Local's Favourite Autumn Route: Karuizawa, Kusatsu & Nikko (3D2N)

 

Yes, we know Japan’s summer just started and why are we already talking about autumn? The reason is, we often get inquiries from customers asking about trips that are two seasons away. And of course, nobody plans a Japan trip last minute, especially not for autumn, when the good spots and the good ryokan get booked out fast. So, we thought, why not share an autumn route now, while you still have plenty of time to plan?

Today, we want to introduce one of our favourite 3 days 2 nights routes for autumn — close to Tokyo, easy to reach by public transport, and covering everything you'd want from the season.

Day 1: Karuizawa

Karuizawa is the easiest first stop on this route. It takes about 70 minutes to reach Karuizawa Station from Tokyo or Ueno Station by the Hokuriku Shinkansen.

Start your morning at Kumoba Pond, a small, calm pond just a short walk from the station. It has a 1-kilometer walking path where you can gaze at nature's reflections on the water, and the trees are especially charming during autumn.

From there, head over to Old Karuizawa Ginza Street. This shopping street is lined with established cafés, bakeries, and shops selling souvenirs and local desserts, with many varieties of jam being a local specialty. It's a great place for lunch and a coffee break before continuing your walk.

Save more time for your last stop at Karuizawa Prince Outlet, conveniently located right next to the station. It's one of Japan's largest outlet malls, with over 200 brand stores covering fashion, outdoor gear, kitchenware, and more.

Day 2: Kusatsu Onsen

The next morning, make your way to Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most beloved hot spring towns. Spend your morning exploring Yubatake, the steaming hot water field right at the centre of town — it's the symbolic heart of Kusatsu and makes for some great photos with the steam rising against the autumn backdrop.

Walk over to Sainokawara Park next. This is a 500-square-metre open-air bath surrounded by forest views, comfortably accommodating up to a hundred people at a time, which makes it a great choice for larger groups. Bring a towel if you'd like to take a foot bath, or the walking trail alone is worth the visit.

You can also watch the traditional Yumomi show at Netsunoyu. We suggest checking the show times and buying tickets in advance. Meanwhile, spend your late afternoon walking through the town and trying the local specialities.

In the evening, settle into your ryokan, change into a yukata, and take it slow. We suggest taking a walk around Yubatake again, as the night scene gives a totally different vibe.

Day 3: Nikko

Last stop will be Nikko, famous for its nature, especially the vibrant autumn foliage all around the area. However, the trickiest part of this trip will be the transfer between Kusatsu and Nikko. There's no direct train connecting the two. Prepare yourself for multiple transfers between local trains and buses, which easily takes 4 to 5 hours of travel.

Want to make things easier? Contact Tabigo Private Chartered to make the most of your trip.

Our first stop suggestion will be Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In autumn, you can enjoy both the historic buildings and the colourful leaves together, and it's worth wearing comfortable shoes since the shrine has many steps and uneven paths.

Next, it is time to dip yourself into nature. Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls are just a 10-minute walk apart. Kegon Falls is gorgeous all year round, but especially so in autumn with its surrounding red leaves, and you can even ride an elevator 100 metres down through the rock to view the waterfall from a lower platform.

If you are taking a private charter, ask the driver for a short detour along the Iroha Slope. This winding mountain road is especially popular for its autumn leaves in the fall, giving you one of the most astonishing views of autumn in Japan.

If you're planning your autumn trip and want help working out the train timings, booking the private charter, or arranging your ryokan stay, that's exactly what we're here for. Hit us up — we're always happy to help. 😉

Coming to Japan during summer? Read this first.
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