Mikasa Street (Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Thorough Explanation of the Larch Trees of the New Japan Street Trees Hundred Selections and the Charms of Four Seasons
Mikasa Street, located in Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture, is loved by many tourists as a representative walking path of Karuizawa. The approximately 2km route from the Old Karuizawa Rotary to the Old Mikasa Hotel is characterized by beautiful larch tree-lined avenues and is a renowned spot selected for the “New Japan Street Trees Hundred Selections.” This article provides a thorough explanation of the charms of Mikasa Street, covering seasonal highlights, historical background, and access methods.
What is Mikasa Street? Overview of Karuizawa’s Representative Tree-Lined Avenue
Mikasa Street is a tree-lined avenue approximately 2km in length connecting the Old Karuizawa Rotary, the center of Old Karuizawa, to the Old Mikasa Hotel, an Important Cultural Property. This road symbolizes Karuizawa’s villa culture and is beloved by local residents as well as tourists from across the nation.
Quiet villa districts spread on both sides of the road, creating an atmosphere characteristic of Karuizawa. Particularly striking are the larch (karamatsu) tree-lined avenue covering the road, creating a landscape like a natural tunnel.
Why Mikasa Street Was Selected for the New Japan Street Trees Hundred Selections
Mikasa Street was selected for the “New Japan Street Trees Hundred Selections” due to its beautiful scenery and historical value. The evenly planted larches display different appearances throughout the four seasons, continuing to captivate visitors. In particular, the arch-like space created by the trees maximizes the appeal of Karuizawa as a summer retreat destination.
This tree-lined avenue is not merely a road for transit, but is designed as a “road for walking” where visitors can experience Karuizawa’s nature and culture, and this value is highly appreciated.
History of Mikasa Street and Railway Heritage
In discussing the history of Mikasa Street, the existence of the Kusakaru Electric Railway that once ran through this area cannot be overlooked. Part of the current Mikasa Street was converted from this railway’s tracks into a road.
Traces of the Kusakaru Electric Railway
The section from the Old Karuizawa Station to Mikasa Station had railway tracks extending westward along the northbound Mikasa Street. After the line was abandoned, this section was converted into a road, becoming the present-day Mikasa Street. The elevated road section on the west side of the larch tree-lined avenue running northward is the former railway bed.
Knowing this historical background allows one to sense the remnants of the railway that once supported Karuizawa’s development when walking along Mikasa Street.
Relationship with the Old Mikasa Hotel
The Old Mikasa Hotel at the end of Mikasa Street is a purely Western-style wooden hotel that opened in 1905 (Meiji 38), also called the “Karuizawa Rokumeikan.” Mikasa Street was developed to connect this hotel with the Old Karuizawa commercial district and has functioned as an important thoroughfare for Karuizawa since that time.
Charms of Mikasa Street Through the Four Seasons
The greatest charm of Mikasa Street is that it displays different appearances depending on the season. Since larches are deciduous trees, visitors can enjoy unique landscapes in each of spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring: Sprouting of Fresh Foliage
Spring on Mikasa Street is the season when fresh buds of larch trees can be seen. From late April through May, trees that have slept through winter begin to unfurl young leaves all at once. The pale green new leaves are a symbolic sight announcing the arrival of spring in Karuizawa.
This season also has pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for walking and cycling. A walk in the fresh morning air allows you to feel the breath of spring with birdsong throughout your body.
Summer: The Refreshing Feeling of a Summer Retreat Destination
Summer on Mikasa Street allows visitors to experience why Karuizawa is popular as a summer retreat. The larch foliage becomes dense, blocking strong sunlight, allowing comfortable walking even in the height of summer.
The contrast of light and shadow created by dappled sunlight produces a beautiful summer landscape. At an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters, Karuizawa is 5-10 degrees cooler than lowlands, making it an ideal walking path for those seeking to escape the heat of urban areas.
Autumn: A Tunnel of Autumn Foliage
Autumn on Mikasa Street is the season with the most visiting tourists of the year. From mid-October through early November, larch leaves turn golden-yellow, and the entire road becomes a tunnel of autumn foliage.
