A Private Rental Retreat at 1,100 Meters in Kita-KaruizawaNoël Kitakaruizawa Notch
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About us
A Luxury Where the Forest Becomes Your Home, and the Fire Becomes Your Light
Built by hand from Canadian red cedar logs measuring over 50 cm in diameter, Noël Kitakaruizawa Notch is an authentic handcrafted log cabin where the forest itself feels transformed into a place to stay.
Nestled at the foot of Mt. Asama and surrounded by the abundant nature of Kita-Karuizawa, all you'll hear is birdsong, and all you'll see are magnificent mountain views.
Step inside, and you'll be welcomed by the graceful curves of massive handcrafted logs and the rich, calming aroma of natural wood.
Extending from the living room is a spacious wooden deck featuring an authentic barrel sauna and a wood-fired jacuzzi-style bath, where the gentle glow of the flames completes the experience. As night falls, watch the flames of the wood-burning stove dance gently before you, and surrender yourself to the quiet stillness of the mountains.
Even in the height of summer, cool breezes flow through the forest, and at night, a sky filled with countless stars stretches overhead.
Leave the noise of everyday life behind and enjoy moments that belong to no one but you, here in the heart of the forest.
Experience
Fireplace
A Warmth That Awakens Something Deeply Familiar
As the sun sets and the forest settles into silence, light the wood-burning stove and listen to the gentle crackle of burning logs as comforting warmth slowly fills the room.
As you gaze into the dancing flames, long-forgotten memories begin to surface—campfires shared in childhood, the old stove at your grandparents' home, or perhaps the cozy fireplace from the pages of a storybook. There is something about fire that quietly reconnects us with the warmth we carry deep within.
Surrounded by the strength and beauty of massive handcrafted logs, spend an unhurried evening with the people who matter most.
You may not do anything extraordinary, yet somehow, it becomes a moment you'll remember for years to come.
Sauna
Warm Yourself in the Sauna, Then Let the Mountain Breeze Cool You
Unwind in an authentic Harvia barrel sauna, where gentle heat eases your body into relaxation. Open the door, and a peaceful view of lush forest greenery stretches out before you.
Cool down in the wood-fired water bath crafted from a reclaimed wine barrel, where the subtle scent of wood and wine lingers in the water. Sink into the infinity chair, and at an elevation of 1,100 meters, the crisp mountain breeze softly brushes your warmed skin.
All you'll notice is the rustling of the trees and the wind passing through the leaves. Before you know it, your breathing slows, and both body and mind gently melt into a state of complete relaxation.
BBQ
Gather Around the Fire Beneath a Sky Full of Stars
On the spacious wooden deck overlooking the forest, the gentle aroma of wood smoke drifts through the air. With a Coleman gas grill, there's no need to spend time lighting charcoal. Whenever the mood strikes, you can start grilling right away.
The sizzle of meat on the grill, the rich aroma rising into the evening air, and the laughter shared over a glass in hand. As the sun sets, the forest gradually fades into twilight, until a sky filled with countless stars appears overhead. With the whisper of the trees as your background music, enjoy an evening of conversation where time simply slips away.
Pet
Bring Your Beloved Pet Along, Too
Surrounded by nature and towering trees, this is a place where your pet can feel just as relaxed as you do.
Spend a sunny afternoon together on the wooden deck or unwind side by side in the living room. Moments that often have to be left behind on ordinary trips can be shared here, with every member of the family.
Create lasting memories with the family member who's always closest to you, and enjoy a warm, peaceful getaway together.
Pet Fee: ¥3,300 per night (up to 2 pets; first floor only).
Rooms
Living
Wrapped in layers of massive handcrafted logs, the living room showcases the timeless beauty of authentic hand-cut craftsmanship. Part of the space features a soaring open ceiling, where enormous timber beams stretch overhead in graceful curves, creating an extraordinary sense of openness accompanied by the calming scent of natural wood.
At the heart of the room stands a wood-burning stove. Once lit, the gentle crackle of burning logs is joined by soft, radiant warmth that rises through the open space above. As you watch the flames flicker and share conversations with those closest to you, time begins to slow. Surrounded by the warmth of wood and fire, both body and mind gradually begin to unwind.
Kitchen & Dining
A bright, well-appointed kitchen equipped with everything you need to prepare just about any meal. From cooking appliances to pots, pans, and kitchen knives, every essential is thoughtfully provided, allowing you to cook as comfortably as you would at home.
Above the dining area, a soaring open ceiling welcomes soft natural light that gently fills the timber interior. Beyond the spacious dining table for six, large windows open toward the balcony, where meals enjoyed against a backdrop of lush greenery transform even the simplest gathering into something truly memorable.
Bedroom
The bedrooms are located on the second floor, reached by a staircase. Looking up, you'll find the pitched roof forming the ceiling itself, creating the cozy feeling of a loft while surrounding you with the quiet comfort that only a wooden home can offer.
Lie back on the bed, and sink into thick, cloud-soft bedding that gently embraces your body like freshly fallen snow.
Warm lighting complements the natural beauty of the timber, softly illuminating the room and helping you unwind at the end of the day. Surrounded by the peaceful silence of the forest, you'll drift into a deep and restful sleep.
Bathroom
A spacious bathroom with both a shower and a bathtub invites you to slow down and relax. Soft natural light filters through two small windows, creating a bright and refreshing atmosphere throughout the day.
