Hakone and Karuizawa too similar?

Hello,
I am taking a 7 night trip out of Tokyo during late January. Hakone and Karuizawa have caught my attention. But are they too similar to do in one trip, in terms of experiences? Would anyone recommend one place over the other? And is there enough to do in both over Winter? Any advice appreciated.

Thank you,
vpob

not really. Hakone has more to do and more scenery though over a much bigger area. It is popular for overnight stays in ryokans for the onsen. Karuizawa is a pretty small, trendy town with upmarket restaurants and lots of shopping and a huge shopping centre.

We stay at Tsuruya Ryokan at Karuizawa and take the hike/walk from there to the Usui pass lookout, which was part of the Nakasendo Way. It is a very pleasant area, and the Ginza street is nice but aside from that there isnt a huge amount to do unless you are a mad shopper.

Both are nice enough and not very similar. Bessho Onsen is near to Karuizawa and is worth a look if you are into onsens.

Just to add, Karuizawa is more popular in summer so a lot of shops might be closed in late January when it will be likely to have quite a bit of snow.

If you like those areas also consider Enoshima, just off Kamakura. We stay at Iwamotoro Honkan there which is great.

Thank you, those responses are very helpful.