Wanda H.United States
This was truly an amazing tour with a wonderful guide. If you are in Tokyo it is easy to take the train out and have a lovely day in the country.
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Private tour in Karuizawa Setsuko M
A Day in the Country
5.0
(7) reviews
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6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
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6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Setsuko M.
5.0
Guide rating
135
Reviews
Tours delivered
5 hrs
Avg. response time
Hello. Setsuko here. I specialize in tours of Nagano and Tokyo, but I can actually take you anywhere in Japan, like Kyoto, Nikko, or Hakone. I choose these days to live in the country. Why? Because I'm an animal lover - particularly dogs, cats, and horses. Also my home town - Karuizawa - is only an hour from Tokyo by the shinkansen. Karuizawa is a wonderful blend of nature and culture. I can't imagine living anywhere else in Japan now. I do love Tokyo though. I know both places very well. I've lived and traveled in many other countries. In New Zealand and Australia, for example, I worked for twelve years as an interpreter and guide. I often found myself far off the beaten path. Indeed, my most memorable experiences came from what local people showed me there. That's just the sort of experience I'd like to give you. When I returned to Japan I developed a keen interest in its history, its way of life, and its cuisine. I made the decision to get a national guide's qualification. And here I am. I must say, too, how much I enjoy meeting new people. I'd really like to share with you my knowledge of my society's many nooks and crannies. Japan is an intriguing blend of the traditional and the modern and exploring this blend is the very best reason for coming to visit us. I hope to see you soon. National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate No. EN00124 Certificate of Authorized Tour Conductor Registration No. 02-18-056835 No restrictions
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Setsuko M.
With a private car and a picnic basket, explore a lovely mountain village
Overview of your Karuizawa tour
Karuizawa is an hour northwest of Tokyo by bullet train. Set in forests and farmland at the foot of beautiful Mt. Asama, it's a special mixture of nature and culture. In the Edo period, it was a post-town. In the 19th century, Westerners came and Japanese artists and writers followed. John Lennon was a regular visitor because he found every time of the year so special there. The altitude (1000 meters) means there are four distinct seasons. In the spring, there are cherry and plum blossoms and many flowers. The summer is green and cool and the autumn leaves are spectacular. In winter there's often snow. I've lived here for more than 10 years. It's an opportunity to see the real life of local Japanese people. It's not a tourist trap in any way.
Recent Reviews
Cynquetta D.United States
Everything was well organized and we learned a lot
Kiki C.United States
Karuizawa is a lovely resort town north of Tokyo. When we visited the cherry blossoms were not yet in bloom, but it's easy to see how beautiful the countryside is - especially in fall with the autumn colors. It was cold enough in mid April that we saw snow on the ski slopes near town. There are lovely places to hike and shrines tucked in places you'd never think to look. Setsuko showed us the farmer's market, the fields where rice and other produce is grown, a mountain lookout, and a truly lovely museum. If you are looking to escape the high intensity of Tokyo, Karuizawa is a delight. There is a lovely main street with shops and Setsuko will treat you to an authentic and delicious lunch.
Anna Lissa C.Philippines
We are totally satisfied with how Setsuko delivered her tour... I highly recommend Setsuko to travellers.
Debra S.United States
Shhhh...best kept secret. A beautiful place. Setsuko knows everything to see in karuizawa. You must take this tour and get a peek outside the big city. Highly recommend.
Grace Enriqueta V.Philippines
Setsuko is a warm friendly person who you will enjoy having conversations with. She knows all about the Information of the place and she gives you lots of additional tips that are very helpful. I enjoyed our time together and she was conscious of my health since sometimes I have difficulty going up a slope and she matched her pace with mine. She is also fun and accommodating, when I mentioned I like Japanese cuisine and shopping we ate delicious Japanese food and went to an outlet, will recommend her!
Your Karuizawa tour itinerary
For example: 10:30 Meet at the station. By private car tour the village and take in a special view spot 12:00 Proceed to Lake Gardens for delightful stroll in the rose gardens and a picnic lunch. 14:00 Visit the Hiroshi Senju Museum for a unique celebration of nature, art, and architecture 15:00 Afternoon tea at a local, very authentic, Japanese cafe 16:30 Farewell at the station
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv
Travelers take the bullet train from Tokyo station for a shinkansen experience. It takes an hour or so to Karuizawa. I can give instructions on how to go from your hotel to Tokyo station and how to buy a ticket there. In Karuizawa transportation will be by private car. I'll drive the car myself.
What's included
Other: My service and expenses
Private Guide
Private Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Depends on the activities. I can quote in advance once I know what you want to do.
Tickets
Meeting location
Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan
Exit gate of Karuizawa station
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Day Trip
City Highlights
Shopping
Tour reference number
614011
Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
Light
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Karuizawa best suited for?
This private tour is perfect for travellers interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural history of Karuizawa. It's ideal for those who enjoy scenic views, art, and authentic local experiences. With Setsuko M. as your guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the area's unique charm.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Karuizawa be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
What happens if a site is closed, crowded, or the weather changes?
What languages is this tour offered in?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
More tours in Karuizawa by Setsuko M.
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.