The golden arch created by the tall larches is nothing short of spectacular. The sight of fallen leaves covering the path also has an aesthetic quality, captivating many photography enthusiasts as a landscape symbolizing autumn in Karuizawa. While the peak foliage viewing period varies with weather conditions, it typically peaks around October 20th in most years.
Winter: Silent Snowy Landscape
In winter, Mikasa Street is wrapped in a serene atmosphere as the leaf-bare larches are dusted with snow, and the number of tourists decreases. You can see Karuizawa in its original form as a quiet villa district.
Mikasa Street on a snowy day is beautiful like an ink wash painting. The delicate patterns created by snow accumulated on branches represent a winter charm not visible in other seasons. However, the road surface may be iced over, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes when visiting in winter.
Mikasa Street Walking Guide
Here is a walking guide to maximizing your enjoyment of Mikasa Street.
Time Required and Distance
The distance from the Old Karuizawa Rotary to the Old Mikasa Hotel is approximately 2km. Walking leisurely, one-way takes approximately 30-40 minutes, with a round trip taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. If taking photographs and enjoying the scenery, it is advisable to allow additional time.
Recommended Walking Route
Mikasa Street is basically a gentle uphill slope. Walking from the Old Karuizawa Rotary toward the Old Mikasa Hotel is uphill, while the return journey is downhill. For those without much stamina, it is also recommended to take a taxi to the Old Mikasa Hotel and then walk back downhill while sightseeing.
The road is relatively wide with well-maintained sidewalks, but cars do travel through, requiring caution. Particularly during the autumn foliage season when it is crowded, visiting early morning or on weekdays allows for quieter sightseeing.
Photography Spots
There are many excellent photography spots along Mikasa Street. Particularly recommended is the area near the entrance of the larch tree-lined avenue a short walk from the rotary. Photographing northward from here captures a beautiful composition of the tree-lined path extending into the distance.
Additionally, as one approaches the Old Mikasa Hotel, places where historical structures are visible between the trees are excellent photography points. As lighting changes with season and time of day, there are always new discoveries no matter how many times you visit.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Mikasa Street, it is recommended to also visit nearby tourist attractions.
Old Mikasa Hotel
The Old Mikasa Hotel at the end of Mikasa Street is a historical structure designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is among the oldest purely Western-style wooden hotels in Japan, and interior viewing is possible (fee required). It is a valuable spot where you can experience the atmosphere of Meiji and Taisho period Karuizawa.
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Located just a short walk from the Old Karuizawa Rotary, Old Karuizawa Ginza Street is a representative shopping street of Karuizawa. With souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants lined up, it is ideal for rest and dining after sightseeing.
Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel
A chapel commemorating Canadian missionary A.C. Shaw who developed Karuizawa as a summer retreat destination. It is close to Mikasa Street and allows visitors to learn about Karuizawa’s history.
Access Information
Here are access methods to Mikasa Street.
Access by Train
The nearest station is “Karuizawa Station” on the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen and Shinano Railway. From the station to the Old Karuizawa Rotary, the following options are available:
- Walking: Approximately 20 minutes (approximately 1.5km)
- Bus: Town circulation bus “Old Karuizawa” stop nearby
- Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes
- Rental Bicycle: Multiple rental bicycle shops near the station
Access by Car
Approximately 20 minutes from the “Usui Karuizawa IC” on the Joshin-etsu Expressway. However, the Old Karuizawa area is subject to traffic regulations during summer and autumn foliage season. Also, parking is limited, so public transportation is recommended.
Parking Information
There are several paid parking lots around the Old Karuizawa area, but they get crowded especially on weekends and during tourist seasons. It is better to arrive early or use parking lots around Karuizawa Station and move by bus or rental bicycle.
Precautions and Etiquette for Sightseeing on Mikasa Street
Clothing and Belongings
While Mikasa Street is a paved road, it involves approximately 2km of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Since Karuizawa is at high elevation and cooler than lowlands, prepare clothing appropriate for the season.
Even in summer, temperatures can drop in the morning and evening, so a light layer is reassuring. On days with strong sunshine, bring a hat and sunscreen. During the autumn foliage season in particular, temperatures drop notably, so take warm clothing precautions.
