Discover the captivating Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour, an 11-hour adventure that takes travelers on a remarkable journey from Tokyo to the picturesque resort town of Karuizawa in Japan.
Led by an expert guide, this tour offers a fascinating exploration of the highly popular Hoshino Resorts area, renowned for its stunning beauty and social media prominence. One of the highlights of this tour is a visit to Kumoba Pond, also known as Swan Lake, which offers ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons.
Plus, participants can relax in open-air hot springs surrounded by tranquil beauty and take a stroll along a 400-year-old street for an enchanting touch.
Concluding with a visit to Glacier Shrine and Kawagoe Little Edo, this day tour promises an unforgettable journey through Tokyo’s wonders and its surrounding areas.
Quick Takeaways
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Reserve now and pay later, keeping travel plans flexible
- Expert guide from Tokyo to Karuizawa, a popular resort in Japan
- Relax in open-air hot springs amidst serene beauty
Activity Details
The activity details for the Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour include information on cancellation, reservation, duration, availability, and potential itinerary changes. Participants can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reservations can be made now with the option to pay later, allowing for flexible travel plans.
The duration of the activity is 11 hours, giving participants ample time to explore the Hoshino Resorts Area. It’s recommended to check availability for starting times. It’s important to note that itineraries are subject to change, so participants should refer to them as a reference only.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, located in the Hoshino Resorts Area, offering a wide range of shopping and dining options.
Highlights
An expert guide takes visitors from Tokyo to Karuizawa, a popular resort in Japan, where they can explore the highly popular Hoshino Resorts area and enjoy the charming scenery of Kumoba Pond, also known as Swan Lake.
This tour offers a chance to relax in open-air hot springs amidst the serene beauty of Karuizawa. Plus, visitors can take a leisurely stroll on a 400-year-old street for an enchanting experience.
The Hoshino Resorts area is a highly sought-after destination on social media platforms, offering free time to explore or visit the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza. Kumoba Pond changes its appearance with the seasons, making it the perfect spot for forest bathing.
This day tour also includes a visit to the Glacier Shrine and Kawagoe Little Edo, where visitors can experience the charm of the Edo period by exploring Hikawa Shrine, Kurazukuri no Machinami (Storehouse-style Street), Toki no Kane (Bell of Time), and Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley).
The return to Tokyo takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Full Description
Continuing the exploration of this day tour, visitors are provided with a detailed description of the itinerary and activities included in the tour.
- The tour begins with pick-up at either 8:00 AM at JR Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit or 8:30 AM at SMBC Bank Shinjuku Nishiguchi.
- Karuizawa, known for its picturesque scenery, offers a perfect spot for ecotourism.
- The Hoshino Resorts Area provides free time for visitors to explore or visit the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza.
- Kumoba Pond, also referred to as Swan Lake, showcases charming scenery that changes with the seasons, making it an ideal place for forest bathing.
- The tour also includes a visit to the historic Karuizawa Kogen Church, a popular venue for Western-style weddings.
With this full description, visitors can now have a better understanding of the attractions and experiences they can expect on this day tour.
Hoshino Onsen
Visitors can enjoy the renowned Hoshino Onsen and enjoy the relaxing benefits of its beauty skin waters. Managed by the Hoshino Group, Hoshino Onsen is known for its therapeutic properties that are beneficial for the skin.
The open-air baths provide a serene environment with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Plus, the indoor baths offer a unique experience with their expansive glass windows, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic beauty while soaking in the warm waters.
Hoshino Onsen is a perfect place for forest bathing, as it’s surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil nature.
The self-pay cost for Hoshino Onsen ranges from 1,300 yen to 1,500 yen for adults, making it accessible for everyone to indulge in the relaxing and rejuvenating experience of these beauty skin waters.
Return to Tokyo
After seeing the renowned Hoshino Onsen and enjoying the relaxing benefits of its beauty skin waters, visitors on the Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour make their way back to Tokyo.
- Explore the historical sites of Kawagoe Little Edo, known for its Edo period charm.
- Discover the significance of forest bathing at Kumoba Pond, also known as Swan Lake, with its charming scenery.
- Visit the Hikawa Shrine, Kurazukuri no Machinami (Storehouse-style Street), Toki no Kane (Bell of Time), and Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley) in Kawagoe.
Return to Tokyo takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation, driver service fee, guide service fee, and pick-up/drop-off from designated areas.
With the day tour coming to an end, the return journey to Tokyo allows visitors to continue their exploration by visiting the historical sites of Kawagoe Little Edo. They can also reflect on the significance of forest bathing at Kumoba Pond, taking in its charming scenery.
The tour provides a seamless return to Tokyo, where visitors can reminisce about their experiences while enjoying the comfort of air-conditioned transportation. The inclusion of driver service fee, guide service fee, and pick-up/drop-off from designated areas ensures a hassle-free journey back to the bustling city.
Directions
How can travelers easily navigate their way to the Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour? There are several transportation options available for travelers to reach the tour destination.
| Transportation Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Train | Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Karuizawa Station. The journey takes approximately 70 minutes. From Karuizawa Station, take a taxi or walk to the Hoshino Resorts Area. The distance is about 1.5 kilometers. |
| Bus | Take the direct bus from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Karuizawa. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. From Karuizawa, take a taxi or walk to the Hoshino Resorts Area. |
| Car | Renting a car is another option for reaching the tour destination. The drive from Tokyo to Karuizawa takes about 2 hours. Parking facilities are available at the Hoshino Resorts Area. |
With these transportation options, travelers can easily reach the Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour and enjoy their day exploring the beautiful attractions in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Meals Included in the Tour Package?
The tour package does not include meals. However, it is advisable to check with the tour operator regarding specific dietary restrictions and meal options that may be available during the tour.
Is Transportation to and From Tokyo Provided?
Transportation options for day tours from Tokyo include pick-up and drop-off services from designated areas. Plus, alternative hot spring options near Tokyo are available for those seeking a different experience.
Can I Bring My Own Towel and Bathing Suit for the Hot Springs?
Yes, guests are advised to bring their own towel and bathing suit for the hot springs. It is important to follow hot springs etiquette, such as washing before entering and refraining from wearing bathing suits in the baths.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Entering the Hoshino Onsen?
There are no age restrictions for entering the Hoshino Onsen. The facilities at Hoshino Onsen are also accessible for disabled individuals, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the relaxing benefits of the hot springs.
Can I Visit the Glacier Shrine and Kawagoe Little Edo on My Own Without Joining the Guided Tour?
Yes, visitors can explore the Glacier Shrine and Kawagoe Little Edo independently without joining the guided tour. Pros include flexibility and freedom, while cons include the need for self-navigation and potentially missing out on expert insights.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Tokyo: Karuizawa, Hoshino Resorts Area, Glacier Shrine Day Tour offers travelers a captivating and unforgettable journey through the picturesque resort town of Karuizawa.
With highlights such as the charming Kumoba Pond, relaxing hot springs, and the renowned Hoshino Onsen, participants can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the area.
The tour also provides the opportunity to experience the historic charm of Kawagoe Little Edo.
This day tour promises to be a truly remarkable adventure.
