A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, communal or private baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Guests typically wear yukata (cotton robes) provided by the inn. A ryokan stay is one of the most authentic cultural experiences Japan has to offer.

What should I wear at the ryokan?

Upon arrival, you'll be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) and a pair of slippers. You can wear the yukata throughout the ryokan — to dinner, to the onsen, and even for a stroll in the neighborhood. Indoor slippers should be removed before stepping on tatami mats.

Is English spoken at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa?

Yes, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa has English-speaking staff who can assist with check-in, dining reservations, and local recommendations. Communication should not be an issue for international guests.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 12:00. If you arrive early, most ryokans can store your luggage while you explore the area. Late check-in may be possible — contact the ryokan in advance to arrange.

Is there an onsen (hot spring bath)?

Yes, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa features an onsen for guests. Japanese bathing etiquette requires washing thoroughly before entering the bath. Most onsen have separate bathing times or areas for men and women. Bring a small towel but leave large towels outside the bath area.

Is the onsen tattoo-friendly?

HOSHINOYA Karuizawa offers private onsen baths, which are ideal for guests with tattoos. Private baths can be reserved for personal use, so tattoo restrictions typically don't apply.

Can I book a private onsen?

Yes, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa offers private onsen (kashikiri-buro) that can be reserved for personal or family use. This is perfect for couples, families, or guests who prefer privacy. Ask at the front desk upon arrival to reserve a time slot.

Can I store luggage before check-in?

Yes, most ryokans including HOSHINOYA Karuizawa offer luggage storage for guests arriving before check-in time. You can also use coin lockers at the nearest station or luggage delivery services (takkyubin) to send bags directly from the airport or previous hotel.

Yes, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa provides complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Connection is available in guest rooms and common areas.

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and JCB. Some ryokans may also accept American Express. It's always good to have some cash as a backup for small purchases.

How do I get to HOSHINOYA Karuizawa from the nearest station?

The nearest station is Karuizawa Station, approximately 15 minutes on foot. You can reach it by local train, subway, or taxi. The ryokan can provide detailed walking directions upon request.

How do I book HOSHINOYA Karuizawa?

You can book HOSHINOYA Karuizawa through trusted platforms like Booking.com or Expedia. Click the "Check Prices" button on this page to check availability and rates. We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom in March-April and autumn leaves in November).

The Hoshino Onsen grounds in Karuizawa, where HOSHINOYA stands

Waterways through the Hoshino Onsen estate

Woodland on the Hoshino estate, Karuizawa

663highland / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)

Luxury| Karuizawa

HOSHINOYA Karuizawa

Rating: 8.8
Author: Sora Matsuda

星のや軽井沢

Policy unknown — confirm at booking

Reviewed by Sora Matsuda·Founding Editor & Ryokan Correspondent·How we verify

Sora's verified pick

8.8(63 reviews)

Policy unknown — confirm at booking

from$830 / per night · per person

The Hoshino estate flagship — 77 rooms along man-made waterways, two onsen, and a valley that the resort has owned for a century.

Staff speaksEnglish · 日本語

Features

English FriendlyOnsen IncludedPrivate OnsenFree WiFiCredit Cards

About

HOSHINOYA Karuizawa occupies the floor of the Yukawa valley on land the Hoshino family has held since 1904, and the layout is the point: 77 rooms sit along water, terraced into the slope so that almost none of them look at each other. There are two bathing facilities — the Meditation Bath, which is indoors and deliberately dark, and Tombo-no-Yu, the public bathhouse on the same estate that has been running since the Taisho era. Rooms have their own baths as well. The estate carries the Harunire Terrace shops and restaurants, so a stay here does not require leaving. It is the most expensive address in Karuizawa by a wide margin and books out months ahead for autumn foliage.

Cuisine

Multi-course kaiseki dinner and traditional Japanese breakfast are typically included in the nightly rate at this luxury ryokan. Premium kaiseki tiers, in-room dining (heya-shoku), and private dining rooms (koshitsu) may be available — request these preferences when booking through Trip.com or Booking.com.

Dietary requests (vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, allergies) should be communicated at booking, not on arrival — the kitchen pre-orders ingredients several days ahead.