Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic and well-preserved castles, is a must-visit destination in Nagano Prefecture. Its striking black exterior, rich samurai history, and panoramic views from the top floor make it a highlight for travelers. However, for most … Read More
Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions
Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions
Step into a mystical forest where legends live on.
Escape the crowds and discover Togakushi — a sacred mountain village steeped in ninja lore, towering cedar trees, and centuries-old shrines hidden deep in the forest. This guided walking tour blends stunning nature, rich mythology, and a taste of local soba — all in one unforgettable day.
✅ Tranquil forest walks beneath towering cedars
✅ Explore centuries-old mountain shrines
✅ Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Togakushi
✅ Enjoy handmade soba in a peaceful village setting
✅ Discover hidden beauty far from tourist crowds
⛩️ Full Day
A deeper journey through Togakushi’s forests, shrines, and the scenic Kagamiike Pond, with time for a soba lunch.
🕒 Duration: Approx. 6 hours
📍 Location: Togakushi, Nagano
👥 Group Size: Small groups for a personalized experience
🗣️ Language: English guide provided
🔎 What to Expect:
Dive deep into the serene forests and shrines of Togakushi with this immersive hiking adventure. Explore iconic sites, hear legendary stories of Amaterasu, and enjoy a traditional soba noodle lunch.
🌸 Perfect for Spring and Summer:
In spring, Togakushi comes alive with vibrant fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, creating a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere. Summer offers cool mountain breezes and lush forests, making it an ideal retreat from the heat. The trails are at their most inviting, offering a perfect escape into nature’s tranquility.
🍁 Perfect for Autumn:
During autumn, the trails of Togakushi transform into a breathtaking display of fiery red, orange, and golden leaves. The cedar-lined paths and Kagamiike (Mirror Pond) are particularly stunning, offering incredible opportunities for photography and peaceful immersion in nature’s seasonal beauty.
🏯 Tour Highlights:
1️⃣ Visit Kagamiike (Mirror Pond) for magical reflections and serene photography. Seasonal beauty shines year-round, from spring’s greenery to autumn’s vibrant foliage.
2️⃣ Walk the cedar-lined path to Okusha Shrine and discover Kuzuryusha’s spiritual significance.
3️⃣ Visit Chusha Shrine and learn about its role in local mythology and festivals.
4️⃣ Explore Hokosha Shrine, known for its steep stairs and connection to education.
5️⃣ Enjoy a traditional Togakushi soba noodle lunch.
6️⃣ Optional visit to the Togakure Ninpo Museum (admission not included).
7️⃣ Optional Visit to Zenkoji Temple: Add a visit to Nagano’s historic Zenkoji Temple before or after the Togakushi tour.
📋 Tour Information:
- Meeting Point:In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station
- Hiking Difficulty: Moderate – suitable for most fitness levels.
- What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera.
What’s Included
- 🚗 Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Nagano Station to Togakushi Shrine areas.
- 🗣️ English-Speaking Guide: Knowledgeable local guide to share insights about the history, mythology, and cultural significance of Togakushi.
- 🏯 Entry to Key Shrines: Access to the main Togakushi Shrines, including Chusha (Middle Shrine) and Okusha (Inner Shrine).
- 🌲 Nature Exploration: Guided hiking through scenic trails, including the cedar-lined path to Okusha.
- 🍜 Lunch: A delicious Togakushi soba noodle meal at a renowned local restaurant.
- 📸 Photography Assistance: Help capturing memorable moments amidst the stunning landscapes.
- 🛕 Optional Visit to Zenkoji Temple: Add a visit to Nagano’s historic Zenkoji Temple before or after the Togakushi tour.
- 🥷 Optional Visit to Togakure Ninpo Museum (Ninja Museum): Add a visit to the fascinating Ninja Museum to explore Togakushi’s rich ninja heritage.
What’s Excluded
- ❌ Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, or souvenirs purchased during the tour.
- ❌ Travel Insurance: Guests are encouraged to secure their own travel insurance.
- ❌ Additional Transportation: Any transport costs outside of the tour’s scope (e.g., getting to Nagano Station).
- ❌ Ninja Museum Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for the Togakure Ninpo Museum is not included.
This tour is perfect for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Togakushi’s spiritual and natural wonders, no matter the season.
⛩️ Half Day
A serene walk through Togakushi’s sacred forests and shrines, perfect for a shorter yet deeply refreshing nature and culture escape
🕒 Duration: Approx. 4 hours
📍 Location: Togakushi, Nagano
👥 Group Size: Small groups for a personalized experience
🗣️ Language: English guide provided
🔎 What to Expect:
Short on time? This compact yet enriching tour covers the must-see highlights of Togakushi, including its famous cedar-lined trails, iconic gates, and a delicious soba noodle lunch.
