SHOLA at SHISHI-IWA-HOUSE KARUIZAWA

Food and service were exceptional. This stands out as one of my favorite meals across multiple trips to Japan. The careful use of local ingredients and care put into each dish showcases the team’s craftsmanship so beautifully. Healthy and also outlandishly tasty. Worth coming to on its own if you’re staying in Karuizawa!

I cannot recommend the chef and the team at Shola enough for the wonderful dining experience they gave us in Japan. We were guests staying at the hotel where Shola is based. After check-in the reservations team managed to get us a spot for dinner. We are vegetarian and don't eat eggs, fish or meat. The team there took this of highest importance and the chef came out to reassure us of the changes he personally made to ensure our dietary requirements were managed. They truly went above and beyond for us. Everyone made of feel welcome. The staff were always smiling and trying their best to make us feel special. The food tastes great, probably the best of the 2 weeks we had here in Japan. Special mention was the kinkan and elderflower based desert the chef made on the spot when he was made aware that the 2 regular options (both sounded delicious too) contained egg. It was a pleasure to be there with my wife and we will come back next time we visit Japan. Amazing chef, team and restaurants. Beautiful architecture and atmosphere too.

The dinner here was amazing, more like a fine dining experience rather than traditional Japanese kaiseki-ryōri. It had a fusion, Scandinavian style, with the chef creatively using local ingredients. We truly enjoyed both the flavors and the stunning visual presentation. We're so glad we chose to dine here—highly recommended!

Best dining experience in Karizawa, if you stay in Shishi-Iwa-house, this is a must try experience!

Phenomenal eating. While definitely upscale it didn't have any of the pressure that can accompany fine dining. Highly recommend the oats for breakfast as that was, hands down, the group favorite

My partner and I were able to enjoy a closed set menu prepared with local products from the Karuizawa area, masterfully cooked by Chef Okamoto-san. The flavors and textures were very well integrated, as well as the preparation and proposal of the menu itself. The setting of the restaurant, inside Sishi - Iwa - House, made it even more special. Many thanks to the Restaurant Service Leader, Yusuke Mori, and Chef Okamoto, with whom we were privileged to share our impressions at the end of the evening, for a perfect evening. If you are wondering about the price, it is more than fair if you objectively value Shola's proposal. Warm greetings from Spain.

Amazing dinner The chef puts really much attention to detail and his passion of sharing locally sourced products.

Absolutely exquisite meal in a serene setting with attentive service. Ingredients are all locally sourced and delivered in balanced omakase by Chef Okamoto and his friendly team. Special mention to the cured salmon and mushrooms which were incredible. Looking forward to returning in autumn to enjoy the vibrant forest surroundings.