Fiery red maple leaves are blazing among the treetops!
The 3 Must-Visit Maple Viewing Spots in Karuizawa, Japan

▲ Karuizawa is now at its most stunning maple red moment!

Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wenjun / Japan

This year’s autumn seems to have arrived particularly early. Karuizawa, a well-known Japanese summer retreat, has already transitioned from summer to autumn, with green leaves turning red. Locals note that the maple leaves in Karuizawa have turned red unusually early this year, and now is the most beautiful time. If you’re in Tokyo and looking to go on a momijigari (autumn leaf viewing), Karuizawa, just about an hour’s drive from Tokyo, might be the best place to enjoy the fall foliage right now.

Located in Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa is famous as a summer retreat, but its rich natural scenery, fresh air, starry night skies on clear days, skiing opportunities in winter, and the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza that combines outlets, attract countless visitors all year round. With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen this year, it only takes one hour to go directly from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa, making it even more convenient for tourists to visit.

▲ The maple tree forest located in front of the West Building of Karuizawa Prince Hotel.

In the Kanto region, autumn leaves usually begin to appear around the end of October and early November.But Karuizawa is already in its most beautiful maple red period, and it’s about to come to an end. The speed of change surprises even locals: “The maple leaves in Karuizawa have turned red particularly early this year and will likely be gone in just 1 to 2 more weeks.”,If you plan to visit here for maple viewing soon, here are three must-visit spots in Karuizawa recommended for travelers:

▲ Momijiyama is one of the local-recommended spots for maple viewing.

1. Momijiyama
Momijiyama is located just behind the West Building of Karuizawa Prince Hotel and can be reached in a five-minute walk. Red, yellow, and orange maple leaves intertwine on the branches or scatter along the roadsides, creating a breathtaking sea of autumn leaves.

Tsuyoshi Tsuchiya, the operations manager of Karuizawa Prince Hotel, mentioned that when looking at Mount Asama from Momijiyama, you can see a heart-shaped carving on the mountaintop—a hidden scenic gem you shouldn’t miss here.

▲ From Momijiyama, you can gaze at the heart shape atop Mount Asama. Not only is the immediate scenery stunning, but don’t forget to look up for the hidden view in the distance too!

▲ Yunbasho Pond is also known as Swan Lake. (Photo/Authorized by Karuizawa Tourism Association)

2. Yunbasho Pond
Yunbasho Pond, a must-visit spot in Karuizawa, was once home to many swans, hence its nickname “Swan Lake.” Although you no longer see swans gliding across the pond, the vast shoreline is covered with larch trees and autumn leaves. In autumn, the fiery red maple leaves reflected on the water create a beautiful scene not to be missed by visitors.

▲ Shiraito Falls is also known as a hidden secret spot in Karuizawa. (Photo/ Authorized by Karuizawa Tourism Association

3. Shiraito Falls
Shiraito Falls, which can be reached in about 20 minutes by bus from Karuizawa Station, is only 3 meters high but boasts an impressive width of 70 meters—that’s its biggest feature. The crystal-clear waterfall cascades continuously, surrounded by woods that have turned red with the autumn hues. Make sure to seize the perfect moment and come admire it soon!

Recommended transportation from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa:
You can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen Hakutaka (some trains) or Asama, which take about one hour to get there directly.