🏯 Tour Highlights:
1️⃣ Visit Okusha Shrine area via the famous cedar-lined path. In winter, while the shrine itself will be inaccessible due to snow, the spectacular ancient cedars blanketed in snow create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.
2️⃣ Learn the myth of Amaterasu and the cultural significance of Togakushi’s sacred sites.
3️⃣ Savor a bowl of Togakushi soba noodles at a renowned local restaurant in Chusha area.
4️⃣ Optional Visit to Zenkoji Temple: Add a visit to Nagano’s historic Zenkoji Temple before or after the Togakushi tour.
⛄️ Perfect for Winter ⛄️
This half-day tour is an excellent choice during the winter season for those who want to enjoy the snowy landscape and a shorter excursion.
Even though Okusha Shrine is inaccessible in winter, the cedar-lined path in the snow is a breathtaking sight and offers incredible photo opportunities.
📋 Tour Information:
Meeting Point:In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station
Hiking Difficulty: Moderate – suitable for most fitness levels.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera.
This half-day tour is ideal for those with limited time who still want to experience Togakushi’s beauty, spirituality, and local flavors.
💡 Why Join These Tours?
Expert Guidance: Learn about Japanese mythology, spirituality, and history.
Culinary Delight: Taste the famed Togakushi soba noodles.
Personalized Experience: Small group sizes ensure a relaxed and intimate journey.
Seasonal Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking scenery year-round — fresh greenery in spring, lush forests in summer, fiery leaves in autumn, and magical snowy landscapes in winter.
✅ What’s Included (Half Day Tour)
🚗 Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Nagano Station to the Togakushi Shrine area
🗣️ English-Speaking Guide: Knowledgeable local guide to share stories about Togakushi’s mythology, history, and cultural significance
🏯 Shrine Visits: Explore Chusha (Middle Shrine) and approach the Okusha (Inner Shrine) area
🌲 Nature Walk: Scenic forest trail walk — including the iconic cedar-lined path to Okusha (In winter, the inner shrine itself is inaccessible, but the cedar path is still a highlight)
🍜 Lunch: Enjoy a delicious handmade Togakushi soba meal at a locally loved restaurant
📸 Photography Assistance: Let your guide help capture stunning photos along the way
🏯 Zenkoji Temple Visit: Guided visit to Nagano’s historic Zenkoji Temple before heading to Togakushi
🥷 Optional Visit to Togakure Ninpo Museum: Visit the Ninja Museum if open (closed during winter months)
❌ What’s Not Included
❌ Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, or souvenirs during the tour
❌ Travel Insurance: Please secure your own travel insurance
❌ Additional Transportation: Any transport outside of the tour scope (e.g., getting to Nagano Station)
❌ Ninja Museum Entrance Fee: Admission to the Togakure Ninpo Museum is not included
Whether you’re seeking a full-day adventure or a shorter escape, Togakushi Shrine tours promise an unforgettable journey through nature, culture, and tradition. 🌲✨
- Photo Friendly
- 6h for Full day / 4h for Half day
- 2 to 12 people
- All weather
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🕒 Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Itinerary:
8:45 AM – Meet Your Guide
- Meet your guide In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)
- Board the vehicle and begin your journey to Togakushi.
9:30 AM – Arrival at Kagamiike (Mirror Pond)
- Start your tour at this serene pond, where the mountains of Togakushi are beautifully reflected on the water.
- Enjoy peaceful surroundings and capture breathtaking photos.
9:50 AM – Visit Tenmei Inari Shrine
- Explore this hidden gem with its picturesque red Shinto gates in a line, a stunning spot for photos and reflection.
- Afterward, proceed to the Okusha area entrance.
10:20 AM – Arrival at Okusha Area & Cedar-Lined Path
- Begin your walk along the iconic path lined with towering 400-year-old cedar trees, passing through the majestic Zuishinmon Gate.
- The 2km trail immerses you in the tranquil beauty of the forest.
10:50 AM – Visit Okusha Shrine & Kuzuryusha Shrine
- Visit Kuzuryusha Shrine, dedicated to the nine-headed dragon deity of water and matchmaking.
- Continue to Okusha Shrine, the innermost shrine enshrining the god of strength linked to the Amaterasu legend.
11:20 AM – Optional Visit to Togakure Ninpo Museum (Ninja Museum)
- Guests who choose this option will visit the Ninja Museum, located near the Okusha area.
- Learn about the history of Togakure-ryu ninjutsu, explore ninja tools and artifacts, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
- Note: The admission fee for the Ninja Museum is not included in the tour price.
- Approximate time spent: 40 minutes.
