JAPAN Inspiration Gallery 11
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Karuizawa

Much-loved as a weekend retreat by affluent Tokyo urbanites, Karuizawa is set deep within a verdant mountainous valley in the Japan Alps. It has the wonderful benefit of having an accessible location, just over an hour away from the capital by bullet train, while also feeling millions of miles away from the stresses and strains of city life. This countryside resort in the Nagano Prefecture sits at one end of Japan’s ‘romantic road’ – a renowned route that winds its way through the mountains to Nikko – in a particularly picturesque rural idyll.

Here, a number of scenic spots can be found dotted around; from the impressive Shiraito Waterfall to the volcanic Mount Asama, both of which provide excellent views when arriving from Nikko by car. Respect and appreciation for nature is integral to Japanese culture and we believe that there is no better way to admire it in all its glory than in the most striking seasons; cherry blossom ‘sakura’ season (MarchApril) and autumn leaf ‘koyo’ season (NovemberDecember). Karuizawa comes to life at these times of year, as the landscape becomes awash with pretty petals in the spring and gets set ablaze with the vivid deep red and golden leaves in autumn; both really are a sight to behold.

In the summer months, many venture to this town for a welcome relief from the sweltering heat in Tokyo and to play at the resort’s golf courses. Nature lovers also embrace the unspoiled surroundings by walking and cycling within the atmospheric forests. During the cold winter, Karuizawa is a popular destination for those in need of healing hot spring ‘onsen’ baths, as well as those seeking outdoor activities in the mountains. The snowsports on offer here from skiing and snowboarding to sledging and snowtubing make it an ideal destination for a family adventure holiday in Japan.

To add to its strengths, this highland getaway is also home to one of Japan’s most renowned modern 'ryokan' - the Hoshinoya. This luxury property is the little sister of arguably the most iconic hotel in Kyoto (set upon the banks of the river in Arashiyama), so is of the finest quality, complete with traditional rooms and ‘kaiseki’ gourmet cuisine. We recommend staying here to relax for a night or two as you travel through the captivating Japan Alps.

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Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran

Client Testimonials

We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines

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