Stay at Koya Backpackers


2017.11.17

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

Stay at Koya Backpackers

Nestled in the forest of Naka-Karuizawa, Koya Backpackers is an excellent alternative to the resort-style accommodation that abounds in Japan’s “cottage country”. A hundred-year-old wooden home moved to Karuizawa from its original location provides the perfect setting for guests to connect with nature and with other adventuring travelers passing through town.

  • Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Koya’s owner, Yusuke-san, took over an old family home and not only tastefully renovated, but also preserved the traditional character of the two-story building which include tatami rooms, and two long corridors that connect the inside space with the soothing greenery of the home’s surroundings. Although it is located in a forest, Koya is only a short drive from Naka-karuizawa JR Station and a comfortable stroll will take you Harunire Terrace and Hoshinoya Resort’s facilities.

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    The experience at Koya Backpackers is about slowing down and taking pleasure in the environment. Yusuke-san, who speaks English, enjoys sharing a drink and a chat in the lounge. Although lights are out at 11:00 pm on the dot, there’s a chance to mingle with other guests too and exchange travel tips. Don’t be shy to ask the owner for recommendations, he’s very knowledgable of the area and will be sure to recommend the best local izakaya or hiking trails located close by.

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Accommodation here is simple, comfortable and affordable. On the first floor the mixed dormitory is equipped with spacious bunk beds, and each bed is isolated by a curtain to provide a bit of privacy. On the second floor, the dormitory room is a group exclusive for women can accommodate up to four people. For a mixed group, up to 6 people can be accommodated. Next to the mixed dormitory, a third japanese-style room accommodates a family or a group of three, and has the added bonus of having its own mini lounge perfect for catching up on your reading. Whatever your choice, you can count on having a cozy stay while at Koya.

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    A couple of things we particularly love about Koya Backpackers are the corridors and the backyard. During the chilly mornings or when the sun is at its peak, the corridor is a perfect place for taking in the nature, or for enjoying a bite to eat as you wait for one of Karuizawa’s rare birds or a deer to drop by. We recommend you pick up a delicious treat at Sawamura Bakery in the Harunire Terrace nearby, pair it with Koya’s complimentary hot drinks and take in the beauty of your temporary home.

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    Stay at Koya Backpackers

    With favourable weather, skip the corridor and step out into the backyard. You can choose from the wood log furniture or the hammock and do pretty much nothing but relax. If you like a bit more action, you can take advantage of Koya’s bbq grill rental service, and do as the locals do, by rounding out your stay with some charcoal-grilled food. If bbq is not your thing, at Koya you can also order Indian curry, halal food, and fresh veggies for a small extra fee.

    Koya Backpackers(コウヤ バックパッカーズ)
    place
    長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町長倉2147-500
    phone
    070-2654-6868
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    no image
    Nakakaruizawa
    place
    Nagano Pref
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    Harunire Terrace
    place
    Nagano Pref. Kitasakugunkaruizawamachi Nagakura 2148
    phone
    05035373553
    opening-hour
    Depending on the store
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    星のや軽井沢
    place
    長野県北佐久郡軽井沢町星野
    phone
    05031348091
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    no image
  • Bakery and Restaurant Sawamura (Karuizawa Harunire Terrace)
    place
    Nagano Kitasaku-gun Karuizawamachi Nagakura 2145-5
    phone
    0267310144
    opening-hour
    [Bakery]7:00-21:00[Restauran…
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