Hutte Lied

The view from the window over a field of lotus-like plants was lovely. Inside, this small eco lodge felt homely, with a kitchen stocked with cooking gear and condiments. The owner had also put up English instructions so foreign guests could use the futons properly. It's tucked away in a quiet, remote spot, and getting to the entrance can be tricky even by car. The owner kindly arranged to meet us and guide us to the cottage.

The cottage stay I'd been dreaming of after visiting Japan for 15 years. I came to spend a few demanding workdays at the new distillery in Komoro, and wanted this instead of a fancy hotel in distant Karuizawa. Each morning I felt lucky to hike through the forest rather than take a bus, and each evening I came back through the mysterious woods to this traditional Japanese house. Midori has made the cottage feel like a sanctuary, surrounded by deep nature and the mountain's strong energy. She's a fantastic host, speaks English beautifully, and understands the Western perspective. I also recommend stopping by the shop run by Midori and her husband. They have beautiful traditional local crafts and gifts, including Kintsugi, wood carvings, and paper art. And try a little Fiji apple, it's a flavor I won't forget. Thank you so much, Midori. I'll be back soon.

Midori was so helpful and friendly, and she knows a ton about her town. Her shop is just up the street, where you can pick up outdoor knickknacks and learn kinstuigi, the Japanese art of pottery repair. The cottage itself is in the woods, with a path behind it and plenty of local wildlife. We saw raccoon dogs every day. It's about a 10-minute walk to a bus stop for town or the nearby Mt Adama area, though walking around in the cold winter weather was rough. We visited in Mar, and without a car this might be nicer in summer. Maps puts the station an hour away on foot. Inside, there are lots of heaters and thick blankets. The small bath and kitchen have what you need to cook, including a stove, microwave, toaster oven, rice cooker, coffee pot, fridge, and plates. Hutte Lied is a cute cottage, and Midori speaks fluent English.

Lovely surroundings and a really charming house. From Karuizawa, don't rely on Google Maps for the route. Drive through the tunnel, turn right, and look for the Hutte Lied sign. Follow it and you'll get there! :)