Karuizawa

With a long history as a getaway from the hot, humid summers that the rest of Japan experiences, Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture is viewed by some as an upper-class resort location. What is certain about the mountain town is that there is plenty to enjoy in it. From the ski slopes, to the upscale hotels, to the centuries old western architecture of the missionaries who first brought attention to the town looking for a retreat from the heat of Tokyo; there is plenty to engage yourself in. Visiting in the winter, you will be able to play curling in the town that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Whether staying in some of the local luxury hotels and shopping at the upscale chic stores in Karuizawa or just in town to see some of the beautiful sights, like the ancient architecture or the picturesque Shiraito Falls, Karuizawa has something for you.