Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
Discover diverse wildlife and serene nature at Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary, famous for its ethical squirrel tours and beautiful forest trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spot elusive nocturnal wildlife
Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Spot elusive nocturnal wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife and serene nature at Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary, famous for its ethical squirrel tours and beautiful forest trails.
"One of the highlights of our trip to Japan! Great experience seeing Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels."
🎯 Book Squirrel Tours Early
Night tours for Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels are popular and require advance booking. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to do a lot of walking through forest trails. Comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels
Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary
Witness these nocturnal wonders glide through the forest on a guided night tour. Ethical observation is prioritized.
Shiraito Falls
Near Karuizawa
Experience the serene beauty of these cascading white threads of water, a picturesque natural wonder.
Kera-Ike Skate Rink
Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary Forest
Enjoy a unique outdoor ice-skating experience on a naturally frozen lake during winter months.
Harunire Terrace
Karuizawa
A stylish collection of shops and eateries nestled in a beautiful forest setting, perfect for a stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Sightings
Navigating the Sanctuary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Squirrel Tours Early
Night tours for Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels are popular and require advance booking. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to do a lot of walking through forest trails. Comfortable footwear is essential.
📍 Verify Location Details
Some online maps can be inaccurate; confirm your entry point before departing. :world_map:
☕ Relax at Forest Cafes
Enjoy a coffee break amidst nature at charming cafes like the one near the visitor center.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Squirrel Tours Early
Night tours for Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels are popular and require advance booking. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect to do a lot of walking through forest trails. Comfortable footwear is essential.
📍 Verify Location Details
Some online maps can be inaccurate; confirm your entry point before departing. :world_map:
☕ Relax at Forest Cafes
Enjoy a coffee break amidst nature at charming cafes like the one near the visitor center.
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
Bring your camera to photograph diverse bird species and stunning forest scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary for its beautiful forest walks and the unique opportunity to see Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels on ethical night tours. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty are consistently highlighted as major draws. However, some travelers have experienced confusion with the sanctuary's exact location, suggesting a need for clearer navigation. +1
"Pinned location is in the middle of nowhere!!! Don’t try and go there. Not sure where the real location is."
Jasmine Aizley
"Nice easy walk. Nice cafe beside a small pond."
PW T
"Lovely bird sanctuary. We can experience the Japanese Giant Squirrel in night but prior booking is required"
Kiran Joshi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing the sanctuary can be tricky as some online maps are inaccurate. It's recommended to confirm the exact location of the visitor center or main entrance beforehand. Public transport options might be limited, so consider driving or using local taxis.
While Karuizawa town is accessible by train, reaching the sanctuary itself might require further local transport like buses or taxis, especially if you're not driving. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors find renting a car convenient for exploring Karuizawa and its surrounding attractions, including the sanctuary. Alternatively, local buses and taxis are available. +1
Some visitors have reported issues with pinned locations. It's advisable to look for the official visitor center or main entrance, and perhaps cross-reference with local signage upon arrival.
Yes, Karuizawa is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, accessible by Shinkansen. However, the sanctuary itself might require additional travel time within Karuizawa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general access to the forest trails might be free, specific activities like the guided night tours for Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels require prior booking and may have associated fees.
The sanctuary grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours for walking. However, specific facilities like visitor centers or tour departure times will have their own operating hours. The Kera-Ike Skate Rink operates seasonally from October to March.
Yes, the popular guided night tours to observe the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels require advance booking due to limited group sizes and to ensure ethical wildlife viewing.
Information on specific entrance fees for the general sanctuary grounds is not widely available, suggesting it might be free or minimal. However, specialized tours or activities will likely have separate charges.
For guided tours, it's highly recommended to book in advance online or via phone to secure your spot. On-site availability might be limited or unavailable.
📸 📸 Photography & Wildlife
The sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species. Visitors have spotted Narcissus Flycatchers and other local avian life.
Yes, the sanctuary offers guided night tours specifically to observe the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels in their natural habitat. These tours emphasize ethical viewing.
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for birdwatching, as birds are most active during these periods.
While general photography is usually permitted, it's important to be mindful of wildlife and avoid using flash or making loud noises that could disturb them.
Yes, bringing your own binoculars is highly recommended to enhance your birdwatching and wildlife spotting experience.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes located within or near the sanctuary, such as the one by the small pond or the Picchio Visitor Center cafe, offering a place to relax and enjoy refreshments.
Harunire Terrace offers a selection of stylish dining and shopping options, with various restaurants serving different cuisines.
Karuizawa offers various dining experiences, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Some accommodations also offer excellent dining, including local dishes. +1
While not explicitly detailed, many restaurants in tourist areas like Karuizawa are becoming more accommodating. It's best to check menus or inquire directly with the establishment.
Dining prices in Karuizawa can vary widely, from affordable cafe options to more expensive restaurant meals. Some hotels offer all-inclusive packages. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider visiting the Kera-Ike Skate Rink in winter for a fun family activity, or enjoy a relaxed afternoon at one of the cafes with scenic views. +1 Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as facilities might be spread out. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
+1 The guided night tours to observe the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrels are a highlight, offering a rare and ethical encounter with these fascinating creatures. Don't forget to bring your binoculars and camera to capture the beauty you encounter. 📸 Photographers
The forest itself, with its lush greenery and dappled sunlight, provides a stunning backdrop for nature photography. For wildlife photographers, the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel tours offer a chance to capture unique shots, provided you maintain ethical practices and avoid disturbing the animals. The Harunire Terrace also presents charming scenes with its blend of nature and stylish architecture. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Ethical Observation
Beyond the flying squirrels, the sanctuary is a haven for various bird species. Visitors can spot birds like the Narcissus Flycatcher, especially during the spring and summer months.
+1 The forest trails are designed to offer excellent vantage points for birdwatching, and bringing binoculars is highly recommended to enhance the experience. +1 The sanctuary's dedication to preserving its natural environment ensures that these wildlife encounters are both enriching and responsible. Karuizawa's Natural Beauty and Activities
The Harunire Terrace provides a charming contrast with its collection of stylish shops and eateries set amidst a beautiful forest.
It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying a meal, or finding unique souvenirs. Many visitors also appreciate the opportunity to stay in resorts that offer a blend of comfort and nature, with some featuring private hot springs and excellent dining options. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit