This simple spot in Karuizawa won’t win any luxury awards, but I found it perfectly adequate for budget-conscious travelers. The no-frills rooms come with the basics – A/C, TV, and decent WiFi – plus you can soak in a traditional public bath. In my visits across Japan, I’ve stayed in countless similar local hotels, and this one delivers what you’d expect for the price point.
The downsides? There’s no restaurant on-site (you’ll need to venture out for meals), and the strict curfew plus rules about tattoos and age limits might frustrate some travelers. But don’t let that scare you away.
This hotel makes good sense for travelers who want a clean, functional base while exploring Karuizawa’s mountain scenery and historic sites. It’s especially suitable for solo travelers or small groups who prioritize practicality over pampering and don’t mind a slightly dated but well-maintained property. If you’re comfortable with Japanese-style hospitality and basic amenities, you’ll do just fine here.
Good To Know
- Located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, this hotel offers a variety of room types including twin rooms and standard rooms with four twin beds.
- The hotel has a public bath, designated smoking area, and vending machines, but no on-site restaurant, with dining options available nearby.
- Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast featuring both Japanese and Western dishes, designed to cater to diverse tastes.
- The hotel has an overall rating of 6.4 based on 30 reviews, with the staff rated highly at 7.8 but lower ratings for facilities, cleanliness, and comfort.
- The hotel has policies in place, including a curfew, minimum age requirement, and restrictions on pets and guests with visible tattoos, as well as a cash-only payment method.
Hotel Overview
The Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri is located in the scenic town of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
With a rating of 6.4 based on 30 reviews, the hotel is considered "Pleasant" overall. Its strengths lie in the friendly staff, scoring 7.8, while the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort receive slightly lower ratings.
Situated 3.2 miles from Karuizawa Station and 52 miles from Matsumoto Airport, the hotel’s location is reasonably convenient.
However, it’s worth noting that the hotel is 11 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan and 13 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, which may be inconvenient for some guests.
Room Types and Amenities
Moving on to the accommodations, the Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri offers a variety of room types to suit different needs.
Guests can choose between twin rooms, both non-smoking and smoking, or a standard room with 4 twin beds.
All rooms come equipped with essential amenities, including:
- Air conditioning
- Flat-screen TV
- Free WiFi
- Private bathroom
- Free toiletries
Whether travelers are looking for a cozy twin room or a more spacious standard option, the hotel provides comfortable and functional accommodations to ensure a pleasant stay in Karuizawa.
Dining and Breakfast
Regarding dining and breakfast, the hotel offers a buffet breakfast option to start the day.
The breakfast spread includes both Japanese and Western dishes, ensuring guests have a range of choices to fuel up before exploring the local area.
While the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, there are several dining options within a short distance, including traditional Japanese izakaya pubs and casual cafes.
Guests can inquire at the front desk for recommendations on the best places to eat near the hotel.
Hotel Facilities
Beyond the breakfast offerings, the Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri provides a range of facilities and amenities to enhance guests’ experiences.
Visitors can enjoy the hotel’s public bath, which offers a relaxing soak after a long day of exploring. The hotel also features a designated smoking area, allowing smokers to indulge without disrupting non-smoking guests.
For added convenience, there are vending machines on-site, providing snacks and beverages. Plus, the hotel offers laundry services, though at an additional charge, catering to travelers’ needs during their stay.
- Public bath
- Designated smoking area
- Vending machines
- Laundry services (additional charge)
Guest Services
The Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri goes the extra mile to cater to its guests’ needs. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, ensuring smooth check-in and check-out procedures.
Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s laundry services for an additional charge. The property also features a public bath, although guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using this facility.
Safety is a top priority, with the hotel equipped with fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Plus, the hotel enforces a curfew, with the property entrance closed from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Guests are required to inform the hotel of their expected arrival time in advance to ensure a seamless experience.
Location and Accessibility
The Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri is conveniently located just 3.2 miles from Karuizawa Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The hotel is situated within 52 miles of Matsumoto Airport, allowing for seamless arrivals and departures.
Guests looking to explore the surrounding area will find the hotel just 11 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan and 13 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park.
The hotel’s strategic location provides:
- Proximity to local attractions and transportation hubs
- Easy access for both domestic and international travelers
- Convenience for sightseeing and day trips in the Karuizawa region
- A comfortable home base to experience the beauty of Nagano Prefecture.
Policies and Restrictions
Guests must inform the hotel of their expected arrival time in advance, as the property has a strict check-in period from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Checkout is between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM. The hotel enforces a curfew, with the property entrance closed from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Minimum age for check-in is 20, and guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Pets aren’t allowed. Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
Cash is the only accepted payment method.
Guest Reviews
According to reviews, guests have mixed experiences at the Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri.
While some praise the hotel’s staff and value for money, others express disappointment with the facilities and cleanliness. The hotel’s overall rating of 6.4 out of 10 reflects these varied perspectives.
Guests highlight:
- Friendly and helpful staff who receive a 7.8 rating
- Dated facilities that could use some improvements, scoring 6.0
- Rooms that are generally clean but not exceptional, earning a 6.8 rating
- Comfort levels that are decent but not outstanding, at 6.9
- The hotel’s location, which receives a 6.7 rating from visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hotel Close to Any Popular Tourist Attractions?
The hotel is located approximately 13 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, a popular tourist attraction. It’s also about 11 miles from Honmachi Machiyakan, another notable site in the area.
What Are the Peak Seasons for Visiting the Hotel?
The peak seasons for visiting the hotel are likely during the summer months when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are plentiful, as well as during the winter when nearby ski resorts are in full operation.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Special Packages or Promotions?
The hotel does not appear to offer any special packages or promotions based on the information provided. The hotel rates and amenities are listed without any mention of discounted stays or bundled offers.
Can the Hotel Accommodate Large Groups or Events?
The hotel can accommodate larger groups or events, though details on group packages or event spaces are not provided. Guests should contact the hotel directly to inquire about group accommodations and any available facilities or services to host events.
What Is the Dress Code for the Hotel’s Public Areas?
The hotel does not have a strict dress code for its public areas. Guests can dress comfortably, though swimwear or extremely casual attire may not be appropriate. It’s best to err on the side of modest and respectful clothing.
The Sum Up
The Karuizawa Hotel Paipuno Kemuri offers a peaceful retreat in a renowned Japanese resort town. With a solid rating, the hotel provides comfortable accommodations, essential amenities, and convenient access to local attractions. Whether you’re seeking a twin room or a room with multiple beds, the hotel caters to various needs, ensuring a pleasant stay for travelers exploring Karuizawa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.