Go Tokyo Your Experience
1. Kawakami-an: A Favorite Among Locals and Tourists Alike
Kawakami-an is renowned for its queue-worthy dishes, particularly its crispy shrimp tempura soba and savory duck soba. This restaurant maintains the traditional Edo-era method of eating soba, offering it cold to enhance its chewy texture.
The broth, made from bonito and kelp, complements the tempura’s light and crunchy batter perfectly. The duck soba is equally impressive, featuring a rich broth with tender duck that has been stewed to perfection. A visit to Kawakami-an is a must for soba enthusiasts.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 6-10 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Access: 15 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station
2. Villagers’ Diner: Immersed in Nature
Set in the picturesque area described by novelist Tatsuo Hori as “the beautiful village,” Villagers’ Diner showcases the beauty of Karuizawa through its extensive use of glass, reflecting the surrounding forest.
The restaurant specializes in Shinshu regional cuisine, including the crispy and sweetly marinated “Sanzoku-Yaki” chicken. With no reservations allowed, it’s advised to arrive early and enjoy a walk in the nearby Elm Town while waiting.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 2148 Nagakura, Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Access: 25 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station
3. Sausage House: 50 Years of German Sausages
Celebrating nearly five decades, the Sausage House offers a variety of German-style sausages made from locally sourced pork.
The sausages are known for their juicy, crispy texture and are available in several flavors, including classic, Frankfurt, spicy, and curry. The crispy outer layer and the juicy meat make for a delightful taste experience.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 1-3 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Access: 20 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station
4. Maruyama Coffee: A Champion Brew
Maruyama Coffee, a must-visit in Karuizawa, is known for its hand-poured coffee. The team, which is the first in Asia to win a World Coffee Competition, handles everything from bean selection to brewing.
The café often features seasonal coffees, allowing visitors to choose their preferred beans and roast levels.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 1154-10 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Access: 20 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station
5. Coffee House Dannei-Tei: A Tranquil Retreat
Coffee House Dannei-Tei’s low-profile yet stylish wooden structure, surrounded by a lush garden, offers a peaceful escape.
The café serves signature coffee replicating the old Mikasa Hotel’s recipe, along with handcrafted chocolate cakes and apple pies. The breakfast set, complete with homemade bread and hearty sides, is also highly recommended.
Location & Hours:
- Address: East 4-2 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Access: 5 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station’s North Exit
6. PAOMU: Karuizawa’s Top Pudding
PAOMU delights with its famous Karuizawa pudding, made from local highland fresh milk and premium cream. The rich, smooth texture of baked egg yolks and cream offers a perfect blend of flavors. In addition to its signature pudding, the shop also serves a variety of other desserts, such as cheesecakes and rolled cakes.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 806-1 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the 2nd and 3rd Wednesday and Thursday of each month)
- Access: 20 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station’s North Exit
7. L’ibisco: Fresh Italian Gelato Daily
L’ibisco serves freshly made Italian gelato, using first-press fresh milk and seasonal fruits. The flavors change with the seasons, offering a new experience with each visit.
In addition to fruit flavors, the gelateria also features unique options like rose, pumpkin, and roasted tea.
Location & Hours:
- Address: 746-4 Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano
- Hours: 10:00 AM until sunset (Hours vary, please check their website)
- Access: 25 minutes by foot from JR Karuizawa Station’s North Exit
These seven spots offer a unique taste of Karuizawa, promising delightful culinary experiences in a picturesque setting.