Three Exquisite Escapes to Savor Summer in Karuizawa — The Birthplace of Japan’s Summer Resort Culture

Once a thriving post town along the Nakasendo route, Karuizawa rose to prominence as Japan’s premier summer retreat when foreign missionaries and cultural luminaries began building their villas here in the Meiji era. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters, the town enjoys a refreshingly cool climate—rarely exceeding 30°C even in the height of summer—offering a true escape from the intensifying global heat.

But Karuizawa’s allure extends beyond its temperate weather. There is a distinct sense of tranquility—often described as serene or hushed—that sets it apart. This atmosphere owes much to its long-standing role as a place of culture, spirituality, and quiet retreat. Nestled amid wooded groves, its chapels and refined architecture reflect a discreet elegance, where time flows gently and gracefully.

In this article, we introduce three exceptional spots where you can experience the deep stillness of Karuizawa's natural and cultural heritage at its finest. Here, beyond the reach of artificial cooling, lies a rare and enveloping sense of true refreshment—one that soothes both body and soul. Explore the hidden depths of Karuizawa, and discover summer at its most sublime.

Shiraito Falls is one of Karuizawa’s most iconic scenic landmarks, known not for dramatic height but for its sweeping width and serene beauty. From a modest 3-meter cliff, pure spring water spills in countless silken threads across a 70-meter-wide rock face—creating a scene so perfectly in harmony with the surrounding greenery, it feels more like a living painting than a natural phenomenon.

Unlike the thunderous roar of steep waterfalls, Shiraito’s gentle flow offers a quiet, restorative presence—one that seems to cleanse the spirit simply by being near it. The murmuring sound of water, the crisp, cool air, and the soft breeze create a deeply meditative atmosphere that invites deep, grounding breaths.

For those seeking the most tranquil experience, early morning is ideal. Arriving before the crowds, you’ll find the forest still cloaked in cool mist, with birdsong echoing through the trees—heightening the site’s mystical charm.
Just a 25-minute drive from Karuizawa Station, the falls are easily accessible via car or year-round public bus. For those wishing to immerse themselves more fully in nature, hiking trails are also available—an invigorating way to approach this serene retreat.

Kumoba Pond, known for its mirror-like surface, is a serene jewel tucked away in the quiet of Karuizawa. The water is crystal-clear, capturing breathtaking reflections of the surrounding trees and sky—creating a dreamlike tableau that feels almost surreal.

Encircling the pond is a gently shaded, one-kilometer walking path. Even in summer, the leafy canopy provides cool comfort, making for a refreshing and unhurried stroll. Along the way, you may encounter seasonal flowers, elegant waterfowl, or even visitors quietly sketching or photographing the scenery—each drawn by the pond’s intimate connection with nature.

Particularly enchanting is the late afternoon, when the crowd thins and a hushed calm settles in. As the sun begins to set, the angle and color of the light change moment by moment, transforming the pond’s surface into a living canvas of shifting hues and moods.Located just a 25-minute walk from Karuizawa Station, Kumoba Pond offers effortless access to nature’s quiet luxury. For those seeking a moment of peace wrapped in elegance, it is a destination not to be missed.

Among the finest expressions of Karuizawa’s quiet elegance after dusk is the Summer Candle Night at Karuizawa Kogen Church, held only during the summer months in the Sengataki area of Naka-Karuizawa.

Step into the church grounds and you'll be greeted by a sea of softly glowing candles—countless points of light that transform the forest into something dreamlike, as if the stars themselves have descended to earth. It’s a breathtaking scene that quiets the soul and suspends time. Nestled in the forest, this luminous sanctuary is the ideal summer retreat for those seeking calm and refined beauty.

The event also features live musical performances and readings of heartfelt messages, all gently illuminated by candlelight. It’s a multisensory experience designed not for spectacle, but for stillness—a quiet emotional resonance that lingers long after the lights dim.For those who wish to reset their minds and reconnect with something gentle and pure, this is an evening not to be missed.