Etiquette and Precautions
Both sides of Mikasa Street are private villa districts. Avoid leaving the walking path and entering villa property. Also, always take trash with you and make efforts to protect the natural environment.
When walking on the vehicle road, be mindful of traffic. Particularly during the autumn foliage season when tourists are numerous, there is risk of stepping into the road, so walk safely.
Best Seasons to Enjoy Mikasa Street
While Mikasa Street can be enjoyed year-round, each season has its characteristics.
Autumn Foliage Season (mid-October to early November)
The season when the most tourists visit is the autumn foliage season. The golden leaves of the larches are breathtakingly beautiful, offering a special landscape only available during this time. However, weekends are extremely crowded, so visiting on weekdays or early morning is recommended.
Fresh Foliage Season (May to June)
The fresh foliage season from spring into early summer is also popular. It is less crowded than the autumn foliage season, allowing for leisurely sightseeing in fresh air.
Summer Retreat Season (July to August)
For those seeking to escape summer heat, the summer retreat season is recommended. The shade is cool and allows one to forget urban summer heat. However, the summer vacation period brings increased tourists, so choosing weekdays helps avoid crowds.
How Local People Enjoy Mikasa Street
Early Morning Walk Recommendations
Local villa owners and residents prefer walking Mikasa Street in the early morning. Around 6-7 AM, there are few tourists, allowing you to enjoy birdsong and fresh air exclusively. Particularly in summer, the cool morning hours are most comfortable.
Enjoying by Bicycle
Cycling along Mikasa Street is possible. Renting a bicycle near Karuizawa Station and incorporating Mikasa Street into a course covering the entire Old Karuizawa area is also recommended. It allows round-trip travel in less time than walking and covers a wider tourism range.
Visit Throughout the Seasons
The true charm of Mikasa Street is fully realized by visiting throughout the four seasons. The same location displays a completely different appearance depending on the season, which is why it attracts many repeat visitors. Visiting multiple times per year to enjoy seasonal changes is one of the pleasures of Karuizawa.
Dining Information Around Mikasa Street
Before and after sightseeing, enjoying Karuizawa cuisine at nearby cafes and restaurants is also recommended.
Cafes in the Old Karuizawa Area
Around Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, there are historic cafes and popular bakeries. Taking a break after sightseeing at a cafe with an atmosphere characteristic of Karuizawa to enjoy coffee and sweets is enjoyable.
Lunch Spots
Around Mikasa Street, there are restaurants using Karuizawa vegetables and classic Western restaurants. After walking and sightseeing, replenishing your body with dishes made from local ingredients is recommended.
Recommended Articles
For those visiting Mikasa Street, the following related spots are also recommended.
Other Walking Paths in Karuizawa
Besides Mikasa Street, Karuizawa has numerous beautiful walking paths, including those around Kumoba Pond and Yagasaki Park. Since each has different charm, visiting multiple paths if time permits is worthwhile.
Historic Structures in Karuizawa
Besides the Old Mikasa Hotel, many historic structures from the Meiji and Taisho periods remain in Karuizawa. Visiting such culturally valuable spots as the Karuizawa Shaw Memorial Chapel, the Shiro Momo Museum, and the Karuizawa Highland Church allows deeper understanding of Karuizawa’s history.
Seasonal Event Information
Throughout the year, various events are held in Karuizawa. Music festivals, art events, markets, and more enhance your trip when you check event information matching your visit dates.
Conclusion
Mikasa Street is loved throughout the four seasons by many as a representative tree-lined avenue of Karuizawa. The beautiful larch trees selected for the New Japan Street Trees Hundred Selections display different charms in each season—spring’s fresh foliage, summer’s coolness, autumn’s foliage, and winter’s silence.
The approximately 2km journey from the Old Karuizawa Rotary to the Old Mikasa Hotel is a special space where visitors can experience Karuizawa’s nature, history, and culture. The historical background retaining traces of former railways is also fascinating, allowing sightseeing where you sense Karuizawa’s origins, not merely walking.
When visiting Karuizawa, be sure to walk slowly along Mikasa Street. An experience unique to Karuizawa awaits where you can refresh both mind and body away from urban hustle and bustle, surrounded by nature.
