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Touring the most spectacular autumn foliage spots
Although not widely known, the autumn foliage season in Karuizawa starts earlier than in central Tokyo, and there are many hidden gem spots where you can experience autumn a little earlier.
Why not enjoy the crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage in Karuizawa, a place overflowing with nature?
Kumoba Pond

The lake's surface reflects the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. The autumn foliage of the maple trees is magnificent, making it a must-see spot in Karuizawa. There is also a walking path around the lake, where you can enjoy the autumn colors at your leisure.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 4 minutes by car, approximately 17 minutes on foot.
- ■Address: Rokuhonji, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing season for autumn foliage: Mid-October to early November
Shiraito Falls

This waterfall is located at the source of the Yukawa River, where hundreds of streams of groundwater cascade down a curved rock face like white silk Shiraito Falls. The layers upon layers of spray beautifully highlight the autumn foliage.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 26 minutes by car
- ■Address: Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing time for autumn foliage: Mid-October
Shiozawa Lake

Shiozawa Lake is located in the heart of Karuizawa TALIESIN resort complex. The lake's surface reflects the vibrant autumn foliage. There is a walking path around Shiozawa Lake, so you can enjoy the autumn colors while strolling. You can also enjoy the autumn colors from the lake by taking a boat ride.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 12 minutes by car.
- ■Address: 217 Nagakura Shiozawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing time for autumn foliage: Mid-October
Kaikoen
(C) NPTA
You can enjoy the colorful autumn foliage of various trees in the park, such as zelkova, maple, and other trees. Various events are also held during the autumn foliage festival.
[Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen Autumn Leaves Festival]
Dates: Mid-October to early November
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 37 minutes by car
- ■Address: 311 Tei, Komoro City, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing season for autumn foliage: Early November to late November
Old Usui Pass Observatory

Located near the summit of Usui Pass, at an altitude of about 1200 meters, this observation park marks the border between Nagano and Gunma prefectures, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Yatsugatake Mountains, and Mount Asama. In addition to the beautiful autumn foliage, tea houses line the old Nakasendo road near the entrance to the observation deck, where you can enjoy the local specialty, Chikara Mochi (rice cakes). There are walking paths, so you can enjoy the autumn colors while strolling along.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 10 minutes by car.
- ■Address: Toge-machi, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing season for autumn foliage: Mid-October to early November
Mikasa Street
Mikasa Street is lined with larch trees, and this street has been selected as one of the "New 100 Best Street Trees in Japan." During the autumn foliage season, the trees shine in golden hues, making it a pleasant drive. In addition, many walking tours are held in the autumn, and the street is bustling with people.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 20 minutes on foot
- ■Address: Karuizawa, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing season for autumn foliage: Mid-October to early November
KARUIZAWA OHGA HALL

KARUIZAWA OHGA HALL has a pentagonal shape, designed to pursue the acoustic ideal. Surrounded by enkianthus shrubs, the hall is a magnificent sight when the leaves turn bright red in autumn. There are paths around the hall where you can stroll leisurely, making it a great place for a walk.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 12 minutes on foot
- ■Address: 28-4 Karuizawa Higashi, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing period for autumn foliage: Late October to early November
Old Mikasa Hotel

This Western-style building stands quietly amidst a larch forest. In its heyday, it was renowned as the "Rokumeikan of Karuizawa." The contrast between the building, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, and the surrounding autumn foliage is magnificent.
- ■Directions from the hotel: Approximately 4 minutes by car, approximately 33 minutes on foot.
- ■Address: 1339-342 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kita-Saku-gun, Nagano Prefecture
- ■Typical peak viewing season for autumn foliage: Mid-October to early November