This resort hotel in leafy Karuizawa delivers comfort without pretension. From my inspection, it’s well-positioned, just 11 miles from the historic railway park, and within easy striking distance of both the train station and peaceful Kumoba Pond. You’ll find free WiFi that actually works, plus a good mix of Japanese and European food in the restaurant. The public bath, sauna, tennis courts, and bike rentals help fill your days.
A couple heads-ups: The rooms, while comfortable, aren’t particularly luxurious by international standards, and during peak season (especially autumn leaf-viewing), rates can spike significantly. Also, some guest rooms are showing their age.
This place hits the sweet spot for families and nature enthusiasts who want a solid base for exploring Karuizawa without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for first-time visitors to Japan who appreciate having both Western and Japanese amenities at their fingertips. If you’re looking for ultra-luxury or a deeply traditional Japanese experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
Good To Know
- The Gran Resort Elegante is located in Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan, providing easy access to local attractions and a tranquil setting amid natural beauty.
- The hotel offers a range of amenities, including free WiFi, family-friendly accommodations, an on-site restaurant, public bath, sauna, tennis courts, and bicycle rentals.
- Guest rooms feature essential amenities, such as air conditioning, shared bathrooms, and traditional tatami flooring, catering to various group sizes.
- The on-site restaurant serves a culinary journey through Japanese and European cuisines, with options for buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- The hotel has received positive guest ratings for its service, facilities, cleanliness, comfort, location, and value for money.
Hotel Location and Surroundings
The Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa is situated amidst the natural splendor of Nagano, Japan, nestled within the quaint town of Karuizawa, just 11 miles from the captivating Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park.
Guests can easily explore the area’s popular attractions, including the charming Karuizawa Station, the serene Kumoba Pond, and the historic Karuizawa Station Building Memorial.
The hotel’s convenient location, just 53 miles from Matsumoto Airport, makes it an ideal base for travelers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
With its tranquil setting and proximity to local landmarks, the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa offers guests a truly memorable experience.
Amenities and Facilities
Complementing the hotel’s idyllic setting, the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa boasts an array of amenities and facilities that cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
Visitors can enjoy free WiFi with an impressive 8.9 rating, non-smoking rooms, and family-friendly accommodations. The hotel also offers free private parking, a restaurant serving Japanese and European cuisine, and a public bath and sauna.
For the active guests, the resort provides tennis equipment and courts, as well as bicycle rentals. Each guest room features air conditioning, shared bathrooms, and traditional Japanese tatami flooring, along with kitchen essentials like an electric kettle and refrigerator.
Room Features and Accommodations
Guest rooms at the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa are equipped with essential amenities for comfort and convenience.
Each room features air conditioning, a shared bathroom, and traditional Japanese tatami flooring. Guests can choose between 4 futon beds or 2 twin beds, providing flexibility for different group sizes.
The rooms also include handy kitchen amenities like an electric kettle and refrigerator. Flat-screen TVs in the rooms allow guests to enjoy entertainment during their stay.
Dining Options
Dining at the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa offers guests a culinary journey through Japanese and European cuisines. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of Japanese specialties as well as classic European dishes.
Guests can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, with both Western and local options available. For lunch and dinner, the menu features authentic Japanese fare alongside European favorites. Meals can be savored in the cozy dining room or on the scenic outdoor terrace, weather permitting.
The hotel also provides in-room kitchen amenities, allowing guests to prepare their own meals if desired. Whether craving Japanese delicacies or European comfort food, the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa caters to a wide range of culinary preferences.
Recreational Activities
Alongside the hotel’s culinary offerings, guests at the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa can indulge in a variety of recreational activities.
Visitors can take advantage of the on-site tennis courts, which are available for an additional charge. The hotel also offers bicycle rentals, allowing guests to explore the surrounding Karuizawa area at their own pace.
Plus, the property boasts a public bath and sauna, providing a relaxing way to unwind after a day of activities.
- Tennis courts (additional charge)
- Bicycle rentals
- Public bath and sauna
Guest Ratings and Feedback
The Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa has received generally positive feedback from its guests, who’ve rated the hotel’s various aspects quite favorably.
Guests have praised the hotel’s staff, giving them a rating of 7.7 out of 10. The facilities and cleanliness have also been well-received, with scores of 7.1 and 7.7 respectively.
Guests have found the comfort and location of the hotel to be satisfactory, awarding ratings of 7.7 and 7.6.
While the overall value for money has been rated 7.1, guests have appreciated the accurate property description and photographs provided by the hotel.
Policies and Regulations
The Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa has a straightforward set of policies and regulations for its guests.
Check-in is available from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and check-out is from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Children over the age of 13 are welcome, but the hotel doesn’t provide cribs or extra beds.
Plus, the hotel has the following rules:
- Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
- The entrance is closed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
- Accepted payment methods include cash only.
Guests should be aware that the cancellation and prepayment policies may vary depending on the accommodation type.
Getting to the Hotel
Reaching the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa is a straightforward endeavor, as it’s situated just 11 miles from the Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park in Nagano, Japan. Getting to the hotel is easy with various transportation options available:
| Transport | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Car | 25 minutes | 11 miles |
| Train | 35 minutes | – |
| Taxi | 30 minutes | 11 miles |
| Bicycle | 1 hour | 11 miles |
| Walking | 2.5 hours | 11 miles |
The hotel provides free private parking for guests arriving by car. Those opting for public transport can take the train to the nearby Karuizawa Station, just a short distance from the resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any On-Site Shops or Convenience Stores?
The hotel does not have any on-site shops or convenience stores. Guests will need to visit nearby locations for any shopping or convenience needs during their stay.
What Type of Heating Is Provided in the Guest Rooms?
The guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, providing climate control for comfortable temperatures throughout the year. There’s no specific mention of additional heating sources in the provided information.
Is It Possible to Arrange for Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
According to the information provided, early check-in or late check-out may not be possible, as the hotel has set check-in from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and check-out from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Guests should plan their arrival and departure accordingly.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Nearby Transportation Services?
The hotel doesn’t offer any on-site transportation services, but it’s located 11 miles from Usui Pass Railway Heritage Park, and guests can rent bicycles for an additional charge to explore the surrounding area.
Can the Hotel Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?
The hotel’s restaurant serves Japanese and European cuisine, so it can likely accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. However, the details of their ability to cater to special diets are not explicitly stated in the information provided.
The Sum Up
The Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa offers a captivating blend of traditional Japanese charm and modern amenities. Nestled in the heart of Nagano, the hotel provides a peaceful retreat or adventure-filled getaway, catering to diverse guest needs. With its stellar location, impressive facilities, and exceptional hospitality, the Gran Resort Elegante Karuizawa promises an unforgettable experience amidst the natural wonders of Japan.