St. Paul's Catholic Church in Karuizawa

Nestled along “Waterwheel Lane,” just a short step off the main Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, this is the only Catholic church in Karuizawa.

It has long been cherished by many and has appeared in famous literary works such as Yasunari Kawabata’s Palm-of-the-Hand Stories and Tatsuo Hori’s The Wind Has Risen.

Designed in 1935 by Antonin Raymond—an American architect often referred to as the father of modern architecture in Japan—the church is known for its striking spire and steeply pitched triangular roof. The design of the roof incorporates traditional architectural elements from Raymond’s homeland, the Czech Republic, which adds to its unique charm.
Inside, the church features a high ceiling with exposed wooden scissors trusses, creating a spacious yet warm atmosphere where visitors can relax and soak in the serene surroundings. The church is also a popular wedding venue, and some celebrities have even tied the knot here.

Located just a short walk from Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, it’s well worth a visit while strolling through the area.