Apa Hotel Karuizawa Ekimae Karuizawaso

“Clean, Compact, and Steps from the Station — Great Budget Stay in Karuizawa”

We stayed at APA Hotel Karuizawa for 2 nights in January 2025, and it was exactly what we needed: a clean, budget-friendly, and well-located hotel for a short winter stay. I was traveling with my sister, and we booked the Twin Room (18 sqm). While compact, the layout was smart and functional — ther… more

We stayed at APA Hotel Karuizawa for 2 nights in January 2025, and it was exactly what we needed: a clean, budget-friendly, and well-located hotel for a short winter stay. I was traveling with my sister, and we booked the Twin Room (18 sqm). While compact, the layout was smart and functional — there was enough room for two adults and luggage, and it didn't feel cramped. The beds were comfortable, and although small (around 90–100 cm width), co-sleeping would be doable for families with kids under 6, which the hotel allows (up to 2 kids sharing existing beds). The room came with everything you'd expect from a typical APA stay — fridge, electric kettle, slippers, pajamas, hairdryer, and a full private bathroom with a tub and bidet. Heating worked well (essential in Karuizawa's winter), and the air purifier was a nice touch. While there are no child-specific amenities like cribs or kids’ pajamas, the space is perfectly adequate for short stays, especially for adults traveling with young children who don’t need extra equipment. What really sets this hotel apart is the location. It’s just steps from Karuizawa Station, making it a great choice whether you’re arriving with luggage or planning to explore the area. The Prince Shopping Plaza and various restaurants are all within a 5–10 minute walk, even in snowy conditions. The hotel is fully accessible with elevators, and we found it easy to move around despite winter weather — even for seniors or guests using strollers. Check-in was smooth and straightforward, with polite staff and the option to store luggage before the room was ready. There are vending machines and a shared microwave on-site, which made snacking easy after a long day out. Wi-Fi and heating worked reliably, and the room looked just like the official photos — no frills, but clean and well-maintained. The decor is slightly dated, but it didn’t bother us at all. We paid around JPY 38,000 for 2 nights (room only), which felt like excellent value for the comfort and location, especially during ski season. The breakfast is cheap but very basic, so we’d recommend skipping it in favor of nearby cafés or bakeries. Overall, this is a great option for adults or families with young kids who just need a good night’s rest in a central location. For a practical stay in Karuizawa, APA delivered exactly what we needed.

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“Okeeee”

Well there arent many affordable Hotels in Karuizawa^^, and this one is just next to the station. So there is not much of a choice. The shopping area with all the restaurant are just a 5 min. walk across the station, so everything is within walking distance except the sightseeing spots maybe, The H… more

Well there arent many affordable Hotels in Karuizawa^^, and this one is just next to the station. So there is not much of a choice. The shopping area with all the restaurant are just a 5 min. walk across the station, so everything is within walking distance except the sightseeing spots maybe, The Hotel room is ok, everything was working, except...well the Phone. Well actually, ALL phones lol !? I tried to do a phone call, and after the staff checked he told me that. I was offered the front desk phone, but there is no way to have a private conversation there. So i had to go to the station, which again, was not the most private space really. The breakfast was good. English in general was difficult for 90% of the staff. I recommend this hotel, but only for short visits and not for couples.

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“Decent stay...”

Got twin beds. APA is relatively clean, but i spotted a strand of hair stuck on the walls in the bathroom. The beds are not supportive, overly soft. Mineral water provided in the room. Location is good, 3 mins walk from Karuizawa station, and 2.5 mins walk to the bus station where the key buse… more

Got twin beds. APA is relatively clean, but i spotted a strand of hair stuck on the walls in the bathroom. The beds are not supportive, overly soft. Mineral water provided in the room. Location is good, 3 mins walk from Karuizawa station, and 2.5 mins walk to the bus station where the key buses depart. Buses will take you direct to Karuizawa Ginza in 5 mins, or you can walk for 25 mins. (we actually tried both!). You can use coins or Suica cards (from Tokyo) The other bus (bus stop labelled 2) takes you to the Higashi falls, but it isn't cheap as it goes up to the mountains. Bike rental for 700 yen per day available outside of the hotel just across the road. Overall, i like the location, but the decor is aged, and compared to other hotels in Tokyo and Kanazawa for my trip, this is just a decent stay.

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