Mooncakes 2025 | The Ultimate Guide to Made in Hong Kong: Lava Custard, Local Shops & Early Bird Deals

Best Hong Kong Mooncakes 2025 | The Ultimate Guide: Lava Custard, Local Shops & Early Bird Deals
A promotional image for the 2025 Hong Kong Mooncake Guide, showing a variety of beautifully packaged mooncakes.

The annual Mid-Autumn Festival is just around the corner, and what’s a celebration without mooncakes? 🌕 Every year, the Kan's Best Pick editorial team rounds up the best 'Made in Hong Kong' mooncake selections. What's new this year? Let 'Little Bear Editor' walk you through the latest 2025 local mooncake news, from new flavors and exciting collaborations to early bird discounts. Get all the info in one place and be the first to order your favorites!

2025 Made in Hong Kong Mooncake Guide

Brand 2025 Highlights Price Early Bird Offer Quick Link
La Lune (望月) New Flavors: Lava Pistachio, Lava Black Sesame & Cashew
Collabs: Creamy Mami, LuLu the Piggy		 From HK$178 Until Aug 26 View Details
Mirai Bakery Brand new snowy mooncake series, featuring Dubai Pistachio and D24 Durian flavors. From HK$128 Until Jul 30 View Details
Valarie New Flavors: Lava Chocolate Hazelnut, Uji Hojicha
Others: Lava Custard, Matcha, Earl Grey, etc.		 From HK$178 Until Jul 25 View Details
Savewo Collab: Relaunching the Evangelion mooncake gift box (Reprint Edition), including a Spear of Longinus-shaped cutter. From HK$368 Pre-order ends early Aug View Details
Guru Innovative Crust: Unique "Golden Momoyama x Butter Cookie x Chinese Pastry" 3-in-1 crust.
Flavors: Refreshing fruit fillings like Lychee and Pineapple.		 From $198 Early bird up to 30% off View Details
Beans Traditional Mooncake Series
Egg Yolk Custard, Double Yolk White Lotus Seed Paste		 From HK$178 Until Aug 18 View Details
Yellowland (小皇國) Signature: Super Lava Custard Mooncake (Cat/Shiba Inu Edition)
Traditional: Double Yolk White Lotus Seed Paste Mooncake		 From HK$162 Limited-time early bird offer View Details

La Lune (望月)

Famous for capturing the hearts of mooncake lovers with its "Lava Custard Mooncake", La Lune is always a hot topic. Besides their classic custard and lava series, this year's collaborations are just as exciting!

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • Collaboration Series: This year, they've teamed up with two super popular icons—the classic magical girl Creamy Mami, the Magic Angel and the adorable "LuLu the Piggy"—to launch limited-edition mooncake sets. The designs are exquisite and definitely collector's items!

    • La Lune 2025 mooncake collaboration gift box with Creamy Mami.
  • New Flavors: In partnership with local dessert shop "Yin Heung," they've introduced the new "Lava Pistachio Mooncake" and "Lava Black Sesame & Cashew Mooncake," blending Hong Kong-style dessert flavors into mooncakes.

    • La Lune's 2025 Lava Pistachio and Black Sesame & Cashew mooncakes.

  • Classic Series: Of course, their signature "Lava Custard Mooncake" and "Classic Custard Mooncake" are back. They also offer the "Lava Matcha Mooncake," "Matcha Red Bean Mooncake," and the "Traditional Mooncake Series" (Double Yolk White Lotus Seed and Double Yolk Golden Lotus Seed) for gifting to elders.
    • La Lune's classic lava custard mooncakes for 2025.

Early Bird Discount

From now until August 26, 2025, enjoy early bird prices on mooncake orders.

Order Now

Mirai Bakery

Worried about not having snowy mooncakes this year after the closure of a major brand? Mirai Bakery is stepping up with a delicate snowy mooncake series, delivered via cold chain to ensure freshness.

Mirai Bakery's 2025 Dubai Pistachio Snowy Mooncake.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • Brand New Snowy Series: A range of limited-edition snowy mooncakes made with premium ingredients.
  • Flavors Include:
    • "Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Snowy Mooncake"
    • "Pistachio Mochi Mooncake"
    • "Extra Rich D24 Durian Mooncake"
    • "Lava Pistachio Custard Snowy Mooncake"
    • "Lava Pistachio Snowy Mooncake"

Early Bird Discount

From now until July 30, 2025, get HK$20 off the original price per box.

Order Now

Valarie

Specializing in lava mooncakes, Valarie receives rave reviews every year. This year, alongside their classics, they're offering new flavors and a customizable assortment option.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • New Flavors: Introducing the new "Lava Chocolate Hazelnut Mooncake" and the rich, aromatic "Uji Hojicha Mooncake" to satisfy tea and chocolate lovers.
    • Valarie's new Lava Chocolate Hazelnut Mooncake for 2025.
  • Other Signature Flavors: Also offering a range of popular choices, including "Lava Custard Mooncake," "Lava Uji Matcha Mooncake," "Lava Earl Grey Mooncake," and "Tangerine Peel Red Bean with Egg Yolk Mooncake."

Early Bird Discount

A limited-time "discount on discount" offer is available on their website until July 25, with up to 16% off for the nine-piece box and up to 36% off for the four-piece box.

Order Now

Savewo x Evangelion

Savewo is re-releasing the "EVANGELION FLY ME TO THE MOON" 3D metal relief deluxe mooncake gift box (Reprint Edition)! The box design is highly collectible and is definitely one of the most eye-catching collaborations this Mid-Autumn Festival!

Savewo x Evangelion 2025 Mooncake Gift Box Reprint Edition.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • The Ultimate Collab: The gift box is themed around Neon Genesis Evangelion, featuring a stained-glass style 3D relief design that exquisitely restores the EVA mechs.
  • Deluxe Contents: Inside are six 'Made in Hong Kong' lava mooncakes (two each of green tea, milk tea, and chocolate), each stamped with the NERV logo.
  • Collector's Accessories: The most appealing part of each box is the included special EVA metal mooncake cutter inspired by the "Spear of Longinus," as well as a full set of 3 character trading cards!

Early Bird Discount

Pre-orders are now open, expected to close in early August, with shipments beginning in early September. Limited quantities available, while supplies last!

Pre-order Now

Guru (guruguru_hk)

Insisting on being made in Hong Kong and constantly innovating, local shop Guru's mooncakes are full of sincerity this year. The crust alone is a delightful surprise, aiming to break the mold of traditional, overly sweet mooncakes!

Guru's innovative 2025 Golden Momoyama mooncake series.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • Original 3-in-1 Crust: The biggest highlight this year! It cleverly combines Japanese wagashi "Golden Momoyama," Western "French Fermented Butter Cookie," and traditional Chinese mooncake pastry. You get the fragrance of salted egg yolk with a hint of butter cookie, creating an incredibly rich texture!
  • Fresh Fruit Series: The fillings feature four refreshing fruit flavors, including Lychee, Taiwanese Pineapple, Orange, and Yuzu, breaking the stereotype of overly sweet mooncakes.

Early Bird Discount

Enjoy discounts of up to 30% off.

Shop Now

Beans

Popular café "Beans" continues to offer its beloved classic mooncake series this year, made with high-quality ingredients in its own Hong Kong workshop, perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment.

Beans' traditional mooncake gift box for 2025.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • Classic Flavors Return: This year focuses on two of the most popular traditional flavors: the rich and fragrant "Egg Yolk Custard Mooncake" and the classic "Double Yolk White Lotus Seed Paste Mooncake," perfect for elders.
  • Made in Hong Kong Workshop: Both mooncake types come in a box of four and are freshly made in their own Hong Kong factory, ensuring quality.

Early Bird Discount

From now until August 18, you can pre-order mooncake vouchers at the early bird price of HK$178 (Original Price: HK$218).

Shop Now

Yellowland (小皇國)

Local shop "Yellowland's" mooncakes are back! This year, besides the adorable cat design cover, they also have the fan-favorite "Shiba Inu Special Edition" to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with everyone.

Yellowland's 2025 mooncake series featuring cat and shiba inu designs.

This Year's Flavors & Features

  • Super Lava Custard Mooncake: The signature lava custard mooncake (six per box), available in two designs: a gold-foiled "Cat Cover" and a "Shiba Inu Special Edition." Each box comes with a special Ema (wooden wishing plaque)!
  • Traditional Double Yolk White Lotus Seed: Also offering the traditional "Double Yolk White Lotus Seed Paste Mooncake" (four per box), perfect for gifting to elders, which also includes an Ema.

Early Bird Discount

Early bird offer is now available. The "Super Lava Custard Mooncake" is priced at HK$162 (Original: $188), and the "Double Yolk White Lotus Seed Paste Mooncake" is priced at HK$188 (Original: $218).

Shop Now

More Local Gems to Watch...

The following local shops brought us delightful surprises last year but have not yet announced their 2025 mooncake details. We will keep this page updated!

  • Four-Y-Bread & Cake (四喜麵包西餅): Famous for its freshly baked mooncakes that draw long queues every year. Keep an eye on their Facebook page.
  • THAT. (那個): Specializing in Taiwanese cuisine, their light-up gift box last year was incredibly unique. Follow their Instagram for updates.
  • Lyb Yummy (享樂烘焙): Known for their "chilled buns," Lyb Yummy releases mooncakes annually. Details for this year are yet to be announced.

Wishing everyone a happy Mid-Autumn Festival!

Tokyo | teamLab Planets TOKYO: The Ultimate Guide & Review

teamLab Planets TOKYO: The Ultimate Guide & Review
Promotional image for teamLab Planets TOKYO guide

In our Tokyo travel community, 【Tokyo Japan Travel, Food & Backpacking】, many members have asked if teamLab Planets in Toyosu is worth adding to their itinerary. On my latest trip to Tokyo, I made a special visit to teamLab Planets TOKYO to bring you this detailed analysis!



The Complete Guide to the teamLab Planets TOKYO Immersive Art Experience

teamLab Planets TOKYO

teamLab has exhibitions all over the world, but teamLab Planets TOKYO focuses on a "body immersive" experience with its "Museum Where You Walk Through Water" and "Garden Where You Become One with the Flowers." It features four massive art spaces and two gardens. Visitors explore the exhibition barefoot, creating a unique, immersive experience with others through touch, sight, and sound as they become part of the giant artworks.

On average, one in every ten foreign tourists in Japan visits this exhibition. Since its opening in 2018 and celebrating its fifth anniversary, the exhibition has announced that its run will be extended to the end of 2027, with updated and new works to enhance the immersive enjoyment.

How to Get to teamLab Planets TOKYO

The exterior of teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu.

teamLab Planets TOKYO is located in Toyosu. Whether you're coming from Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, or Shinagawa, you can take the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and get off at Toyosu Market Station (a 5-minute walk) or take the Yurikamome Line from JR Shimbashi Station and get off at Shin-Toyosu Station (a 1-minute walk).

Although there are buses from places like Shinjuku, they are often crowded with long waiting times. We recommend using the train for a more convenient journey.

View of Shin-Toyosu Station near teamLab Planets.

teamLab Planets TOKYO Tickets

Tickets for teamLab Planets TOKYO can be purchased on travel booking platforms like Klook and on the official website.

▌ Book on Klook (Click here to book)

Klook booking page for teamLab Planets Tokyo tickets.

Booking on Klook is very convenient with an English interface and instant ticket confirmation. Just show the QR code at the entrance during your selected time slot! They also offer a "skip-the-line" pass for travelers who want to save time.

Klook.com

▌Official Website Booking

You can also book tickets on the official teamLab Planets TOKYO website. Simply select a date, see the available time slots, and complete the booking. The process is also quite simple.

Screenshot of the official teamLab Planets TOKYO booking website.

We recommend planning ahead and booking early, as this attraction is extremely popular with tourists. Same-day slots are rarely available, and you often need to book two weeks to a month in advance!

Our Experience at teamLab Planets TOKYO

After arriving at our scheduled time, we followed the signs to queue up. The queues for different time slots are separate, so pay attention to the signs. We were about fifteen minutes late but were fortunately still allowed to enter directly!

The entrance and queue area at teamLab Planets TOKYO.

At the entrance, visitors are let in by groups. First, you'll stop in an area to watch an instruction video, which explains that you'll need to take off your shoes and socks and that your pants might get wet. Also, because some exhibits have mirrored floors, those wearing short skirts should be aware of the risk of reflections.

Locker area at teamLab Planets where visitors remove their shoes.

First, you'll head to the locker area. Here, you need to store large items like backpacks and go barefoot for the rest of the exhibition.

▌Waterfall of Light Particles on a Slope

A person walking up the 'Waterfall of Light Particles on a Slope' exhibit.

The first artwork you encounter is the "Waterfall of Light Particles on a Slope." Various lights are projected onto flowing water to create a waterfall. As you walk barefoot into the increasingly deep water, it feels like you're climbing a hill while your feet get a nice wash.

▌Soft Black Hole

People resting in the 'Soft Black Hole' beanbag room.

