Overview

At Tsuruya Ryokan, you’ll experience Japanese culture through every detail—from the scent of tatami mats to the comfort of a futon. Located in the quiet, villa-lined streets of Karuizawa, this traditional ryokan gives you a peaceful base for shopping, sightseeing, or walking historic trails.

This is one of the few ryokan-style accommodations in Karuizawa and an ideal place to enjoy Japanese hospitality in a warm, welcoming setting. If you’re visiting Japan for the first time or want a deeper cultural experience, Tsuruya Ryokan offers a perfect introduction. Some staff members speak English, and the ryokan provides free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

Accommodation

Choose from Japanese-style, Western-style, or hybrid rooms that combine both. Each room is designed for comfort, simplicity, and peace. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, you’ll find a space that suits your stay.

Twin + Tatami Room (29㎡): A Western room with twin beds and a separate tatami area. You can close the sliding doors between the two rooms for privacy.

Twin Room (14㎡): A cozy Western room with comfortable beds and a stress-free chair. Perfect for couples or solo travelers in the off-season.

Tatami Room (9.9㎡): A compact Japanese-style room with traditional bedding. Ideal for two people or solo use during quieter seasons.

Large Tatami Room (13.2㎡ + 9.9㎡): Two connected tatami rooms, a great option for families or groups.

Tatami Room (13.2㎡): A calming Japanese-style room, perfect for quiet rest.

Tatami Room (16.5㎡): Spacious, with a simple washroom and toilet. This room does not include a bath or shower.

Taisho-Era Rooms: Stay in the historic wooden wing from the Taisho period. These rooms feature original architectural elements and vintage furniture. They’re available only from spring to early autumn.

All rooms include air conditioning, flat-screen TV, safety box, hair dryer, electric kettle, refrigerator, towels, yukata, and a range of toiletries. Bottled water, Japanese tea, coffee, and jasmine tea are also provided.

Check-in is from 14:00, and check-out is by 11:00. During winter, only 22 of the 25 rooms are open.

Dining

Dinner at Tsuruya Ryokan features a multi-course Japanese menu served in one of three dining rooms.

Dinner includes:

• Appetizer
• Seasonal simmered vegetables
• Crab salad
• Chawan-mushi (savory egg custard)
• Fresh sashimi
• Grilled beef on a ceramic plate
• Tempura
• Rice and miso soup
• Japanese pickles
• Dessert

Breakfast is served buffet-style and includes a mix of Japanese dishes and Western options like sausage, bacon, bread, yogurt, and jam. Meals are served in the dining room—there’s no room service. If you have allergies or dietary needs, let the staff know in advance.

Onsen and Wellness

Enjoy a traditional Japanese public bath after a day of walking or sightseeing. The soothing heat and quiet atmosphere help you unwind. Public baths are separated by gender, and you’ll bathe while looking out onto natural surroundings.

Private bathing is not available, but the public bath area is designed for comfort and relaxation. Afterward, use the powder room to care for your skin or relax with a cup of tea in your yukata.

Facilities

You’ll find several relaxing spaces throughout the ryokan:

• Asama: Main dining area for most meals.
• Atago: A smaller, intimate space for a more private experience.
• Akane: A larger Japanese-style dining room used for group meals.

Lobby and Lounge: A calm place to wait, meet other travelers, or enjoy tea.

Banquet Rooms: Available for special occasions or larger gatherings.

Activities

Tsuruya Ryokan is located along a historic shopping street, close to many of Karuizawa’s highlights. Take a walk to the nearby shops, galleries, and cafés. For nature lovers, several walking trails begin right outside your door.

You can also explore sections of the old Nakasendo Highway, a historic route connecting Kyoto and Tokyo. From Tsuruya Ryokan, it’s about a six-hour walk to Yokokawa Station along the scenic trail. This is a popular journey for those who want to immerse themselves in Japan’s natural and historical beauty.

Nearby Attractions

• Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza: One of Japan’s largest outlet malls, just 10 minutes by car.
• Historic Nakasendo Trail: A great walk for hikers and history enthusiasts.
• Mount Asama: Offers dramatic views and seasonal hiking.
• Kumoba Pond: Known for its beautiful reflection of fall foliage.

Access

From Narita Airport

• Take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station
• Transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen
• Arrive at Karuizawa Station
• Take a short taxi ride to the ryokan

From Haneda Airport

• Ride the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station
• Transfer to the Hokuriku Shinkansen at Tokyo Station
• Arrive at Karuizawa Station and continue by taxi

By Car

• Use the Joshinetsu Expressway and exit at Usui-Karuizawa IC
• Drive about 20 minutes to the ryokan

By Train

• From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen directly to Karuizawa Station
• The ryokan is a short taxi ride or walk from the station