Cottage Karuizawa

It’s very quiet here, so it’s a good spot if you want to unwind. The owners are always welcoming and even give me some vegetables at check-in. There’s a barbecue grill outside the cottage, and they let me use my own grill and charcoal for free. The outside of the place is old, but the inside has been renovated nicely. I’ve stayed here almost every year, though sometimes there’s a slight musty smell.

I visited in November, and the staff were very helpful, which made the stay pleasant. The kerosene heater keeps the room warm, but you can’t leave it on while sleeping, so bring warm pajamas. I brought an electric blanket and was very comfortable. There’s no Wi-Fi, but the mobile signal is good, so that wasn’t an issue.

It was great to see the owners, husband and wife, both looking well when I returned this year. I first heard of the place quite a while ago, when my son was still in elementary school, and we came to escape Tokyo’s intense summer heat and have a barbecue in Karuizawa. The garden is a decent size despite being among residential areas, and there’s a barbecue table. Bring insect repellent and you can enjoy a comfortable time outside. For the last ten years, I was often transferred from one job to another because of my position and age, so it had been a long time since I’d visited. I came back this year after retiring from that role and having work settle down. The pandemic had me worried, with more and more shops in the former Karuizawa Ginza being rented out, but I was relieved things seemed to have avoided the worst. The room facilities have been updated, and the bathroom and toilet were clean and comfortable. My wife and I talked about coming again next year, so I guess I have another year of work ahead of me. It’s a small place where ordinary people can relax. Recommended.

The owner was really kind and ready to help whenever I needed it. There was also a big plaza of about 3,300 m² next door, which was great. I’d like to come back.