Tucked away in the refreshing mountain air of Japan’s favorite highland retreat, this upscale resort hits all the right notes for comfort-seekers. I particularly loved its ultra-convenient location – just a peaceful 10-minute stroll from the train station and a stone’s throw from the area’s premier shopping plaza.
The rooms and cottages blend Western comforts with Japanese efficiency, while the on-site hot springs offer that quintessential Japanese bathing experience I always rave about. The breakfast spread is impressive, featuring both local and international options that’ll fuel your day of exploration.
Now, let’s talk straight – the room rates aren’t budget-friendly, especially during peak season, and the Western-style rooms might feel less authentic if you’re seeking a purely Japanese experience. But don’t let that deter you.
This place is perfect for travelers who want a cushy base for exploring the Japanese Alps, especially families and couples looking to escape Tokyo’s bustle. With the bullet train whisking you to the capital in just over an hour, it’s ideal for those wanting to combine city excitement with mountain tranquility. If you’re a first-time visitor to Japan seeking both comfort and convenience without sacrificing that Japanese resort experience, you’ve found your spot.
We included this hotel in our top 26 hotel picks in Karuizawa.
Good To Know
- The Karuizawa Prince Hotel East is a highly rated (8.3/10) hotel located 500 meters from Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza and a 10-minute walk from Karuizawa Station.
- The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including cottages and western-style rooms, with amenities such as air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
- Guests can enjoy a range of dining experiences, including traditional Japanese dishes, international fare, and a highly rated breakfast buffet.
- The hotel’s recreational facilities include a spa center, fitness center, hot spring baths, ski equipment rental, and bicycle hire for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
- The hotel is well-received by guests, particularly couples, with positive reviews highlighting the quiet, natural setting and spacious accommodations, though some cottages may need minor updates.
Hotel Overview and Location
The Karuizawa Prince Hotel East is located in the scenic town of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture.
It’s rated 8.3/10 based on 586 reviews and is praised for its proximity to Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, just 500 meters away, and its easy access to Karuizawa Station’s south exit, a 10-minute walk.
The hotel is conveniently situated, with a 70-minute shinkansen ride to JR Tokyo Station.
Guests appreciate the hotel’s natural surroundings and its range of amenities, including a spa center, fitness facility, ski rental, and bike hire, making it an attractive choice for both leisure and business travelers visiting the area.
Accommodation Options and Amenities
Karuizawa Prince Hotel East offers a range of accommodation options, including cottages and western-style rooms.
All guest rooms are air-conditioned and feature flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms with baths, slippers, and toiletries. Guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel also provides 24-hour front desk services, luggage storage, and a gift shop.
For recreation, visitors have access to a spa center, fitness center, hot spring baths, ski equipment rental, and bike hire.
With these amenities, the hotel caters to both relaxation and active pursuits during guests’ stays.
Dining Experiences
Guests frequently praise the diverse dining options at Karuizawa Prince Hotel East.
The hotel offers 4 on-site restaurants, catering to a range of culinary preferences:
- Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes like sukiyaki and shabu-shabu at the Japanese cuisine restaurant.
- Indulge in all-day dining at the Karuizawa Grill, featuring both local and international fare.
- Experience modern Japanese cuisine at the Teppanyaki restaurant, where chefs prepare dishes tableside.
Breakfast is a highlight, with a buffet offering an excellent selection of both Western and Japanese items.
Guests consistently rate the quality and variety of the breakfast highly.
Recreational Facilities
Beyond the diverse dining options, guests at Karuizawa Prince Hotel East can take advantage of the hotel’s impressive array of recreational facilities.
The property boasts a full-service spa center, offering massages, facials, and other treatments to help guests unwind. For the more active traveler, the on-site fitness center provides a range of cardiovascular and strength training equipment.
Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s hot spring baths, free for those staying in twin rooms. Plus, the hotel offers ski equipment rental and bicycle hire, making it easy for visitors to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
With these diverse leisure amenities, the Karuizawa Prince Hotel East caters to a variety of guest preferences.
Guest Reviews and Feedback
The overall guest reviews for Karuizawa Prince Hotel East paint a positive picture, with visitors frequently praising the hotel’s quiet, natural setting and spacious accommodations.
Notable highlights from guest feedback include:
The public baths, shuttle service, and diverse breakfast options were highly appreciated by travelers.
Couples especially enjoyed the hotel’s excellent location, giving it an 8.9 rating for two-person trips.
While the accommodations were generally well-received, some guests suggested that a few of the cottages could benefit from renovations.
Accessibility and Transportation
Karuizawa Prince Hotel East’s convenient transportation links make it easily accessible for travelers.
The hotel is situated just a 10-minute walk from the Karuizawa Station South Exit, providing easy access to the wider rail network. Guests can reach Tokyo’s main JR station in around 70 minutes via the shinkansen high-speed rail service.
The hotel’s location also puts it in close proximity to the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, just a 500-meter walk away.
With its well-connected setting and efficient transportation options, Karuizawa Prince Hotel East offers an accessible and convenient base for exploring the Karuizawa region.
Policies and Additional Details
Checking in and checking out at Karuizawa Prince Hotel East follow standard procedures.
Guests can check-in from 3 PM to midnight, and check-out is from 6 AM to 10 AM.
The hotel welcomes children of all ages, though those 6 and older are counted as adults.
Pets, however, aren’t permitted on the premises.
Guests should be aware of additional charges that may apply, such as fees for exceeding room occupancy or potential restrictions for guests with tattoos in certain hotel facilities.
The hotel’s cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, and reservations for the on-site restaurants are required in advance.
What Guests Enjoyed Most
Guests frequently praised the hotel’s quiet, natural surroundings and spacious accommodations. Many commented favorably on the public baths, noting their relaxing and rejuvenating qualities.
The variety and quality of the breakfast buffet also received high marks from guests. Couples, in particular, appreciated the hotel’s convenient location, giving it an impressive 8.9 rating for two-person trips.
While some cottages could use minor renovations, overall, guests were highly satisfied with their stays at the Karuizawa Prince Hotel East.
The hotel’s combination of scenic setting, ample amenities, and attentive service made it a popular choice among travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the Japanese countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Swimming Pool or Water Park on the Property?
The hotel has a spa center and hot spring baths, but there’s no mention of a swimming pool or water park on the property. Guests can access the free hot spring baths as part of their stay.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Package Deals or Special Promotions?
The hotel offers various package deals and promotions, such as spa packages and ski equipment rental discounts. Guests should check the hotel’s website or inquire at the front desk for the latest special offers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink Into the Hotel?
Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks into the hotel. The hotel has several on-site dining options, including a buffet breakfast and specialty Japanese restaurants, to cater to guests’ dining needs during their stay.
Are There Designated Smoking Areas or Can I Smoke in My Room?
The hotel has designated smoking areas, but smoking is not permitted inside guest rooms. Guests who wish to smoke must use the outdoor smoking zones provided on the hotel premises.
What Are the Hotel’s Eco-Friendly or Sustainability Practices?
The hotel hasn’t disclosed specific eco-friendly practices, but many hotels are adopting measures like reducing plastic waste, conserving energy and water, and encouraging guests to be more sustainable. Guests can inquire about the hotel’s sustainability efforts during their stay.
The Sum Up
The Karuizawa Prince Hotel East offers guests a tranquil retreat in the heart of Nagano’s scenic countryside. With its convenient location, range of accommodation options, and extensive recreational facilities, the hotel caters to travelers seeking a relaxing or active getaway. Theres some good the hotel’s culinary offerings and rejuvenate at the spa before exploring the region’s natural landscapes. The Karuizawa Prince Hotel East promises an unforgettable experience for its visitors.