In a flash, you'll find yourself in the "Soft Black Hole," a space filled with beanbags. Here, you can freely roll around and relax on the soft surface, setting the stage for more sensory experiences to come.

Klook.com
A long, dark corridor with red lighting.

After passing through a long, dark red corridor with calming music that feels like a spiritual cleanse, you slowly enter the next area: "The Infinite Crystal Universe."

▌The Infinite Crystal Universe

Visitor standing in the middle of 'The Infinite Crystal Universe' exhibit.

Immersed in a space filled with crystals and refracted light, it feels like being among shooting stars. The lights change color periodically, and the mirrored walls and floor create an infinite extension. Any photo taken here looks beautiful, even if you're not a great photographer!

Selfie in the dazzling lights of 'The Infinite Crystal Universe'.

▌Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People

Visitor walking through knee-deep water with projected koi fish.

The next area is even more interactive. You step into calf-deep water. What for? It turns out to be a giant koi pond! Colorfully projected koi "swim" in the water, and when they touch visitors, they transform into flowers, like cherry blossoms in spring or red maple leaves in autumn. It's incredibly fun!

▌Expanding Three-Dimensional Existence in Transforming Space

Visitor among giant, color-changing spheres.

Towels are provided to dry your feet before you move to the next space, which is filled with giant white spheres. You can freely push and move the spheres, and their colors will change! Here's a little secret: when it's crowded, you can use the giant white balls to block out other people from your photos!

A different colored view of the sphere room.

It’s also worth noting that this area features twelve different light colors. Besides red, blue, and green, there are nine traditional Japanese color schemes, including Light in Water, Sunlight, Morning Glow, Morning Sky, Twilight Sky, Peach, Plum, Iris, and Spring Maple. Which colors did you manage to capture?

Klook.com

▌Floating in the Falling Universe of Flowers

Feeling a bit tired? The next exhibition area is absolutely stunning! It's like being in a planetarium cinema. You can lie on the floor and gaze at the flowers that surround the entire space, watching the therapeutic cycle of blooming and withering.

Suddenly, you're back at the locker area. But don't forget, there's still one more exhibition area to see! Pass through the other side of the locker area to reach the garden section. Since this is an outdoor experience, the park provides slippers so you don't have to worry about hurting your feet—so thoughtful!

▌Floating Flower Garden

This is definitely the most popular and IG-worthy exhibition area online. To maintain the quality of the experience, entry to this space is done in batches, so you'll need to queue and wait for the staff to let you in to take photos among the flowers.

Visitor standing in the middle of the 'Floating Flower Garden'.

Normally, flowers grow from the ground, but here it's like an inverted space. The flowers hang from the ceiling, and with the infinite reflections from the mirrored surfaces, you feel like you're in a dreamlike garden. It's a must-see photo spot! The flowers are mainly orchids, so the air in this space is filled with a wonderful floral scent.

▌Moss Garden of Resonating Microcosms

The outdoor Moss Garden with ovoid sculptures.

Countless "giant eggs" are scattered across the mossy ground. Depending on the weather, they take on different appearances at different times. At night, they light up in as many as 61 colors and emit different sounds based on human interaction—very interesting!

▌Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky

The digital fire pillar art installation outside.

It turns out the pillar outside the entrance is also an exhibit! When people get close, it generates a black image that changes the shape of the flame. I've heard you can also use the official app's AR feature to receive and send flame images, making it even more playful!

Final Thoughts & Review

A full visit to teamLab Planets TOKYO takes about an hour and a half. Because the interactive exhibits are not pre-recorded but rather respond to human interaction, every visit is a unique experience. Compared to other recent outdoor dome installations, teamLab Planets TOKYO is more thoughtfully designed in terms of its route and sensory experiences. It's truly worth a visit, which explains why it's a hot spot visited by one in every ten foreign tourists!

If you're planning your trip, hurry and buy your tickets to try it out! If you've already been, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with us!

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo
Transportation: 1-minute walk from Shin-Toyosu Station (Yurikamome Line) / 5-minute walk from Toyosu Market Station (Yurakucho Line)
Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Please check the official website for closed days)
Official Website: Link
Book Tickets: Klook

Klook.com

Hiking @ Hong Kong | Tai Mo Shan - An Easy Morning Trail to a Traditional Dim Sum Teahouse

Tai Mo Shan Hike: An Easy Morning Trail to a Traditional Dim Sum Teahouse
A graphic showing a map of the Tai Mo Shan hiking route and pictures of dim sum.

