Feels just like coming home to the countryside. The dishes are simple but full of flavor, with generous portions that really warm your heart. The rice is delicious, and the side dishes go perfectly with it. Super satisfying meal—perfect if you're craving homemade-style food!

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Sonmin-Shokudo (Karuizawa)
A restaurant that welcomes visitors to the “Beautiful Village of Karuizawa.”
Karuizawa, often referred to as the “Beautiful Village” in the works of novelist Tatsuo Hori, is home to Sonmin-Shokudo, a restaurant produced by Hoshino Resorts. Its concept is “a casual dining spot that warmly welcomes visitors to this beautiful village of Karuizawa with delicious meals.”
The restaurant’s charm lies in its approachable style, serving dishes made with plenty of fresh, seasonal ingredients from Shinshu. At lunchtime, set meals are the main offering, while in the evening, à la carte dishes paired with local Shinshu sake are highly recommended. A popular choice is the Shinshu Irodori Gozen, a set featuring around eight small plates, including Shinshu salmon and mushrooms, with the selection changing seasonally to highlight the best flavors of the region. Other favorites include hearty local specialties like the Miso Sanzoku-yaki Teishoku-a dish of large pieces of chicken deep-fried in bold, flavorful style.
For special occasions, guests can also reserve a private horigotatsu room for six to ten people, where course-style meals are served.
Highlights
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A casual restaurant produced by Hoshino Resorts.
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Offers a wide variety of dishes inspired by Shinshu’s local cuisine, such as the Miso Sanzoku-yaki Teishoku.
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Features an extensive selection of local Shinshu craft beers and sake.
Photos
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“Shinshu Irodori Gozen,” a set meal featuring seasonal flavors (photo for illustration purposes)
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Enjoy your meal in a bright, open space with wide windows
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“Miso Sanzoku-yaki Teishoku,” a creative take on Shinshu’s local cuisine
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A selection of craft beers is also available
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An extensive lineup of local Shinshu sake
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Located within the Hoshino Area, right next to “Hoshino Onsen Tombo-no-Yu”
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have menus in foreign languages or with pictures? (If so, please let us know the languages available.)
Yes, we do. (English is available).
Q
Do you serve vegetarian menus?
No.
Q
Is takeout available?
Sonmin-Shokudo does not offer takeout meals. However, the adjoining Hungry Spot Café has a takeout drink menu available.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the restaurant?
Yes, it is.
Q
Is it possible to reserve a seat?
No, it isn’t.
Reviews
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 村民食堂
- Postal Code
- 389-0111
- Address
- Hoshino, Karuizawamachi, Nagano
- Telephone
- 0267-44-3571
- Closed
- Open every day
- Business Hours
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11:30am - 9:30 (L.O.8:30pm)
summer season (mid-july to end of august): 11:00 am - 10:00 pm (last order 9:00 pm) - Budget
- Lunch 2,000yen-, Dinner 3,000yen-
- Access
- About 1 minute walk from " Tombo no yu" bus stop
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)