What better way to appreciate the town than to stay near a play garden and pond? With an adjacent musical hall built with donations from former Sony President Norio Ohga, Yagasaki Park is a charming open area well worth a visit. Or many visits, if you live nearby, like what I did. Before our leaving Karuizawa, our family came to the pond (mostly frozen except a small area for mallards and Eurasian coots) and shared the last bits of bread with them. That's always fun activity for children (who would love the swing and slides there too).

The Yagasaki Park was just a 5-minute bike ride away from the hotel I stayed. I found myself here on a cool autumn morning, engulfed by the tranquility, overlooking Mount Hanare, impressed by the magnificent Ohga Hall.