visiting the churches nestled in the forest, I returned to Karuizawa Ginza, where a variety of bakeries can be found. The famous French Bakery and Asano Bakery, located across the street from each other, are particularly well-known because John Lennon was a frequent customer. Karuizawa is a culinary haven, with numerous summer houses and restaurants, so I’ll be sure to make time for a leisurely lunch on my next ride.
