A January Stay at Kyukaruizawa Kikyo Hotel

I traveled to Kyukaruizawa in January and stayed at the Kikyo Hotel. The town felt quiet in winter, and the hotel’s atmosphere matched that calm — small-scale, warm, and deliberately relaxed. The building’s common areas have a low, comfortable light and a mix of modern and classy touches that made evenings feel restful after a day out walking the nearby streets.

The room was comfortable and well-appointed. The bedding was soft, and the layout made it easy to settle in; I remember appreciating the little touches. The hotel provided complimentary drinks, which was a nice, effortless perk. From my room I could step out for a short walk to the local shops and cafés that cluster near the station. January air was cold but with layers you could walk around and enjoy the small town.

We had a driver meet us at the station and take us to the hotel, which made the arrival seamless and more comfortable in the cold weather. The surrounding area is easy to navigate on foot once you’re settled. Small cafés and a handful of shops make for pleasant wandering, with enough variety to make a day of exploration without feeling rushed. After dinner I liked sitting in the hotel lounge with a warm drink and letting the quiet of the evening settle in.