A Zen Mountain Town With Healing Hot Springs Known As 'The Hamptons Of Japan'

Captivating travelers with a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, Japan's allure is unmatched. From the neon lights of Tokyo's bustling Harajuku district to the breathtakingly serene canals of Kurashiki, the country draws in more than 30 million visitors each year hoping to soak up as much excitement as possible. However, outside of Japan's most popular destinations, the country is brimming with hidden gems and treasures just waiting to be discovered. One of these is the picturesque town of Karuizawa.

Just 70 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, the upscale mountain resort town serves as a peaceful counterpoint to the capital's energy. Often referred to as "the Hamptons of Japan," Karuizawa sits at the foot of Mount Asama — and enjoys all of the benefits of this postcard-worthy region. A popular spot with local and international visitors looking to unwind, the destination is all about relaxation and peace. 

From forest walks to healing hot springs, and a wide variety of outdoor activities available year-round, there are plenty of reasons why Karuizawa has earned its reputation as one of Japan's premier retreats. So much so that even the likes of John Lennon once made the town his regular vacation spot.

In Karuizawa, relaxation takes center stage at spots like Hoshino Tombo-no-Yu (pictured above) — where natural hot springs (aka, onsen) offer a unique bathing experience surrounded by forest views. Alternatively, for something a little more restorative, the Shiotsubo Onsen Hotel's baths are rumored to have therapeutic waters — which makes them the perfect choice for some well-deserved healing time. As a pro tip, head to the onsen around 9:00 p.m., when you're more likely to have the place to yourself.

No matter where you choose to go, though, it's safe to say that forest bathing (or shinrin-yoku) is at the heart of Karuizawa's appeal. This practice, developed in Japan during the 1980s, gained widespread recognition after scientific studies revealed that just two hours among the trees could lead to significant health benefits — like lower blood pressure and stress levels.

As a final note, it's worth noting that Japanese onsen culture runs deep . Dating back centuries, and generally centered around mindful soaking and respectful behavior, these customs are taken very seriously. From washing thoroughly before entering to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, following tradition is essential to the experience — so make sure you look into these rules before visiting, especially if you want to be a considerate tourist while visiting Japan.

If you're still in the mood for relaxation, you'll be happy to know that Karuizawa's hot springs aren't the only way to unwind surrounded by nature. For starters, there's Kumoba Pond. Tucked away near the center of town, visitors can enjoy a peaceful 40-minute walk around the water that's surrounded with nature views. Then, once you've finished exploring, head over to Kyukaruizawa Ginza-dori — the town's historic shopping street, which features local artisans where you can find everything from handcrafted ceramics to local delicacies.

As a bonus, nature lovers should also make sure to check out Onioshidashi Park. Located 30 minutes from town, buses generally run hourly between Karuizawa Station and the park — which means there's no need to worry about getting there and back. Once at the park, you can wind your way through the trails, which feature a landscape of ancient volcanic structures formed after the eruption of Mount Asama in 1783.

Beyond its natural highlights, Karuizawa also offers plenty of shopping experiences that seamlessly blend local charm with sophistication. One of these destinations is Harunire Terrace. A beautifully-designed wooden marketplace along the bank of the Yu River, you can find unique souvenirs and enjoy some mouthwatering local snacks. Better yet, the area is also home to Karuizawa's most popular landmarks, including the Kogen Church and Stone Church — both popular spots for some quiet contemplation. Lastly, for a more contemporary shopping experience, head over to Prince Shopping Plaza. One of Japan's largest outdoor outlet malls, the complex is favored by locals hoping to snag some exclusive deals.