How necessary are snow tires/chains to drive to Karuizawa in early January? We’re not going to any ski resorts or mountain roads.
UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who responded. You’ve convinced me. I made an appointment at Costco. If it helps anyone they have a campaign starting on January 2 to save 3000 yen off 4 tires. It takes about a week for them to receive them once you reserve. Cheers to the English speaking Isami-san at Costco Kawasaki. Great guy. Also, Upgarage rents winter tires for pretty cheap but they were sold out.