Harunire Terrace

Karuizawa is a highland town known for its cool climate, forests and relaxed pace. Long popular as a summer escape, it blends nature, thoughtful design and everyday local life in a compact, walkable setting. Within this landscape, several small areas offer different ways to experience the town.

Harunire Terrace

Photo by: iStock/ colinhui

Harunire Terrace is an open-air shopping and dining complex located in the Hoshino Area of Karuizawa. It was designed to blend into the surrounding woodland, with wooden decks winding between buildings and Japanese elm trees left intact. Rather than a traditional mall, the area feels like a small village, encouraging visitors to move slowly between cafes, restaurants and shops.

The compact design keeps walking distances short, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace. Many seats and open terraces overlook the nearby river, creating a calm setting throughout the day and into the evening.

Restaurants and Stores

Photo by: PIXTA/ HHImages

As you browse through the shopping complex, several restaurants and small cafes come into view. While Karuizawa is known for soba (buckwheat noodles), the area also offers Western and Chinese cuisine options.

• Izumi-ya Dembei specializes in modern Shinshu-style confectionery made with local fruit and nuts. The shop is a great place to stop for souvenirs or light snacks.
• Trattoria il Sogno serves Italian dishes that focus on seasonal vegetables and regional ingredients. Terrace seating overlooks the river, making it a popular spot for lunch and early dinner.
• Sekireibashi Kawakami-an offers freshly milled nihachi soba in a quiet forest setting. Its simple menu highlights the quality of the noodles and pairs well with small seasonal dishes.
• Kisurin presents home-style Chinese cooking with light seasoning and an emphasis on vegetables. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for casual meals.
• Sajiro Café Linden features Nepali curries and a small spice selection. It’s an easy stop for warming dishes and tea.
• Sawamura combines a bakery with a full-service restaurant. Visitors can stop by for bread in the morning or enjoy Western-style meals later in the day.
• Cercle Wine & Deli specializes in natural wines and deli plates curated by a sommelier. It works well for light meals or early evening dining.
• Harvest Nagai Farm serves small-batch gelato made with locally sourced milk, featuring seasonal flavors that change regularly.
• Hygge by ØC offers Danish-style crepes and coffee, making it an ideal spot for a short break between shops.
• Maruyama Coffee pairs specialty coffee with books and sweets, creating a serene space to relax.