How about waking up to a refreshing morning hike? After soaking in the nature, reward yourself by heading for some traditional "yum cha" to enjoy classic dim sum. It's the perfect, chill day out, and you can find it right here in Hong Kong! One trip to Tai Mo Shan, our city's "big mountain," can make this perfect day a reality.

Discover Tai Mo Shan Country Park ⛰️

Tai Mo Shan, literally "Big Hat Mountain," is Hong Kong's highest peak, standing tall at 957 meters—a full 23 meters higher than the second-highest, Lantau Peak. Despite its height, the area is surprisingly accessible. From downtown Tsuen Wan, the KMB bus route 51 will get you to the "Tai Mo Shan Country Park" stop in just about 20 minutes. Its convenience attracts plenty of hikers and nearby residents looking for a great workout spot.

For those new to camping, the Tsuen Kam Campsite next to Rotary Park is an excellent starting point, complete with a water supply.

The scenic and winding Route Twisk runs through the country park, making it a popular route for a "morning drive." The park is well-equipped with metered parking spaces, so if you arrive early, you won't have to worry about finding a spot!

Our Recommended Tai Mo Shan Morning Hike Route

Here’s a personally recommended, super easy morning hike route that's perfect for everyone:

Tai Mo Shan Family Walk > Tai Mo Shan Hiking Practice Trail > Rotary Park Nature Trail > Dim Sum in Chuen Lung

Tai Mo Shan Family Walk

Map showing the start of the Tai Mo Shan Family Walk.

After getting off at the "Tai Mo Shan Country Park" bus stop, cross the road towards the Tai Mo Shan Road metered car park. Next to the Tsuen Kam Campsite, you'll find the entrance to the Tai Mo Shan Family Walk. This paved, gentle path is only 500 meters long and circles Rotary Park. It's incredibly flat and easy, making it a stress-free walk for families with children and pets.

Tai Mo Shan Hiking Practice Trail / Rotary Park Nature Trail

A signpost on the trail pointing towards Chuen Lung.

Instead of circling back to the start, continue downhill from the Family Walk, and you'll merge onto the Tai Mo Shan Hiking Practice Trail. Follow the signs pointing towards "Chuen Lung", which will connect you to the Rotary Park Nature Trail for the rest of the descent. The path is clear and well-maintained, making for an easy and pleasant walk down the mountain.

Lush green path on the Rotary Park Nature Trail.

Time for Dim Sum in Chuen Lung! 🥢

The entrance to Chuen Lung Village.

As the sounds of traffic grow louder, you'll realize you've reached the end of the trail! Welcome to Chuen Lung, a village famous for its two traditional Chinese teahouses: Duen Kee Teahouse and Choi Lung Teahouse. Both are decades-old institutions renowned for their delicious, self-service, homemade dim sum.

Choi Lung Teahouse is conveniently located right by the main road, next to the "Chuen Lung" bus stop. To get to Duen Kee Teahouse, you'll need to walk a bit deeper into the village.

Both teahouses have their own car parks. Choi Lung's car park is at the end of the village road with about 20 spaces. Note that you'll need to pay a $50 parking fee upfront, but you'll receive a $50 cash coupon that can be used to pay your bill at the teahouse.

A view of the outdoor seating at a Chuen Lung teahouse.

Choi Lung Teahouse (彩龍茶樓)

The vibrant red sign of Choi Lung Teahouse.

With its bright red sign, Choi Lung Teahouse is hard to miss. It offers plenty of outdoor seating on both sides, making it a great pet-friendly option.

A plate of fresh local vegetables. Steamed buns in a traditional bamboo steamer. A dish of fried sa-om, a chinese-style donut. A variety of delicious dim sum dishes on a table.

Their dim sum is famous for being delicious, generously portioned, and affordable. You'll find a wide variety of choices! Must-try signature items include the fluffy Sa-om (a sweet, fried Chinese donut), Siu Mai with Quail Egg, and Water Chestnut Cake. Don't forget to order their locally grown vegetables, which are incredibly fresh!

For all this food, the value is amazing. A satisfying meal with eight dim sum dishes will only cost you around $200 HKD. It's an absolute bargain!

So, have you ever tried pairing a morning hike with a hearty dim sum meal? Share your favorite hike-and-eat itineraries with us!

