If you want to go on a journey to the serene mountain resort town of Karuizawa, nestled in Nagano Prefecture, you would have to board a train, from Tokyo via Shinkansen. As you leave, you are greeted by the crisp chill of the air, surrounded by a tranquil expanse of forest and delicate snowfall, punctuated by the imposing presence of Mount Asama in the distance.
Karuizawa holds a special place in the country's history. It's woven into the fabric of the collective memories. It's a quaint town, with weekend homes. Over the years, Karuizawa has garnered renown as a haven for affluent families seeking respite from Tokyo's summer heat, with notable figures like Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, as well as Yoko Ono and John Lennon, adding to its allure.
Karuizawa: Away from the Hustle of City
As we traversed the town, I couldn't help but notice the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that defines Karuizawa. While retaining its timeless appeal with soothing onsens, tranquil forest trails, and occasional volcanic activity from Mount Asama, the town has embraced contemporary sophistication with the arrival of new hotels and architectural marvels designed by renowned architects.
There is a serene accommodation called Hoshinoya Karuizawa, which epitomises this fusion of old-world charm and modern elegance. Established over a century ago as a humble ryokan and onsen, Hoshinoya has evolved into a sprawling sanctuary of serenity set against the backdrop of a meandering river. Here, we found ourselves immersed in the timeless rituals of Japanese hospitality, indulging in rejuvenating baths and savouring exquisite kaiseki cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Venturing beyond the confines of Hoshinoya, you will encounter striking examples of contemporary architecture nestled amidst the verdant landscape. From Kendrick Bangs Kellogg's organic Stone Church to Ryue Nishizawa's masterful museum dedicated to painter Hiroshi Senju, Karuizawa offered a captivating juxtaposition of tradition and innovation.
Contemporary Design with Culinary Delights
The journey continues at Shishi-Iwa House, a testament to modern Japanese design nestled amidst the tranquil forest. Designed by acclaimed architects Shigeru Ban and Ryue Nishizawa, the hotel exudes understated luxury, with sinuous structures blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Here, you can savour culinary delights at Shola, hailed as one of Karuizawa's finest restaurants, before retiring to a tranquil abode adorned with artwork from prominent Japanese artists.
As your sojourn draws to a close, you will find yourself reminiscing about the town's sites. Amidst the tranquil beauty of Karuizawa, you would discover a profound sense of connection—to the past, to nature, and each other. And as we bid farewell to this idyllic mountain retreat, we carried with us not just memories, but a renewed appreciation for the enduring legacy of family and heritage.
