7 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Kita-Karuizawa, Gunma Prefecture!

Kita-Karuizawa in Gunma Prefecture is a beautiful tourist spot famous for "Asama Ranch." Located northeast of Mount Asama, it is a naturally rich area with a forest that showcases stunning autumn foliage. Kita-Karuizawa is not only renowned for its beautiful nature but also as a well-known resort area. Kita-Karuizawa has something for everyone.
From spots where you can immerse yourself in nature to places rich in history and culture, Kita-Karuizawa is full of exciting attractions.Here are some must-visit spots for anyone traveling to Kita-Karuizawa—be sure to check them out!

1. "Asama Ranch Chaya" - A Must-Visit Spot in Kita-Karuizawa! Savor Unique Dairy Delights and Enjoy Animal Encounters

When exploring Kita-Karuizawa in Gunma Prefecture, "Asama Ranch" stands out as a must-see destination. At the entrance to this iconic ranch lies "Asama Ranch Chaya," a beloved tourist attraction that offers a blend of nature, animals, and delicious food.
The "Animal Plaza" is home to friendly goats, sheep, rabbits, and ponies. Visitors can feed these affectionate animals snacks and enjoy the heartwarming experience of watching them eat straight from their hands—a perfect activity for animal enthusiasts.
Guided horse experiences are also available, ensuring safety and comfort even for beginners. For nature lovers, a 2-hour hiking trail starting at Asama Ranch offers breathtaking views as it passes over Tenmaruyama and ends at the scenic Shiraito Falls.
The on-site restaurant caters to various tastes, serving Japanese, Western, and noodle dishes. For groups, the BBQ house is a highlight, featuring fresh local meats and highland vegetables, all enjoyed in the cool breeze of Kita-Karuizawa's highlands.
Don’t miss the souvenir shop, where you can find original dairy products like butter and cheese, along with delightful cheese-based treats and Shinshu-exclusive items. It's the ideal spot to pick up memorable gifts from Kita-Karuizawa.

2. "Asama Great Falls" - Witness the Awe-Inspiring Natural Beauty of Kita-Karuizawa Asama Great Falls

A standout attraction in Kita-Karuizawa, Gunma Prefecture, "Asama Great Falls" is the area's largest waterfall, featuring a commanding width of 2 meters and a height of 10 meters. The thundering cascade creates an awe-inspiring sight and soundscape, harmonizing with the tranquil forest surroundings. This natural wonder is a popular photography hotspot, often celebrated on social media for its breathtaking views.
Located about 10 minutes by car or an hour’s leisurely walk from the Kita-Karuizawa intersection on National Route 146, the falls are easy to access via Prefectural Route 54. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby "Uodome Falls," just a short walk from the Asama Great Falls parking area.
The path to Asama Great Falls is well-paved and only a 5-minute walk from the parking lot, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. Early mornings offer particularly enchanting views, with the falls often described as one of the most stunning and majestic in all of Japan.
Just downstream, "Uodome Falls" boasts an equally impressive sight. Named for its ferocious waters that prevent fish from swimming upstream, this three-tiered cascade is especially captivating in autumn, when vibrant foliage contrasts beautifully with the dark rocks and frothy spray. Together with Asama Great Falls, these two waterfalls showcase the dramatic natural beauty of Kita-Karuizawa.

3. “Sweetgrass” – A 30,000-tsubo Campground in North Karuizawa

At Sweetgrass in North Karuizawa, the tent sites offer a camping experience where families can gather around a wood-burning stove. Sweetgrass accommodations come equipped with wood-burning stoves, and you can choose from seven types, including the Vermont Castings Encore (EverBurn). You can even select your accommodation based on your preferred stove. Beginners can also enjoy this North Karuizawa campsite with peace of mind, as they provide instructions on how to start a fire.
Another unique feature of this campsite is the opportunity to enjoy cooking with a wood-burning stove. Simple dishes like roast beef are easy to make, making it highly recommended. If you’re confident in your cooking skills, why not try roasting a whole chicken? SG’s specialty—whole chickens—are also available for purchase, so even if you’re not confident in preparing it, you can simply cook it and enjoy.
For winter camping, Sweetgrass offers cottages equipped with wood-burning stoves and water facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay even for beginners. In addition to toilets and refrigerators, these cottages come furnished and equipped with tableware, allowing you to enjoy cooking with a Dutch oven. There are eight types of cottages, so you can choose one based on your group size or preferences.
Cabins are a minimalist option with only basic furniture and a wood-burning stove, ideal for those looking to challenge a more traditional winter camping style on their second trip. You can stargaze from the loft or relax in the hammock provided. With 16 types of cabins, including hammock cabins and treehouses, there’s a wide variety to choose from.
For an authentic winter camping experience, tent sites are recommended. This style lets you feel nature directly by setting up a tent and starting a fire amidst harsh conditions. There are six types of tents available, but depending on weather conditions, staff may allocate you a different area for safety reasons. This is the best way to fully experience the winter of North Karuizawa.

