KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) | Schedule, Participating Athletes, and Ticket Information
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) is an international curling tournament held in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. Top teams from around the world and Japan national-level players gather here, allowing spectators to watch thrilling matches up close.
This article organizes information about the tournament overview, rules, past match results, and the 2026 tournament schedule and ticket information. We also provide easy-to-understand explanations of points to enhance your viewing experience and the attractions of Karuizawa tourism.
Table of Contents
1. KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling)
1-1. Match Overview & Rules
1-2. Competing Teams & Players
1-3. Tournament History
2. KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) | Past Match Results
2-1. 2024
2-2. 2023
2-3. 2022
3. 2026 KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) Overview
3-1. Tournament Overview & Schedule
3-2. Competing Teams & Players
3-3. Ticket Purchase Information
4. Points to Enhance Your KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) Viewing Experience
4-1. Basic Curling Rules and Positions
4-2. Key Points Unique to Curling
4-3. Useful Items for Curling Spectating
4-4. Spectating Etiquette to Follow at the Venue
5. What Kind of Place is Karuizawa? Introducing Ways to Enjoy Beyond Curling
5-1. Karuizawa's Location, Climate & Features
5-2. Local Gourmet and Popular Spots Unique to Karuizawa
5-3. The Charm of Karuizawa Where You Can Enjoy Both Tourism and Accommodation
5-4. Karuizawa Ice Park Facilities and Experience Programs
Summary
1. KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling)
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) is an international curling tournament held in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. It began in 1999 to commemorate the curling competition held in Karuizawa during the 1998 Nagano Olympics. Currently known as a tournament where top teams from around the world gather, it attracts significant attention not only domestically in Japan but also from overseas. The matches are held at Karuizawa Ice Park, where spectators can watch powerful plays up close due to the proximity to the players.
From here, we will introduce the match rules, participating teams, and the tournament's history in detail.
1-1. Match Overview & Rules
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) is a tournament where 8 teams each for men and women compete. The match format is 8 ends with a 2-pool system, where preliminary league matches are held initially, followed by a final tournament among the top 4 teams.
Each team consists of 4 players, with each player throwing 2 stones per end. A total of 16 stones are used in one end. The team with the stone closest to the center of the circle called the house scores points.
Match time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Once you understand the basic rules, even beginners can easily understand the scoring method, making it an accessible sport to watch.
1-2. Competing Teams & Players
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) features Japan national-level teams and overseas powerhouse teams every year. In the past, teams from curling powerhouse countries such as Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, Germany, South Korea, and the United States have participated.
Regular Japanese teams include SC Karuizawa Club, Fortius, Loco Solare, Hokkaido Bank, and Chubu Electric Power. From overseas, teams with world championship achievements such as Sweden's Team Hasselborg, Switzerland's Team Tirinzoni, and Germany's Team Muskatewitz have participated in the past.
This tournament is a valuable opportunity to watch top-level international matches in Japan. For international tourists, it will be a tournament where they can experience world-class curling.
1-3. Tournament History
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) began in 1999 to commemorate the 1998 Nagano Olympics. The Nagano Olympics was the first Olympics where curling received serious attention in Japan. Karuizawa, the host location, is considered an important place in the development of curling in Japan.
The tournament has continued for over 20 years and has now become one of the tournaments that top teams from various countries actively want to participate in. In addition to improving competitive levels, it also conducts curling clinics for local junior players, focusing on nurturing the next generation.
The major characteristic of this tournament is that competitors, spectators, and operational staff work together to continuously evolve the tournament.
2. KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) | Past Match Results
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) has been held annually in December, but the December 2025 tournament has been postponed, with the next tournament scheduled for March 2026. Here we introduce the match schedules and number of participating teams from recent tournaments.
2-1. 2024
The 2024 tournament was held for 3 days from December 13 to 15 at Karuizawa Ice Park in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. A total of 16 teams - 8 men's and 8 women's teams from 7 countries worldwide - participated, competing for victory through preliminary leagues and final tournaments.
In the women's final, Fortius defeated a Swedish powerhouse team 5-4 to win the championship. The comeback victory with 3 points scored in the final 8th end was a match that symbolized the tournament. In the men's final, SC Karuizawa Club faced a German team and finished as runners-up with a 4-10 loss.
