Koya Backpackers

I really enjoyed my stay at Koya Backpackers. The host and staff were very friendly, and everything was clean and tidy. It’s an old but lovely renovated Japanese house. The big table in the shared area was great for chatting with other guests. It rained heavily while I was there, so it was nice to get cozy with a cup of coffee and talk. There’s a kitchen, laundry facilities and showers, and onsens are within walking distance. The nature around here is so pretty. After two weeks cycling through Japan, this has been my favorite area so far. I can definitely recommend a visit.

The host was really friendly and answered all my questions about hiking trails. The chef was lovely and cooked wonderful food, and the shared kitchen was well equipped. There are lots of onsen options in the area. The hostel itself was a cozy place to stay, in a traditional Japanese-style house that felt almost magical. This hidden gem really made my time in Karuizawa great.

The tatami room upstairs was a lovely experience for a stay with friends. The building has a great atmosphere, the rooms are comfortable, and the host and staff were very friendly and helpful. There are pretty walks and rivers all around. Karuizawa’s cooler climate was a welcome break from Tokyo’s August heat. I’ll come again!

It’s a lovely spot to get away from the city, especially hot and humid Tokyo. You can barbecue, lounge in a hammock, listen to the birds in the backyard in the morning, or look at the stars at night. The owner was funny and very friendly, and spoke perfect English. It’s a good base for sightseeing, a little outside Karuizawa center, but you can also take a free bus from the train station. The backyard has momiji, so it looks especially suited to summer and fall. I wish I’d found this place sooner!