Karuizawa Travel Guide | The Ultimate 1 Day Itinerary for Tokyo Nearby Destination

Karuizawa Day Trip Guide: The Ultimate Itinerary from Tokyo
Karuizawa Day Trip from Tokyo Guide

Karuizawa is one of the most popular destinations near Tokyo. Famous for its beautiful scenery and convenient access—just an hour from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen—it's a beloved vacation spot even for locals! So, what are the must-see attractions? How should you plan your itinerary? This article provides the ultimate guide to Karuizawa, making it easy to add this suburban trip to your Tokyo itinerary. Let's experience the unique charm of Karuizawa together!

Karuizawa Day Trip from Tokyo

Karuizawa Day Trip｜Where is Karuizawa?

What's your first impression of "Karuizawa"? A massive outlet mall for shopping sprees, or the family-friendly Karuizawa Prince Ski Resort in winter?

Karuizawa Station exterior in winter with snow
In the eyes of the Japanese, Karuizawa is a very popular summer retreat. Located on a plateau 1,000 meters above sea level in Nagano Prefecture, the average temperature during the hot summer is only around 20°C (68°F). With pleasant scenery and climate year-round, it's no wonder it attracts tourists throughout the year!


Karuizawa Day Trip｜Getting to Karuizawa from Tokyo

Getting from Tokyo to Karuizawa is very convenient, with the fastest journey taking just one hour.

▌From Tokyo/Ueno - Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

Hokuriku Shinkansen train arriving at Karuizawa Station
From Tokyo, the fastest way is undoubtedly the "Hokuriku Shinkansen." You can board at 【Tokyo Station】 or 【Ueno Station】 for a direct ride to Karuizawa. Depending on the train service, the journey takes about 60 to 80 minutes. A one-way non-reserved seat ticket costs ¥5,490 from Tokyo Station and ¥5,280 from Ueno Station.

JR Tokyo Wide Pass advertisement inside a train station
The one-way fare might seem pricey. If your itinerary includes visits to three or more destinations near Tokyo (like Nikko, Izu, or Kawaguchiko), consider getting the "JR TOKYO Wide Pass" (¥15,000 for adults). It offers unlimited rides on all JR East trains and Shinkansens, including the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Tohoku Shinkansen, and the Narita Express, for three consecutive days. A round trip to Karuizawa combined with another day trip already makes the pass worthwhile!
Klook.com



▌From Tokyo City - Highway Bus

You can also take a highway bus from central Tokyo. Buses to Karuizawa depart from Tokyo Station, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Shinagawa. The fare is cheaper than the Shinkansen (from ¥2,500 one-way, ¥4,500 round-trip), but the journey is longer and subject to traffic, taking about 3-4 hours. This is better suited for travelers staying in Karuizawa for more than a day.


▌From Tokyo City - Chartered Car / Rental Car

For a more relaxed tour of Tokyo's suburbs without being tied to train or bus schedules, you can opt for a chartered car or self-drive. Local chartered car services offer English-speaking drivers and customizable itineraries, making them ideal for family trips.
Klook.com


If you're using "Toyota Rent A Car," there's a convenient pick-up point right next to Karuizawa Station.

Toyota Rent a Car office near Karuizawa Station


Karuizawa Day Trip｜Attractions Map

Tourist map of Karuizawa area

To help you plan your day trip, I've created a "Karuizawa Attractions Google Map":



Karuizawa's attractions are mainly divided into three areas: the Prince Hotel Area near the station, the Kyu-Karuizawa (Old Karuizawa) Area, and the Hoshino Area.

◆ Prince Hotel Area: Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza Outlet, Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort, Karuizawa Prince Hotel
◆ Kyu-Karuizawa Area: Kumoba Pond, St. Paul's Catholic Church, Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street
◆ Hoshino Area: Hoshino Resorts, Karuizawa Kogen Church, Stone Church, Shiraito Falls, Hoshino Onsen, etc.


Karuizawa Day Trip｜Getting Around Karuizawa

The three areas—Prince Hotel Area, Kyu-Karuizawa Area, and Hoshino Area—are somewhat spread out. So how should you plan your travel between them?

If you can ride a bike, you can rent one from "Shironeko Cycle" at the North Exit of Karuizawa Station. The roads in town are flat, making cycling effortless.

Bicycle rental sign in Japanese in Karuizawa
For travel between Karuizawa Station and the Hoshino or Kyu-Karuizawa areas, you can take the Seibu Kanko Bus (for Hoshino Area) or the Kusakaru Kotsu Bus (for Kyu-Karuizawa). However, services are infrequent, so it's best to check the timetable before you go. Both can be boarded at the bus terminal at the North Exit of Karuizawa Station.

