Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions

Discover the sacred forests and ancient shrines of Togakushi on this guided walking tour from Nagano. Follow hidden mountain paths lined with towering cedars, visit important Shinto sites like Chusha and Okusha, and hear the legends of Japanese mythology from your local English-speaking guide. Along the way, take in stunning alpine scenery and enjoy a traditional lunch of handmade Togakushi soba noodles, a regional specialty. Depending on the season and conditions, the route may also include quiet forest trails, scenic ponds, or optional cultural stops.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   5 min

   In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)

2. 2

   Stop 2

   40 min

   Get on the vehicle with you guide and heading to Togakushi.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   20 min

   Arrival at Kagamiike Pond. It is a spectacular spot of fresh greens and forest where the mountains of Togakushi are reflected on the surface of the water like Kagami (mirror in Japanese) ＊＊Please note: This spot is not accessible during the winter months due to snow, but its beauty in other seasons makes it a must-visit.＊＊

4. 4

   Stop 4

   20 min

   We will visit hidden gem and view a beautiful red Shinto gates in line called Tenmei Inari Shrine. After this we will be heading to the entrance of Okusha area. ＊＊Please note: This spot is not accessible during the winter months due to snow, but its beauty in other seasons makes it a must-visit.＊＊

5. 5

   Stop 5

   20 min

   Arrival at Okusha area. You will see 400 years old massive cedar trees linking to the path to Oku Sha. This journey into the heart of the forest is about 2km long and through the red Zuishinmon Gate, past cedar trees, up to the Main Hall which sits spectacularly on the mountainside of Mt. Togakushi. ＊＊Please note: The Okusha shrine is not accessible during winter due to snow, but visitors can still enjoy the breathtaking cedar-lined path and the serene winter scenery along the way.＊＊

6. 6

   Togakushi Shrine Okusha

   20 min

   Arrival at Okusha Shrine, where is the innermost of the five Togakushi shrines. The shrine enshrines the god of strength, who moved the rock so that Amaterasu could come out of hiding. Okusha Shrine is considered the most important of the five Togakushi shrines. After this, we will be go back to the entrance of Okusha area. ＊＊PLease note: The Okusha shrine is not accessible during winter due to snow, but visitors can still enjoy the breathtaking cedar-lined path and the serene winter scenery along the way.

7. 7

   Togakushi Shrine Kuzuryusha

   25 min

   Arrival at Kuzuryusha Shrine, which is The former enshrines a nine-headed dragon, which governs water. Farmers make prayers for rain here. In addition, it is also worshipped as a god of matchmaking. ＊＊Please note:The Kuzuryusha shrine is not accessible during winter due to snow, but visitors can still enjoy the breathtaking cedar-lined path and the serene winter scenery along the way.＊＊

8. 8

   Togakushi Folk Museum Togakushi Ninja Museum

   30 min

   Optional visit to the Togakure Ninpo Museum (admission not included).

9. 9

   Togakushi Shrine Chusha

   1 hour

   Visit Chusha Shrine (Middle Shrine) Savor a delicious bowl of Togakushi soba noodles, one of Japan’s most famous soba dishes, at a local restaurant. Explore the central shrine of Togakushi, dedicated to Tajikarao-no-Mikoto, the god who brought light back to the world. Admire the cedar-lined approach and traditional architecture.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    15 min

    Visit Hokosha. The Lower Shrine, dedicated to Ame-no-Uwaharu, a deity associated with learning and agriculture. ＊＊PLease note:The Hokosha shrine may not accessible during winter due to snow, but visitors can still enjoy the breathtaking cedar-lined path and the serene winter scenery along the way.

11. 11

    Zenko-ji Temple

    Pass by

    Zenkoji Temple Option: Visit this historic Buddhist site with a convenient pickup back to Nagano Station.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    40 min

    Get on the vehicle with you guide and heading back to Nagano station. Please note: The duration of this tour depends on the walking pace of the group, so please have extra time for your next schedule after this tour.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Please do not eat or drink coffee inside the vehicle to keep it clean for everyone. Bottled water and small pets in carriers are okay.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.