The tournament increases prize money based on spectator ticket sales, and the 2024 tournament saw an additional 3 million yen added, making it a memorable tournament with high competitive levels and venue excitement.
2-2. 2023
The 2023 tournament was held from December 1 to 3 at Karuizawa Ice Park. This year marked the 25th anniversary milestone since the tournament's inception, with 16 teams for men and women combined gathering. World-class teams from Sweden, Canada, South Korea, and other countries participated, along with many prominent Japanese teams.
As usual, a press conference by representative players and curling clinics for local junior players were held the day before the tournament, attracting attention for both competitive and community exchange aspects.
The matches were intense from the preliminary leagues, with Canada's Team Gushue winning the men's division and Chubu Electric Power achieving their first victory in the women's division. The victories of the Canadian star team and the team based in local Karuizawa excited many spectators, making it a tournament where audiences could enjoy the atmosphere.
2-3. 2022
The 2022 tournament was held over 3 days from December 16 to 18. Eight teams each for men and women participated, with all preliminary leagues and final tournaments conducted in 8-end format.
In the women's division, the team led by South Korea's Kim Eun-jung defeated a Canadian powerhouse team 5-4 to win the championship. In the men's final, SC Karuizawa Club prevailed in a domestic showdown against TM Karuizawa, winning 5-4. This tournament featured many closely contested matches between Japanese teams and overseas powerhouses, strongly conveying curling's strategic nature and tension.
3. 2026 KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) Overview
In 2026, KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) is scheduled to be held in March in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. With the tournament taking place after the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics amid heightened interest in the sport, it will be a valuable opportunity to watch high-level matches up close. Here we introduce the 2026 tournament schedule, expected participating teams, and ticket purchase methods.
3-1. Tournament Overview & Schedule
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) will be held for 3 days from March 13 (Friday) to March 15 (Sunday), 2026, at "Karuizawa Ice Park" within Karuizawa Kazakoshi Park in Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture. While usually held in December, 2026 has been changed to early spring due to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games season.
3-2. Competing Teams & Players
Prominent domestic and international teams are scheduled to participate in the 2026 tournament. In the women's division, Sweden's Hasselborg (Milano Cortina Olympics gold medalists), Canada's next-generation team Gray-Withers aiming for the next Winter Olympics, and Japanese teams including Chubu Electric Power, LOCO STELLA, and Hokkaido Bank are listed.
In the men's division, Japan championship winner SC Karuizawa Club, Consadole, promising young team Sapporo International University, along with South Korean teams and Norway's Ramsfjell (4th place at Milano Cortina Olympics) will also participate. With players who have built achievements in world championships and tour tournaments gathering, you can watch high-tension and sophisticated tactical battles unique to the Olympic season up close.
3-3. Ticket Purchase Information
Spectator tickets are sold per session with a turnover system, not as full-day passes. "<Tickets in Japan> FanFun on ice SEAT" allows you to experience matches up close in the ice area for 100,000 yen per person (12 years and older), offering the unique intensity of the special area.
The tournament is scheduled for 8 sessions from March 13 to 15, with sales conducted through Tickets in Japan. Receipts can be issued after member registration. Due to expected crowds, arriving with plenty of time is recommended.
4. Points to Enhance Your KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) Viewing Experience
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) becomes much more enjoyable to watch with just a little knowledge of the rules and highlights. While curling may appear to be a slow-paced sport, it actually involves precise strategy and split-second decisions that determine victory or defeat.
Here we introduce basic knowledge, key points to watch, and preparation and etiquette for spectating that will be helpful even for first-time viewers.
4-1. Basic Curling Rules and Positions
Curling is played with 4 players per team over 10 ends (KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) uses an 8-end format), with victory determined by total score. What to focus on when spectating is not just the score, but the intention of "where to place the stones". Due to the Free Guard Zone Rule, stones cannot be easily knocked out in the early part of each end. Therefore, stone placement becomes crucial as groundwork for defense or offense.
Understanding the role of each position also makes matches more enjoyable. Lead and Second handle accurate shots and sweeping, while Third assists with tactical decisions. Skip acts as the commander, organizing strategy. Understanding these roles makes player coordination more clearly visible.
4-2. Key Points Unique to Curling
Curling is called "chess on ice" due to its high strategic nature. Since one shot can completely change the situation, players constantly think several moves ahead while playing. When spectating, pay attention to stone placement, the trajectory and speed of thrown stones.