Bus stop signs at Karuizawa Station North Exit

If you plan to stay in Karuizawa for about three hours or more and the weather is good, walking is also a great option. Just like on my Karuizawa day trip, I explored all the sights on foot!

Attractions｜1. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

View of Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza with its lake and shops
The most popular attraction in Karuizawa is definitely the Prince Shopping Plaza! Located right next to the station, this is a massive brand outlet mall. Major brands like Adidas, Aigle, Coach, GAP, Gucci, Prada, Nike, YSL, and more have stores here, offering significant discounts. It's a great place for a shopping spree!

Lawn and seating area within the Karuizawa outlet mall

If you're traveling with your furry friend, this place is also pet-friendly, so you can shop together!

Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0102
 Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Food court until 10:00 PM)
 Access: Exit of Karuizawa Shinkansen Station
 Official Website: Click here


Attractions｜2. Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort

This ski resort is one of the most family-friendly ski destinations near Tokyo, with sixteen trails of varying difficulty. It's typically open from November to late March. With five beginner and children's trails and a dedicated kids' snow park, it's an excellent place for ski novices or anyone wanting to try skiing.

Trail map of Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort


If you plan to ski, remember to book lift tickets and ski equipment online in advance for early-bird discounts! Several Prince Hotels are located right next door, making it a perfect winter itinerary to stay overnight for an extra day.

Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort
Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano 389-0102
 Access: Exit of Karuizawa Shinkansen Station
 Official Website: Click here


Attractions｜3. St. Paul's Catholic Church

Exterior of St. Paul's Catholic Church in Karuizawa, a wooden A-frame building

Karuizawa has many churches, and St. Paul's Catholic Church in Old Karuizawa is particularly distinctive. Designed in 1935 by Czech architect Antonin Raymond, its extensive use of wood is very appealing!

Wooden interior of St. Paul's Catholic Church

When visiting a church for the first time, don't forget to go inside and make three sincere wishes!

View of the pipe organ loft in the church

It features a large pipe organ, and many couples choose to get married here!

St. Paul's Catholic Church (聖パウロカトリック教会)
Address: 179 Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
 Access: About 10 mins by bike from Karuizawa Shinkansen Station


Attractions｜4. Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street in winter with snow falling at dusk

Karuizawa has a history of over a hundred years, and the Old Ginza Street is its most bustling souvenir street! It's about a 5-minute bus ride or a 10-minute bike ride from Karuizawa Station. Here you can buy many souvenirs, such as Western-style sweets from Shirakabado and local jams. Arriving at dusk, the sunset combined with falling snow is absolutely enchanting!

Another view of the snowy Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street at night

Attractions｜5. Kumoba Pond

Scenic view of Kumoba Pond in winter, with snow-covered trees and a wooden walkway
This is an absolute must-visit spot in Karuizawa! "Kumoba Pond" (Kumoba-ike), also known as "Swan Lake," is about a ten-minute bike ride or a 20-minute walk from Karuizawa Station.

Ducks on the snowy bank of Kumoba Pond
It got its nickname because many swans gather here. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. When I visited in winter, the frozen lake surface combined with snowfall was a breathtaking sight!

A tranquil winter scene at Kumoba Pond

Kumoba Pond (雲場池)
Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Access: About 10 mins by bike from Karuizawa Shinkansen Station


Attractions｜6. Shiraito Falls

The wide cascade of Shiraito Falls

"Shiraito no Taki" (Shiraito Falls) is another popular spot, especially with tour groups. The waterfall is about 70 meters wide, with water constantly flowing out from the forest, creating a beautiful scene. However, this attraction is quite far from other spots in Karuizawa, so consider your schedule before deciding to visit. (Image from Shizuoka Tourism Bureau)

Shiraito Falls (白糸の滝)
Address: Shiraito no Taki, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Access: About 20 mins by Kusakaru Kotsu Bus from Karuizawa Shinkansen Station


Attractions｜7. Karuizawa Kogen Church

Karuizawa Kogen Church, a large wooden A-frame church, surrounded by forest

Founded in 1921, Kogen Church is the oldest church in Karuizawa. Its giant triangular wooden architecture, set amidst a dense forest, is truly captivating. (Image from official website)


Karuizawa Kogen Church
Address: Hoshino, Karuizawa-machi, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Official Website: Click here


