Japanese Insight

This is a charming, highly cozy dining sanctuary that feels like a warm mountain lodge. While Karuizawa is famous for late-rising resort schedules and slow mornings, this lovely little house restaurant is a rare and precious gem: it is one of the few independent local cafés that opens early in the morning (starting at 7:00 AM in the summer and 8:00 AM in the winter). Complete with beautiful hardwood floors, an iconic central iron stove, and a pet-friendly outdoor deck surrounded by lush highland greenery, it offers a flawless masterclass in comforting, high-satisfaction resort breakfast culture.

The breakfast experience perfectly combines freshly baked sweets with a rare, savory European potato specialty:

• The Signature Golden-Crisp Waffles: A staple of their morning menu, the freshly baked Waffles here are absolutely spectacular. Boasting a beautiful harmony of a crisp exterior and a fluffy, light interior, they are elegantly served in a classic breakfast plate alongside premium scrambled eggs, high-quality sausage, a fresh side salad, and a comforting hot soup.

• The Authentic Swiss Rösti (The Famous Potato Masterpiece): The absolute standout insider favorite that potato lovers rave about is their authentic Rösti set. Rösti is a traditional Swiss national comfort food made by pan-frying finely shredded potatoes into a thick, golden cake. Oxalis executes this beautifully: the potato pancake is fried to a perfect, buttery crunch on the outside while remaining incredibly soft and tender on the inside, beautifully enhanced with melted cheese and topped with a rich, runny sunny-side-up egg.

• Hours:

  • Summer : 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM

  • Winter : 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM

  • Closed: Thursdays