Extending from the south exit of Karuizawa Station is one of Japan’s most impressive highland resort areas. With 95 times the area of the Tokyo Dome, it boasts a shopping plaza, golf course, ski resort, and other amenities. Set within it is the Prince Karuizawa, a classically styled resort hotel established in 1982. Conceived by the architect Kiyoshi Seike, the overall structure follows a curved outline. From the ship-inspired design features to the fireplaces with the solidity of Asama stone, meticulous attention is apparent in every detail. The guestroom windows, given a generous width by maximum spacing of the pillars, offer splendid views across the pond to pine forests with Mt. Asama in the distance. The French restaurant Dining Room Beaux Sejours has a piano gracing its center and a panorama window that looks across the pond to frame views of Karuizawa’s natural beauty through the changing seasons, creating an elegant setting for culinary enjoyment. The Library Cafe Rindo, with its rich collection of books on Karuizawa and architecture, provides a space in harmony with Karuizawa’s natural environment to enjoy reading over afternoon coffee.