鹿島ノ森でイメージ通りの軽井沢に出会う : Hotel Kajima no Mori

For our wedding anniversary trip, we decided to splurge and stay at "Hotel Kajima no Mori."

Let me give you a brief introduction to this hotel.
The story goes back to the Meiji era when Mr. Kajima of Kajima Corporation (now Kajima Construction) established his headquarters in Karuizawa after being contracted for railway land construction. It seems he quickly fell in love with the climate and beautiful nature of this area.
Impressed by Karuizawa, Mr. Kajima collaborated with the founder of the Manpeihotel and purchased a vast piece of land totaling 150,000 tsubo.
Afterward, in the Taisho era, this area became known as a villa land, and the old Karuizawa Golf Club was established. In 1956, a lodge named "Kajima no Mori Lodge" was built for guests of this golf club.
Eventually, in 1977, the property underwent a complete renovation and was reborn as the current "Hotel Kajima no Mori."
Today, over 99% of its shareholders are from Kajima Tokyo Development, yet the hotel operations are entrusted to Hotel Okura.

With its prime location, easily accessible to various spots in Karuizawa while still being quiet and comfortable, I decided to explore the area by renting bicycles after checking in.
We visited gourmet places like Karuizawa Chocolate Factory and Branger Asanoya Old Road Store, as well as some stylish shops. By the way, the rental fee was JPY 500 for up to 2 hours per bike.

The room was simple yet chic, offering a view of nature outside the window. I relaxed while watching the leaves gently fall, swaying in the wind.

Meals for both dinner and breakfast were served in the Continental Room.
Featuring fresh, crisp vegetables and seasonal ingredients from Karuizawa, the hotel provides high-quality cuisine that ensures a high level of satisfaction.

There is a small shop next to the front desk where you can buy souvenirs, including limited edition products unique to Kajima no Mori, not just items from Okura.
Additionally, there is an esthetic room where you can receive treatments such as aromatherapy massages and Thai massages. Using the medical cosmetics "The Resurrection," which originated in Karuizawa, will make your relaxation time even more luxurious.

However, the bed in the room was a bit firm. Personally, I would have preferred a bed with a little more cushioning.

Nonetheless, it was truly a wonderful hotel where I could fully enjoy the ideal image of Karuizawa, making it a memorable wedding anniversary.
Thank you very much!