The Relocation and Restoration of Shaw House
Shaw’s original villa was built on Otsukayama, a small hill in the Old Karuizawa area. In the early Showa period, businessman Junzo Kosaka had the building relocated to the grounds of Karuizawa Church, where both its exterior and interior were renovated.
As the years passed, preserving the historic building became increasingly important. In 1986, thanks to the efforts of the Shaw House Restoration Committee, the building was relocated once again and reconstructed beside the present-day Shaw Memorial Chapel.
The restoration sought to reproduce the house as faithfully as possible to its original appearance, allowing visitors to experience an important part of Karuizawa’s early resort history.
Objects Used by Alexander Croft Shaw
Inside the memorial, visitors can see many of Shaw’s personal belongings, including furniture, everyday household items, and books. These objects provide an intimate glimpse into his personality and daily life.
The interior features a simple yet warm British-inspired style, reflecting the atmosphere of the period when foreign residents began spending their summers in Karuizawa. The house is therefore valuable not only as an architectural landmark but also as a record of the cultural and spiritual influences that helped shape the town.
Access and Visitor Information
The Shaw House Memorial can be reached by bus from Karuizawa Station, served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen and Shinano Railway. Get off at the Kyukaruizawa Rotary bus stop and walk for approximately 10 minutes.
The walk provides an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful streets and greenery of Old Karuizawa along the way.
Opening Hours
The memorial is normally open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the busy summer season from July through September, opening hours are extended until 6:00 p.m.
It is normally closed on Thursdays and the day following a public holiday. The facility is also closed during the winter period from November 1 through March 31. During the peak summer period from July 15 through September 15, however, it is open every day.
Admission
Admission is free, making the memorial an easy addition to a sightseeing walk around Old Karuizawa.
Shaw Memorial Chapel
Immediately beside the Shaw House Memorial stands the Shaw Memorial Chapel, a church belonging to the Chubu Diocese of the Anglican Church in Japan.
The chapel is closely associated with Shaw’s faith and legacy and is regarded as the oldest church in Karuizawa. The foundations of the present building were established in 1895, and the structure underwent several renovations before reaching approximately its present form by 1922.
The chapel was consecrated by Bishop Edward Bickersteth. In its front garden are a bust of Alexander Croft Shaw and a memorial monument donated by local residents in 1903.
Sights to Explore Around Shaw House
Old Karuizawa Ginza
Old Karuizawa Ginza is a popular shopping street where visitors can browse local specialties, souvenirs, cafés, and Karuizawa-style cuisine.
Tsuruya Ryokan
Tsuruya Ryokan is a historic traditional inn with a history of more than 400 years. It was also a favorite destination for writers, artists, and other cultural figures.
St. Paul’s Catholic Church
St. Paul’s Catholic Church is known for its beautiful wooden Gothic-style architecture and is another historic religious landmark in Old Karuizawa.
Kumoba Pond
Kumoba Pond is a peaceful natural spot surrounded by greenery. Its scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely walk.
Former Mikasa Hotel
The Former Mikasa Hotel is a representative example of Western-style architecture from the Meiji era. The historic hotel once welcomed prominent guests from Japan and abroad.
Manpei Hotel
Manpei Hotel is one of Karuizawa’s best-known classic hotels. Its long history and connection with famous visitors, including John Lennon, have made it an enduring symbol of the resort.
Karuizawa Union Church
Karuizawa Union Church was established as a place of worship for foreign missionaries and residents. Worship services continue to be held there today, maintaining a link with Karuizawa’s international heritage.
Step into the Origins of Karuizawa’s Resort Culture
The Shaw House Memorial offers a glimpse into the early days of Karuizawa as an international summer resort. Through the preserved building and Shaw’s personal belongings, visitors can learn about the missionary whose appreciation of this cool mountain environment helped establish a new cultural chapter in Karuizawa.
Set among the greenery of Old Karuizawa and next to the historic Shaw Memorial Chapel, the house provides a quiet opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the Meiji era. It is an especially interesting destination for travelers interested in history, architecture, religion, and the origins of Karuizawa’s unique international resort culture.