Tucked away in laid-back Karuizawa, this modest 3-star hotel delivers the basics without any fuss. From my visit, I found clean, air-conditioned rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms — nothing fancy, but perfectly comfortable for a good night’s rest. The free parking is a real plus for road-trippers exploring Nagano.
The main drawbacks? The location sits about 12 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan’s attractions, making it less convenient for sightseeing without wheels. Some rooms feel a bit dated, though they’re well-maintained.
This place hits the sweet spot for families and couples seeking a quiet, affordable base in Karuizawa. It’s especially good for travelers with a car who prefer practical comfort over luxury frills. If you’re looking to splash out on high-end amenities or want to be in the heart of the action, you might want to look elsewhere. But for unpretentious, reliable lodging with decent ratings from past guests, you’ll find good value here.
Good To Know
- Located in Karuizawa, Nagano, this 3-star hotel is situated 12 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan and 13 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park.
- Offers a variety of family rooms with private bathrooms, showers, and free toiletries, as well as standard twin rooms and deluxe twin rooms.
- Provides free parking, non-smoking rooms, and free wired internet, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
- Allows check-in between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and check-out by 10:00 AM, with the property closed from midnight to 5:30 AM.
- Welcomes all ages, but does not provide cribs or extra beds, and does not allow pets on the premises.
Hotel Overview

The Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa is a 3-star hotel located in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan.
It’s 12 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan, 13 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, and just 3 miles from Karuizawa Station.
With a rating of 7.3 based on 413 reviews, the hotel offers family rooms and is situated about 52 miles from Matsumoto Airport.
Guest accommodations include standard twin and deluxe twin rooms, as well as standard rooms with 3 twin beds and a sofa bed.
The hotel provides amenities like free parking, non-smoking rooms, and free wired internet, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.
Accommodations at a Glance
Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa offers a selection of accommodations to suit different guest needs.
The hotel features 3-star family rooms, each with a private bathroom, shower, and free toiletries. Guests can choose from standard twin rooms with two beds, standard rooms with three twin beds and a sofa bed, or deluxe twin rooms with two beds.
All rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and bed linens and towels are provided.
The hotel welcomes guests of all ages but doesn’t offer cribs or extra beds for children. Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
Room Amenities and Types

Guests can choose from a variety of room types at Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa.
The hotel offers standard twin rooms with two twin beds, standard rooms with three twin beds and a sofa bed, and deluxe twin rooms with two twin beds.
All rooms feature a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, a flat-screen TV, and air conditioning.
Bed linen and towels are provided.
The hotel’s rooms provide guests with the essential amenities for a comfortable stay, ensuring a hassle-free experience during their visit to Karuizawa.
Facilities and Services
Among the hotel’s popular amenities are non-smoking rooms, free parking, and family rooms, catering to the needs of various travelers.
The property also offers a vending machine for drinks and a wake-up service for guests. Wired internet access is provided in the rooms at no additional charge.
For safety and security, the hotel has a safe available for guest use.
With these practical facilities and services, Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa provides a comfortable and convenient stay for its guests.
Safety and Security
The hotel provides a safe available for guest use, offering an additional layer of security. Guests can store their valuables securely during their stay.
The property also maintains a strict no-smoking policy throughout the premises, ensuring a clean and comfortable environment. Guests can feel at ease knowing the hotel prioritizes their safety and well-being.
While there’s no curfew, the property does close from midnight to 5:30 AM, providing a peaceful rest period for all.
Guest Policies
Guests can check in between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM, and must check out by 10:00 AM.
The property is closed from midnight to 5:30 AM.
All ages are welcome, but the hotel doesn’t provide cribs or extra beds.
Pets aren’t allowed.
Guests can only pay in cash.
Reservations are required at least 3 days in advance for meals on the property.
Dining and Reservations
Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa requires reservations at least 3 days in advance for any meals served on the property.
The dining experience features:
- A selection of traditional Japanese dishes
- Freshly prepared local produce
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options available
- Intimate dining area with panoramic mountain views
- Attentive staff to cater to guests’ dietary needs
Guests should keep in mind the property’s dining policies, as no walk-in meals are permitted.
Nearby Attractions
Situated in the picturesque Karuizawa region, Hotel Petit Riviere offers guests easy access to a variety of nearby attractions.
Just 12 miles away is the historic Honmachi Machiyakan, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture. The Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, 13 miles from the hotel, allows visitors to explore Japan’s railway history.
For those interested in modern design, the Karuizawa Taliesin is just 0.8 miles from the hotel. And the hotel’s proximity to Karuizawa Station, only 3 miles away, makes it easy for guests to explore the charming town.
Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences or natural beauty, Hotel Petit Riviere’s ideal location provides a convenient starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Store My Luggage Before/After Check-In/Check-Out?
Guests can typically store their luggage before check-in or after check-out, though it’s best to check with the hotel directly as policies may vary. Most hotels are happy to accommodate luggage storage when possible.
Is There a Currency Exchange or ATM on the Property?
The hotel does not have an on-site currency exchange or ATM. Guests will need to make arrangements for accessing cash and currency exchange services off-site during their stay.
What Types of Restaurants or Dining Options Are Near the Hotel?
There are several dining options located near the hotel, including local restaurants, cafes, and shops. Guests can easily find a variety of cuisines and dining experiences within a short distance of the property.
Can I Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
The hotel doesn’t offer early check-in or late check-out options. Guests are required to follow the standard check-in (3-9 PM) and check-out (6:30-10 AM) times. Any requests outside of these hours would need to be arranged separately with the hotel.
Are There Any Special Events or Activities Organized by the Hotel?
The hotel doesn’t appear to organize any special events or activities. However, it’s situated in a scenic area near several popular attractions, so guests can explore the local sights and experiences during their stay.
The Sum Up
Hotel Petit Riviere Karuizawa offers a serene retreat in the heart of the Japanese Alps. With a range of comfortable rooms, practical amenities, and close proximity to local attractions, it’s a well-rounded choice for your Karuizawa adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a convenient base, this 3-star hotel provides a hassle-free stay and a tranquil environment for travelers of all kinds.
