Day Trip from Shinjuku to Karuizawa: Shiraito Falls, Kumoba Pond and the Outlets

Leaving Shinjuku for the Highland Resort of Karuizawa

You will meet in Shinjuku and head out to Karuizawa. This day trip takes about 10 hours and visits Shiraito Falls, Kumoba Pond, Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street and the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.

A waterfall flowing through the forest, a walk along the water, a stroll in search of shops that catch your eye: every stop offers something different, so you get to see Karuizawa's many faces.

Because the travel between each place is arranged for you, this is an easy trip to add to your plans, even if it's your first time in Karuizawa. The order of visits and the time spent at each stop may change depending on road conditions, weather and other factors on the day.

At Shiraito Falls, Watch the White Streams Spread Wide

When you arrive at Shiraito Falls, start by looking at the water as it spreads along the rock wall. Groundwater drops in countless fine streams, and, just as the name suggests ("shiraito" means "white threads"), it looks like rows of white silk threads.

The falls are about 3 m high and about 70 m wide. Beside the water, surrounded by forest, listen to the sound of the flow and look closely at how each single stream runs down the rock face.

If weather prevents a visit to Shiraito Falls, the stop will be changed to Kumano Kodai Shrine.

At Kumoba Pond, Stroll Beside Forest Reflections

At Kumoba Pond, also known as "Swan Lake," take a moment to look out over the water from the shore. The surrounding trees and sky are reflected on the surface, so the scene in front of you seems to continue into the water.

It is beautiful in every season, whether in the vivid greens of summer or the reds and yellows of autumn. Shift your position a little as you walk and look for your own favourite view, whether it's the shape of the branches or the reflections on the water.

On Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, Stroll and Look for Shops That Catch Your Eye

Once you enter Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, wander past cafés, jam shops, souvenir stores and more. Look at the shop signs and buildings and you can sense the atmosphere of a town long loved as a summer retreat.

Choose souvenirs at a shop you like, or, if time allows, take a break at a café. Enjoy the street at your own pace, in the time you have.

Near the street you will also find St. Paul's Catholic Church, with its striking triangular roof. The surrounding buildings also reveal the scenery that is so typical of Kyu-Karuizawa.

At Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Find Your Favourites

Your shopping time is spent at the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. This resort-style outlet has a wide variety of shops, including fashion and sports and outdoor gear.

The spacious grounds include ponds and green scenery, so even while you browse the shops, you get that open, airy Karuizawa feeling. Deciding on the shops you most want to visit in advance will help you make the most of your time.

Look for souvenirs or something you'll treasure for years, and enjoy the shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions

■ Where do we meet, and how long does the tour take? You will meet at a designated spot in Shinjuku. Please check the post-booking information for the exact meeting point and time. The tour takes about 10 hours, but your return may be delayed by traffic or weather, so please leave some flexibility in your plans after the tour.

■ What languages are used, and will a guide accompany us? Guidance is provided in Chinese and Japanese. When the tour runs with a small group, the driver may also act as the tour escort, and a separate escort may not accompany you. Please confirm your preferred language and the guiding arrangements when booking.

■ What happens if we can't visit Shiraito Falls? If weather prevents a visit, the stop will be changed to Kumano Kodai Shrine. The order of visits and the time at each stop may also be adjusted depending on road conditions. Itinerary changes or cancelled visits caused by force majeure, such as traffic or weather, are not eligible for a refund.

■ Are meals and facility fees included? Please check the price breakdown of the plan you book to see how meals and facility fees are handled. If you plan to visit a café or go shopping, be sure to set aside a budget for that as well.

■ Will I see fresh greenery or autumn colours like in the photos? The colour and peak timing of the trees vary with each year's weather. The photos show the scenery typical of each season. The tour runs regardless of the state of blossoms or autumn leaves.

Things to Check Before You Book

• Meeting place and time in Shinjuku, and guiding language
• What's included in the price, such as meals and facility fees
• Comfortable walking shoes, plus a jacket or rain gear suited to the season
• Conditions for itinerary changes, delayed returns, cancellations and refunds

The tour takes about 10 hours, but arrival times and the itinerary may change depending on traffic and weather. For the latest details, please check the booking page.

Summary

Listen to the sound of Shiraito Falls in the forest, then gaze at the scenery reflected on the water at Kumoba Pond. In town, cafés and souvenirs await, along with a search for your favourites at the outlets.

Whether you're taking a deep breath in nature or feeling the thrill of shopping, why not add Karuizawa's scenery and fun to a day of your Tokyo trip?

Be sure to check the details of the Karuizawa day tour.