Attractions｜8. Stone Church Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Hall

The unique arched architecture of the Stone Church

In addition to the two wooden churches mentioned above, the "Stone Church" has a one-of-a-kind design. It is considered one of the top five churches in Japan! (Image from official website)

Stone Church (石の教会 内村鑑三記念堂)
Address: Hoshino, Karuizawa-machi, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Official Website: Click here


Attractions｜9. Harunire Terrace

Wooden decks and shops of Harunire Terrace lit up at night

Located near the Hoshino Resort area, "Harunire Terrace" (Elm Tree Town) is composed of nine wooden buildings housing cafes, souvenir shops, and famous restaurants like "Maruyama Coffee" and "Kawakami-an." It's a great place to stroll around! (Image from Hoshino Resort)


Harunire Terrace (榆樹街小鎮)
Address: 2148 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (varies by store)
Official Website: Click here


Must-Eats｜ASANOYA Bakery

Exterior of ASANOYA Bakery on Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street

Located on Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street, "ASANOYA Bakery," founded in 1933, is a must-try with nearly a century of history. It's a paradise for bread lovers!

Interior of ASANOYA Bakery with display of various breads
They offer bread made with various local Shinshu ingredients, and it's always crowded when fresh batches come out of the oven. You can get takeout or sit inside, enjoying soft, delicious bread while watching the snow fall on Ginza Street!

A person eating a pastry inside ASANOYA Bakery

We were also lucky enough to see an adorable Shiba Inu taking a stroll here!

A cute Shiba Inu dog on a leash outside the bakery

ASANOYA Bakery
Address: 738 Kyu-Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Official Website: Click here


Must-Eats｜Terakoya Honpo

Freshly grilled rice crackers on skewers at Terakoya Honpo
This shop, "Terakoya Honpo," specializes in senbei (rice crackers) made from 100% glutinous rice, as well as dango, dorayaki, and ice cream. Everything is made with local Shinshu miso, perfect for warming up on a cold winter day!


Terakoya Honpo
Address: 570 Kyu-Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Official Website: Click here



Must-Eats｜Onzoushi Kiyoyasu-an

Sizzling hamburg steak and curry on a hot plate
I found this place near the station in the evening. It's a family-style restaurant serving hamburg steak and curry in the "Aji no Machi" (Taste Town) section of the Prince Shopping Plaza. I initially chose it simply because it was less crowded and the wait was short, which was convenient for catching my train back to Tokyo. However, the sizzling plate curry was surprisingly good and worth adding to your list.


Onzoushi Kiyoyasu-an
Address: Inside Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Official Website: Click here


Must-Visit｜Snoopy Village

Entrance to the two-story Snoopy Village shop in Karuizawa

Snoopy fans, you can't miss this! The Snoopy Village in Karuizawa is a two-story shop with plenty of Karuizawa-exclusive Snoopy merchandise and a themed cafe!

Snoopy-themed food items from the cafe
Exclusive Snoopy merchandise available at the shop



Snoopy Village
Address: 800 Kyu-Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano
 Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Official Website: Click here


Must-Buy Souvenirs in Karuizawa

Located in the Shinshu region, Karuizawa's most famous products are, of course, local specialties! Must-buy souvenirs include jams, handicrafts, Shinshu wagashi (Japanese sweets), and beer, which can be found in souvenir shops at the station, Ginza Street, and Harunire Terrace. Here are some of my finds from Karuizawa:


A whole Shinshu apple pie dessert

This is a must-buy! A dessert made with a whole Shinshu apple, featuring flaky pastry wrapped around a delicious apple cake filling!

Packaged fresh soba noodles souvenir

Fresh soba noodles, so you can cook them at home and savor the taste of Karuizawa!

An award-winning baumkuchen cake

This award-winning baumkuchen (tree cake) tastes amazing!

Shinshu-limited edition Apple flavored KitKats

Shinshu-limited KitKats!


Karuizawa's nights are also beautiful! Strolling through the streets, seeing the quaint buildings under a blue and crimson sky feels like being in an ancient town. Plus, the limited-time Christmas illuminations were simply stunning!

Christmas lights illuminating a snowy street in Karuizawa at night


Before leaving, don't forget to get a commemorative stamp at Karuizawa Station!

Commemorative station stamp for Karuizawa Station


Finally, amidst a snowy landscape, we completed our Karuizawa day trip.

Snow covering the ground and trees on a street in Karuizawa



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