Furthermore, ice conditions also affect match development. Fine irregularities on the rink surface change as the match progresses. The technique of reading these changes and making fine adjustments through sweeping is one of the highlights. The psychological warfare conducted in quiet tension and the excitement when a successful shot is made are unique attractions of curling spectating.
4-3. Useful Items for Curling Spectating
Curling venues maintain lower temperatures even indoors to keep the ice in good condition. Bringing warm outerwear or lap blankets will help you stay comfortable during long viewing sessions. Binoculars are also useful for closely observing stone positions and player expressions.
Since matches last over 2 hours each, having beverages is convenient. However, check venue rules beforehand regarding what can be brought in.
4-4. Spectating Etiquette to Follow at the Venue
Since curling is a sport where concentration is crucial, spectating etiquette is particularly emphasized. Just before players begin their delivery or during sweeping, refrain from applause or cheering and watch quietly. Applauding after points are scored or at the end of ends provides good support for players. Also, avoid cheering for opponents' mistakes out of consideration.
Additionally, stay within designated spectating areas at the venue and be careful not to enter the ice or player pathways. Photography may be allowed but flash is prohibited, so check beforehand. Following basic etiquette allows both players and spectators to enjoy the tournament comfortably.
5. What Kind of Place is Karuizawa? Introducing Ways to Enjoy Beyond Curling
If you're attending KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling), you'll also want to enjoy Karuizawa tourism. Karuizawa is one of Japan's premier resort destinations featuring nature, history, shopping, and gourmet experiences. Winter brings clear air and beautiful snowy landscapes, making it easy to plan trips combining match viewing with tourism.
Here we introduce basic information about Karuizawa and recommended ways to enjoy it, explained clearly for international tourists.
5-1. Karuizawa's Location, Climate & Features
Karuizawa is located at the eastern edge of Nagano Prefecture, spreading across highlands at approximately 900-1,000m elevation. Using the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station, you can arrive in about 1 hour. Its excellent access from the capital and rich natural environment are major attractions.
The annual average temperature is about 9°C, with cool summers and cold winters. Winter average temperatures drop below 0°C, but the area is characterized by high clear weather rates and crisp air.
Karuizawa developed as a resort after Canadian missionary Alexander Croft Shaw introduced it as a summer retreat during the Meiji period. It continues to attract many international tourists as an international resort destination.
5-2. Local Gourmet and Popular Spots Unique to Karuizawa
In winter Karuizawa, tourist spots where you can enjoy natural scenery are popular. A representative location is "Shiraito Falls". In winter, the waterfall freezes, creating a fantastical landscape.
For gourmet experiences, cuisine using Karuizawa vegetables, bakeries, and cafes are abundant. During the cold season, many establishments offer warm soups and coffee, making them suitable for post-match dining.
5-3. The Charm of Karuizawa Where You Can Enjoy Both Tourism and Accommodation
Karuizawa offers abundant tourism and accommodation options. The Old Karuizawa area features historic churches and villa architecture scattered throughout, perfect for strolling.
For shopping enthusiasts, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza is recommended. Located within walking distance from the station, it houses domestic and international brand shops.
Accommodation facilities range from luxury resort hotels to casual hotels and hot spring accommodations. The ability to easily adjust your stay duration according to match schedules is another charm of Karuizawa.
5-4. Karuizawa Ice Park Facilities and Experience Programs
The tournament venue Karuizawa Ice Park is Japan's largest year-round curling facility. Equipped with 6 sheets, it hosts everything from international to domestic competitions.
For the general public, curling experience programs that even beginners can participate in are available. There are 60-minute, 90-minute, and 120-minute courses, covering everything from basic movement explanations to mini-games. The facility also includes rest areas and meeting rooms. Participating in actual curling experiences along with match viewing deepens your understanding of the sport and makes your Karuizawa stay more memorable.
Summary
KARUIZAWA INTERNATIONAL (Curling) is a valuable tournament where you can experience world-class curling while in Japan. The speedy development of the 8-end format and the intricate tactical battles unfolding on ice are both accessible to beginners and highly entertaining.
The 2026 tournament will be held in March, with high-quality matches expected unique to the Olympic season. Combining spectating with Karuizawa tourism and gourmet experiences will further enhance your stay satisfaction. The key is to check the latest information and arrange tickets well in advance.
※This article was created based on information as of February 2026
