Set out on a day tour from Tokyo that takes you to the scenic Karuizawa and the historic Kawagoe. Explore the renowned Prince Outlets, learn about Hoshino Resorts’ tranquility, and savor a delightful lunch at Harunire Terrace. Then, discover the charming streets of "Little Edo," Kawagoe, with its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural experiences. This adventure promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, shopping, and Japanese heritage.
This experience made our article of Kawagoe’s Best 7 Tours.
Key Points
- This 10-hour tour departs from Tokyo and takes visitors to the scenic town of Karuizawa and the historic town of Kawagoe.
- At Karuizawa, visitors can explore the upscale Prince Outlets and opt to visit the Cloud Field Pond.
- Lunch is provided at the Harunire Terrace in Karuizawa, surrounded by wild elm trees.
- Kawagoe, also known as "Little Edo," offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and culture.
- The tour is available in English, Japanese, and Chinese, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Karuizawa Hyland Shrine Koedo Kawagoe Day Tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the picturesque town of Karuizawa and the historic city of Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo."
Priced from €77.94 per person, this 10-hour tour departs from Tokyo with two convenient starting locations and is available in English, Japanese, and Chinese.
Guests enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
With a minimum of 4 participants, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled if the minimum isn’t met.
Looking for more options in Kawagoe? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from either Marunouchi North Exit or Shinjuku West Exit in Tokyo, the tour whisks participants by bus or coach on a 2-hour journey to the charming town of Karuizawa.
Upon arrival, guests can enjoy free time for shopping at the Karuizawa Prince Outlets or exploring the scenic Hoshino Resorts. An optional visit to the serene Cloud Field Pond is also available.
Lunch is provided at the Harunire Terrace, a charming commercial facility surrounded by wild elm trees.
The tour then continues to the historic town of Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," to discover its well-preserved traditional architecture.
Karuizawa Outlets
Though renowned for its upscale fashion and lifestyle brands, the Karuizawa Prince Outlets also offer a myriad of shopping opportunities catering to diverse interests. Visitors can browse through a wide selection of apparel, accessories, homewares, and specialty items from both domestic and international labels. The outlets feature a convenient layout, with stores clustered in distinct zones for easy navigation. To help shoppers plan their visit, here’s a quick overview of the key shopping zones and their offerings:
| Zone | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Fashion | Luxury brands, boutiques, sportswear |
| Lifestyle | Homewares, gifts, outdoor gear |
| Dining | Cafes, restaurants, gourmet foods |
| Entertainment | Theaters, arcades, activity centers |
| Outlet Specials | Discounted brand-name products |
Cloud Field Pond
Cloud Field Pond, a serene natural oasis, beckons visitors to enjoy its tranquil surroundings.
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Karuizawa, this scenic spot offers a chance to reconnect with nature. Guests can stroll along the wooden boardwalks, breathe in the crisp air, and gaze upon the reflective waters teeming with wildlife.
It’s an ideal spot for forest bathing, a Japanese practice of mindful connection with the natural world.
Whether seeking relaxation or rejuvenation, Cloud Field Pond provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city life.
More Great Tours NearbyHarunire Terrace
After exploring the tranquil Cloud Field Pond, the tour continues to Harunire Terrace, a unique commercial facility nestled among the wild elm trees of Karuizawa. This rustic complex features 16 distinct shops and eateries, offering visitors a delightful dining and shopping experience.
| Shop Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Grill, Café, Bakery |
| Apparel | Outdoor Gear, Casual Wear |
| Lifestyle | Home Goods, Crafts, Gifts |
| Specialty | Miso, Sake, Chocolate |
| Experiential | Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting |
Theres some good regional cuisine, browse locally-made products, and soak in the serene atmosphere of Karuizawa’s natural surroundings.
Hoshino Onsen
Visitors then head to the luxurious Hoshino Onsen, a popular open-air and indoor bathing facility nestled in the mountains.
They can enjoy the stunning vistas as they soak in the mineral-rich waters. The onsen features both indoor and outdoor pools, allowing guests to experience the serene natural surroundings.
With its mountain views and tranquil atmosphere, Hoshino Onsen offers a rejuvenating and relaxing experience. Guests can expect a fee of 1300 yen to access the onsen facilities, providing an opportunity to unwind after a day of exploring the region.
Kawagoe
Leaving the serene mountain setting of Hoshino Onsen, the tour then ventures to the historic town of Kawagoe, often referred to as "Little Edo." This well-preserved district features traditional Japanese architecture, including iconic kura storehouses and yagura turrets, transporting visitors back to the Edo period. Visitors can explore the charming streets and discover shops selling traditional sweets, antiques, and crafts. The town’s highlights are captured in the table below:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Kashiya Yokocho | Candy alley lined with traditional sweets shops |
| Kurazukuri | Historic kura storehouses with distinctive clay walls |
| Toki no Kane | Four-story bell tower marking the passage of time |
| Kitain Temple | Impressive temple complex with a five-story pagoda |
| Shrine Festivals | Vibrant seasonal festivals and celebrations |
Transportation and Logistics
The tour provides air-conditioned coach transportation with a driver and tour guide.
Pickup and drop-off occur at designated areas, with meeting point details emailed the night before, including guide information and vehicle details. Travelers are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to avoid missing the schedule.
The tour has the following transportation and logistics considerations:
- One piece of luggage per person is allowed; travelers should inform the organizers in advance if traveling with infants or extra luggage.
- Itinerary adjustments may occur due to weather and road conditions.
- The guide will hold a yellow flag with the GOGODAY logo at the meeting point.
- Minimum participants required to operate the tour is 4; if not reached, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Travelers are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes, traditional architecture, and other sights along the way. However, visitors should be mindful of restrictions in certain areas and follow the tour guide’s instructions.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are also dining options available at the various stops, like the Harunire Terrace. Guests should keep in mind any luggage restrictions for the tour.
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour accommodates visitors with disabilities, though certain activities may have limited accessibility. Wheelchair-friendly transportation and facilities are available. Guests should contact the operator in advance to discuss their specific needs and arrangements.
What Is the Policy for Tipping the Tour Guide?
There is no mandatory tipping policy for the tour guide. However, tipping is appreciated if the guide provided excellent service. The amount is at the discretion of the traveler.
Can We Purchase Additional Souvenirs During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can purchase additional souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes free time for shopping at the Karuizawa Prince Outlets and exploring the traditional shops in Kawagoe, allowing ample opportunities to pick up local souvenirs.
The Sum Up
This day tour from Tokyo to Karuizawa and Kawagoe offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage of Japan. Travelers can shop at the renowned Prince Outlets, visit the serene Hoshino Resorts, and discover the charming streets of "Little Edo" in Kawagoe. With convenient transportation and a packed itinerary, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the essence of Japanese culture.
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