4. “Luomu Forest” – Enjoy a Café in a Western-Style Manor in Asama Highlands

Luomu Forest is a woodland that survived the Great Eruption of Mount Asama during the Tenmei era, and within it stands the oldest Western-style building in the Asama Highlands. Visitors can enjoy exploring the architecture and light meals at YOKAN CAFE.
You can enjoy dishes such as gratin made with North Karuizawa cheese and open sandwiches, as well as pound cakes made with local ingredients, which are especially popular. As a café where you can also enjoy local craft beer and North Karuizawa cuisine, it’s a great place to take a break during sightseeing. A shop offering handmade local goods is also attached, making it a perfect spot for purchasing souvenirs during your visit to North Karuizawa.

5. Quiet Forest's Small Lake: "Shogetsu Lake"

In Kitakaruizawa, Shogetsu Lake is a beautiful lake where you can see fireflies in summer, making it an ideal tourist destination. During autumn, the fall foliage is stunning, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the changing seasons. Adjacent to the lake is the Shogetsu Lake Arabian Horse Ranch, where you can enjoy guided horseback riding experiences with Dosanko and Arabian horses.
For those interested in diving deeper, you can observe professional training sessions. By obtaining a Level 2 endurance certification, you can even participate in Japan Equestrian Federation-approved competitions as a B-rank competitor. It’s a recommended spot for those looking for a new hobby or challenge.

6. A Place to Buy Delicious Highland Vegetables at Bargain Prices: "Kubo Farm Direct Market"

For a delightful shopping experience in Kitakaruizawa, Kubo Farm Direct Market is the place to go for fresh highland vegetables at unbeatable prices. Imagine getting two cabbages for just 100 yen or a bunch of freshly harvested daikon radishes, complete with their leaves, for only 100 yen! This market is especially beloved when vegetable prices soar.
Frequently highlighted in online reviews and social media, this market is a favorite among travelers who make it a point to stop by during their visits to Kitakaruizawa. Buying in bulk and sharing with close friends is also highly recommended.

7. "Sweets Renverser Kita-Karuizawa Main Store is a pudding specialty shop.

This hidden gem of a sweets shop, located on a mountaintop, was introduced as a souvenir from Kita-Karuizawa on Fuji TV’s program Moshimo Tours. You can choose your favorite pudding from the shop’s extensive selection. Their signature Premium Custard is a luxurious pudding made with Kita-Karuizawa’s branded eggs, Pure Kuraichi, and low-temperature pasteurized milk. Served in a black Mino ware pot, it makes for a highly recommended souvenir. In addition to puddings, they also offer items like roll cakes, making it a great choice for gourmet lovers looking for Kita-Karuizawa sweets.
Although it is a pudding specialty shop, their pancakes are also highly recommended. The batter is made fresh after an order is placed and baked to perfection, with homemade pudding inside. These fluffy, hot pancakes are a must-try. Their Brûlée Parfait is also a popular choice.

Summary

How did you like our summary of must-visit attractions in North Karuizawa, where you can immerse yourself in nature? Known primarily as a summer retreat, North Karuizawa also offers fantastic spots to enjoy during winter, adding to its charm year-round.
Conveniently located just 1.5 hours from the Tokyo metropolitan area, North Karuizawa is an ideal destination for day trips or weekend escapes. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, an outing with friends, or quality time with family, the serene, nature-filled environment of North Karuizawa in Gunma Prefecture provides a perfect way to unwind and recharge.
We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable trip to North Karuizawa!