(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
Hoshinoya Karuizawa, located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, will host the eco-tour “Karuizawa Nature Stay” from October 1 to November 30, 2024. This eco-tour, developed in collaboration with PICCHIO, which conducts wildlife research and eco-tours in Karuizawa, is based on Hoshino Resorts’ history and philosophy of valuing nature and culture. The program is centered around the concept of “staying in a valley village” and allows participants to enjoy and learn about the rich natural environment of the Hoshino area, celebrating Hoshino Resorts’ 110th anniversary.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
A highlight of the program is the private nature tour provided by PICCHIO, experts in wildlife ecology. During the tour, participants will learn about bear behavior during the day and have the opportunity to observe wild flying squirrels at dusk. The tour provides insights gained from over 20 years of bear conservation activities and offers a chance to reflect on the coexistence of bears and humans. Activities include following bear tracks and signs of feeding, visiting bear-proof trash cans, and experiencing a simulated bear capture using a drum can trap. After returning from the forest, participants can interact with “Bear Dogs,” the first bear deterrent dogs introduced in Japan by PICCHIO.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
Additionally, the flying squirrel observation allows participants to see these creatures glide through the forest at dusk under the guidance of PICCHIO staff. Flying squirrels, which live their entire lives in trees for feeding, sleeping, and moving, are indicators of forest continuity and require a continuous, diverse, and rich forest habitat to thrive. The tour includes an indoor session to learn about flying squirrel ecology and observation tips, followed by an outdoor observation. With a 97.8% success rate of sighting flying squirrels (based on 2023 data), the tour is highly likely to provide participants with this unique experience.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
The nature activities offered at Hoshinoya Karuizawa are also appealing. The grounds feature beautiful gardens with seasonal plants like maple and Japanese maple, and guests can explore the valley village with a gardener, learning about the beauty and history of nature. At the “Forest’s Edge Cafe & Bar” located at the entrance to the Karuizawa Bird Sanctuary, visitors can enjoy special cocktails inspired by forest fruits and animals, savoring a moment immersed in the mysterious atmosphere of the evening forest.
NPO PICCHIO is dedicated to balancing “ensuring human safety” and “preventing bear extinction” in its bear conservation efforts. Since 1998, PICCHIO has conducted behavior research on Asiatic black bears in Karuizawa, developing bear-proof trash cans and introducing Japan’s first “Bear Dogs” in 2004. Their efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in public trash collection damage from over 100 incidents annually around 1999 to zero by 2009, and a notable decrease in bear sightings in urban areas. PICCHIO works with Karuizawa Town, using research data to explore ways for humans and bears to coexist at a safe distance.
(Source: Hoshino Resorts)
Hoshinoya Karuizawa features detached guest rooms surrounded by water, allowing guests to enjoy seasonal changes from their terraces, offering a relaxing stay amidst the rich natural environment of Karuizawa Bird Sanctuary.