Ancient Hotel Karuizawa — Hotel in Karuizawa

When one ventures into the realm of unparalleled service and hospitality, certain cultures and terminologies come to mind. The Japanese, for instance, have gifted the world with the concept of "Omotenashi," an intricate weave of selflessness and attentive care. However, following my recent sojourn at this elusive hotel, I can't help but feel that the word "Omotenashi" falls short of capturing the depth and magnitude of the experience.

Service, in many places, is often a mechanistic process - a routine act delivered without much thought. At this establishment, the service transcends mere hospitality. It is evident in the meticulous attention to detail in every corner of the space. It resonates in the genuine warmth of every interaction, where the staff seem to anticipate your needs even before they form in your mind. It's in the very rhythm of the place, in those quiet pauses between destinations and activities, where one is allowed a moment's respite, a gentle reminder of the world's beauty.

It's a challenge, an almost Herculean task, to encapsulate the essence of such an experience in mere words. To write a review for this hotel is like trying to capture the vastness of the ocean in a single cup. It's both an endeavor and an injustice. The ineffable magic of the experience defies straightforward description, leaving one grappling for phrases and adjectives that seem perpetually inadequate.

While a part of me wishes to keep this gem a closely guarded secret, a haven untouched by the overwhelming tide of modern tourism, I pen down this review out of sheer gratitude. Gratitude for an experience that has elevated my understanding of hospitality and care. Gratitude for memories that will linger, long after the scent of the hotel's linens has faded.

To anyone contemplating a stay here, I offer a simple assurance: You will depart with a heart full of gratitude and the gentle certainty that you've experienced something profoundly beautiful. You will never regret your stay...

One of my best friends always talked about their great experience when they stayed at this hotel, so I decided to spend one night with my girlfriend. ||||The hotel staff members were so friendly and courteous. At the time of the arrival, they took us to some vacant rooms and explained the concept of respective rooms. We were amazed at how elaborate each concept of the rooms was. The room at which we stayed was a mountain hut style with a fireplace and a bath, which gave us dreamlike moments. After taking that bath, we also went to the hotel public bath (the outdoor bath). The amount of snow appeared to be very small this year, but I was able to enjoy the chilled weather with some snow from the outdoor bath.||||The dinner (main dish: Shinshu Wagyu Sukiyaki) and the breakfast used local and seasonal ingredients, which were, of course, absolutely delicious. It seems that this hotel has not only magnificent rooms/staff but also the great chef. Fabulous cuisine made us speechless.||||We wanted to stay more, but...the dreamlike moment never lasts forever. I appreciated my friend who recommend this hotel. I will definitely come back as this hotel has the variety of the room and the...

Stayed here for one night in May. One of the receptionist speaks ok English and was always extremely helpful. There’s a notice on the website saying the staff doesn’t speak English but Reiko explained everything there was to explain so this was not an issue at all for us..

The location is pretty remote a good 15’ from Karuizawa. Away from it all kind of thing in the middle of the woods.

Rooms are spacious and quirky with each one individually decorated. Hotel is pretty design with nice touches like CD vintage player in the room and a collection of CDs to chose from in the library.

Special mention to the Restaurant that serves us a truly spectacular dinner. I do not say this lightly but it was one of the best we had in Japan. Michelin star restaurants included. Really that good. We were genuinely surprised.

The “western” style Japanese breakfast less impressive. But you can always ask for some eggs on the side if you need.

Onsen is separate men and women but there’s a small family one if you need a private one for you and...