and colourful leaves in autumn; and the open-air hot springs at Sengataki-onsen and Hoshino-onsen. Besides Karuizawa Ice Park where sports enthusiasts can find an activity for every season ...

One of these is the picturesque town of Karuizawa. Just 70 minutes from Tokyo by bullet train, the upscale mountain resort town serves as a peaceful counterpoint to the capital's energy.