Discover the Majestic Stone Church in Karuizawa
Experience the stunning beauty of the Stone Church in Karuizawa - a perfect blend of nature, tranquility, and architectural wonder.
A brief summary to Stone Church
- Hoshino, Karuizawa, Hoshino Nagakura, Kitasaku District, Nagano, 389-0111, JP
- +81267-45-2288
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
The Stone Church, located in the picturesque town of Karuizawa, Japan, is a remarkable architectural gem that stands out in the lush surroundings of Nagano Prefecture. This stunning church, often referred to as the 'Church of the Light', is characterized by its striking stone facade and modern design, seamlessly integrated with nature. Visitors are captivated by the tranquil ambiance that the church exudes, making it an ideal spot for reflection and peace. The interiors are equally impressive, featuring beautiful stained glass windows that cast colorful patterns on the stone walls, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Stone Church is also a popular wedding venue, attracting couples who wish to exchange vows in a breathtaking setting. The serene gardens surrounding the church are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing visitors to enjoy the splendor of the natural world that envelops this sacred space. Additionally, the church is open to the public, providing ample opportunity for tourists to explore its beauty and learn about its history. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Stone Church in Karuizawa promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of its beauty and serenity. Plan your visit accordingly as the church operates from 10 AM to 5 PM daily, ensuring you have enough time to soak in its tranquility and take stunning photographs. This enchanting location is not just a place of worship, but a testament to the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Take a leisurely walk in the gardens to fully appreciate the church's natural surroundings.
- Check for any special events or services that might be occurring during your visit.
- Respect the serene environment; keep noise to a minimum while visiting.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Getting There
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Car
From Omi, head northwest on Route 19 towards Nagano. Continue on Route 19 for approximately 25 kilometers until you reach the exit for Karuizawa. Merge onto E18 (Joshinetsu Expressway) and pay the toll (approximately 700 yen). Take the Karuizawa exit and follow the signs to Hoshino. The Stone Church is located at Hoshino, Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0111. The journey will take around 40 minutes depending on traffic.
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Public Transportation
Start at Omi Station and take the train to Karuizawa Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately 1,500 yen. Once you arrive at Karuizawa Station, take a taxi to the Stone Church, which is about 6 kilometers away and will cost around 1,500 to 2,000 yen. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Karuizawa Station to Hoshino, which may take a bit longer but is a more economical option (bus fare is around 500 yen).
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, consider renting a bicycle in Omi. Head northwest on Route 19 towards Nagano, then take Route 18 towards Karuizawa. The distance is about 25 kilometers and will take approximately 2-3 hours depending on your cycling speed and fitness level. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws.
Attractions Nearby to Stone Church
- Karuizawa Kogen Church
- Harunire Terrace
- Tonbo-no-yu
- Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
- Karuizawa Sengataki Hot Spring
- Sezon Museum of Modern Art
- Yukawa Furusato Park
- The Museum of Contemporary Art, Karuizawa
- Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa
- Karuizawa Taliesin
- Kumoba Pond
- Karuizawa Kazakoshi Park
- Senga Falls
- Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
- Murō Saisei Commemorative House
Landmarks nearby to Stone Church
- The Prince Karuizawa
- Megane Bridge (Usui No. 3 Bridge)
- Yokokawa Station
- Myogi Shrine
- Kusatsu Hot spring Tourist Association.
- Yugama
- Highest Point of Japan’s National Routes
- 日本最高所 水準点標石 (No.10809)
- Nakanojomachi Sight Seeing Information Center
- Shibukawa Skyland Park
- Kashiwaya Ryokan
- Shima Yamaguchikan
- Toshimaya
- Kashiwaya Café
- Shima Onsen