After a day spent exploring the forest or unwinding in the sauna, soak in the warm bath and let the heat gently ease away your fatigue. Surrounded by the peaceful stillness that only a wooden retreat can offer, it's the perfect place to restore both body and mind.
Balcony
Step outside from the living room, and you'll find yourself on a spacious wooden deck. Before you stretches a forest of vibrant greenery, while the crisp mountain breeze gently brushes against your skin. This is where time seems to slow down the most.
Work up a satisfying sweat in the authentic barrel sauna, then sink into the wood-fired jacuzzi bath, heated slowly by the gentle flames of burning logs. As you soak in the softly warmed water, look up to see shimmering green leaves during the day and a sky overflowing with stars after nightfall.
Theater Room
After a full day of adventure, settle into the theater room and unwind. The 75-inch screen brings movies and music to life with stunning scale and immersive sound.
Sink into the sofa, dim the lights, and the room transforms into your own private cinema. Place your favorite drink on the side table, sit shoulder to shoulder with someone special, and lose yourselves in your favorite films late into the night.
Wrapped in the quiet of the forest, it's a truly luxurious way to end the day.
Exterior
Floating Among the Trees, Where the Sky and Deck Become One
Beyond a quiet forest path, the lodge reveals itself in peaceful harmony with its surroundings.
Built by hand from Canadian red cedar logs measuring over 50 cm in diameter, this is an authentic handcrafted log house.
The massive round logs, layered one upon another, create a striking architectural presence while blending gently into the natural beauty of the forest.
The moment you step out of your car, you'll be greeted by the scent of cedar and the crisp mountain air. We invite you to experience the unique stay that awaits at Noël Kitakaruizawa Notch.
Access
Facility Name
Noël Kitakaruizawa Notch
Address
2032-4053 Kitakaruizawa, Naganohara-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma 377-1412, Japan
Public Transportation
The nearest bus stop (Kitakaruizawa Station) is connected to the property by a steep mountain road. As walking to the property is difficult, we recommend taking a taxi from the bus stop.
Parking
Complimentary on-site parking is available.
Important Notes
For Guests Arriving by Public Transportation
The nearest bus stop (Kitakaruizawa Station) is connected to the property by a steep mountain road. As walking to the property is difficult, please take a taxi from the bus stop.
What to Tell Your Taxi Driver
Please show the location on Google Maps using your smartphone and tell the driver, "Noël Kitakaruizawa Notch." Please note that some taxi navigation systems may not pinpoint the property accurately. Showing the driver the Google Maps route on your phone is the most reliable way to reach the property.
For Guests Visiting During Winter
During the winter months, snowfall can accumulate to around 50 cm. If you are traveling by car, winter tires are essential, and we strongly recommend carrying tire chains as well. Should your vehicle become stuck in the snow, please be aware that it may take a considerable amount of time for roadside assistance or a tow truck to arrive.
Overview
Capacity
Up to 7 guests
Check-in
From 4:00 PM
Check-out
By 10:00 AM
Accommodation Fee
Varies depending on the season. Please check the reservation site for details.
Total Area
Approx. 170m² (Indoor: 120m² + Wood deck: 50m²)
Floor Plan
2 Bedrooms, Living & Dining Area, Separate Bathroom and Toilet, Theater Room
As the entire facility is rented exclusively, guests are free to use all rooms within the property.
Other Notes
We maintain the landscaping and cleanliness of the property with the help of our local neighbors. We value harmony with the local community and strive to operate in a way that respects the surrounding residential environment. For this reason, loud parties or any noisy behavior is strictly prohibited. Please note that in the event of any trouble with neighbors, we may be forced to cancel the rental. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Requests During Your Stay
This is a private vacation home, not a hotel. Please treat the property with the same care you would your own home.
Before check-out, we kindly ask for your cooperation with simple tidying, such as washing dishes and sorting your trash.
An additional cleaning fee may be charged for excessive dirt, damage, or odors.
As the property is unmanned, self check-in is required.
Refunds cannot be provided for reasons related to natural conditions, including odors, insects, or weather.
During winter, low outdoor temperatures may prevent the sauna from reaching its usual operating temperature. Thank you for your understanding.
About the Natural Environment
Located at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters, temperatures are around 10°C cooler than in the surrounding lowlands, especially during the early morning and evening. Please bring appropriate clothing.
The surrounding area is home to wildlife and insects, including ants, centipedes, spiders, mantises, geckos, wild boars, monkeys, Asian black bears, and snakes. If you encounter wildlife, please do not approach it and remain calm.
Although we carry out regular cleaning and pest control, complete prevention of insects is not possible due to the natural environment. Guests who are particularly sensitive to insects are encouraged to consider this before making a reservation.
Access & Facilities
On-site parking is available for up to two vehicles.
During winter, roads may freeze. We strongly recommend using winter tires.
If you plan to take a taxi, we recommend making a reservation in advance.
Refund Policy
Refunds will not be provided for issues related to the natural environment or subjective impressions, including odors, insects, weather, cleanliness, or allergic reactions. Please review and understand these conditions before making your reservation.
Option
Sauna Poncho & Hat Set: ¥1,000 per set
Pets (up to 2): ¥3,300 per night (first floor only)
Reserve
For reservations, availability, and detailed information about rates for Noël Kitakaruizawa Notch, please click here.
