By Driving Japan

This video takes us on a scenic drive from Tokyo to some of Japan’s most famous summer resorts, including Karuizawa (軽井沢), Shiga Plateau (志賀高原), and Nozawa Onsen (野沢温泉). The journey begins at THE CAPITOL HOTEL TOKYU in Tokyo at 4:12 AM, traveling through several major road junctions en route to Karuizawa, a luxurious summer retreat known for its cool climate and accessibility via Shinkansen.

Karuizawa Station is reached at around 2 hours and 42 minutes into the drive. The trip continues past volcanic Mount Asama (浅間山), which is a major landmark in the region. The Onioshidashi Park (鬼押出し園) at the foot of Mount Asama is visited, with striking rock formations as a highlight.

Further along, the journey enters the Shiga Kogen (志賀高原) area, a well-known ski destination. The deep Shiga Plateau (Oku-Shiga Kogen, 奥志賀高原) is also featured. The drive passes through Nozawa Onsen, which is famous for its traditional inns and 13 public hot spring baths. A stop is made at the base station for the Nozawa Onsen gondola ropeway, which provides access to the ski slopes.

Continuing, the video takes us to Yudanaka Station (湯田中駅), a gateway to Yudanaka Onsen. It also reaches the highest point of a national highway in Japan. The drive then progresses to Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉), one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns known for its strong sulfuric water.

The return journey heads back towards Tokyo, making stops at Shibukawa-Ikaho Entrance before concluding back at THE CAPITOL HOTEL TOKYU. This long drive showcases a beautiful and diverse landscape, from lush forests and mountains to volcanic sites and hot spring resorts, making it a perfect introduction to summer travel options outside Tokyo.