12:10 PM – Lunch at Chusha Area
- Savor a delicious bowl of Togakushi soba noodles, one of Japan’s most famous soba dishes, at a local restaurant.
12:50 PM – Visit Chusha Shrine (Middle Shrine)
- 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.
1:10 PM – Visit Hokosha Shrine (Lower Shrine)
- Conclude your shrine visits with Hokosha, dedicated to Ame-no-Uwaharu, the deity of learning and agriculture.
- Climb the impressive staircase and take in the tranquil surroundings.
1:50 PM – Depart Togakushi
- Board the vehicle and head back toward Nagano Station or Zenkoji Temple.
2:45 PM – Return to Nagano Station or Explore Zenkoji Temple
- Enjoy a self-guided visit to this historic Buddhist site before your return. Zenkoji Highlights: Explore the grand main hall, stroll along Nakamise Street, and discover charming traditional shops. A convenient pickup back to Nagano Station is available afterward.
Tour Ending Time:
- The exact tour ending time may vary depending on the group’s pace and preferences during the shrine visits, lunch, and optional stops.
- The tour is designed to conclude by 2:45 PM, but flexibility is built in to accommodate a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- For guests opting to visit Zenkoji Temple, the timing will also depend on the drop-off at Zenkoji and your self-guided exploration.
Itinerary:
8:45 AM – Meet Your Guide
- Meet your guide In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)
- Board a comfortable vehicle and enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive to Togakushi, with your guide sharing insights about Nagano’s history, culture, and Togakushi’s spiritual significance.
9:30 AM – Arrival at Okusha Area & Cedar-Lined Path
- Begin your journey at the entrance of the Okusha Shrine area.
- Walk along the famous cedar-lined trail, surrounded by towering 400-year-old trees that create a mystical and serene atmosphere.
- In Winter: The Okusha Shrine itself is inaccessible due to heavy snow, but the cedar-lined path transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Snow-covered trees and trails create a peaceful, otherworldly setting, perfect for photography and enjoying nature’s beauty.
10:30 AM – Visit Okusha Shrine & Kuzuryusha Shrine (Seasonal)
- Learn about Kuzuryusha Shrine, dedicated to the nine-headed dragon deity of water and matchmaking.
- Continue to Okusha Shrine, enshrining the god of strength who moved the rock for Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, to emerge.
- In Winter: While the shrines themselves cannot be accessed, your guide will share their history and significance as you enjoy the serene snowy landscape.
11:10 AM – Traditional Togakushi Soba Lunch in Chusha Area
- After the shrine visit, enjoy a delicious meal featuring Togakushi soba noodles, a regional specialty served with a flavorful dipping sauce.
- What Makes Togakushi Soba Unique: These hand-cut noodles are celebrated for their fresh, nutty taste and centuries-old tradition of soba-making in Togakushi.
12:00 PM – Depart Togakushi
- Board the vehicle and head back toward Nagano Station or Zenkoji Temple.
12:45 PM – Tour Concludes
- Option 1: Return to Nagano Station, where your guide will bid you farewell.
- Option 2: Enjoy a self-guided visit to this historic Buddhist site before your return. Zenkoji Highlights: Explore the grand main hall, stroll along Nakamise Street, and discover charming traditional shops. A convenient pickup back to Nagano Station is available afterward.
Tour Ending Time:
- The exact tour ending time may vary depending on the group’s pace and preferences during the shrine visits and lunch.
- While the tour is designed to conclude by 12:45 PM, some flexibility is built in to ensure an enjoyable and unhurried experience for everyone.
- For guests opting to visit Zenkoji Temple, the timing will also depend on the drop-off at Zenkoji.
This tour is perfect for:
🌿 Travelers who enjoy quiet nature walks and meaningful cultural sites
📷 Photographers and nature lovers seeking seasonal beauty in every step
🍜 Foodies excited to taste authentic Togakushi soba in a mountain setting
🙏 Those interested in Japanese spirituality, Shinto, and shrine culture
👨👩👧👦 Couples, friends, and families looking for a relaxed, guided day away from the crowds
🚄 Visitors coming from Tokyo or staying in Nagano who want a deep yet accessible adventure
Whether you’re drawn by the towering cedars, crisp mountain air, or sacred energy of the shrines — this experience offers a truly refreshing escape.
Q: Is this tour suitable for beginners or older travelers?
A: The tour is suitable for most active travelers, but please note that some sections include uneven forest paths, stone steps, and a fairly steep stairway — especially near Okusha Shrine.
We walk at a relaxed pace and take plenty of breaks, but a basic level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
Q: What happens in winter? Can we still visit Okusha Shrine?
A: In winter, the inner shrine (Okusha) is inaccessible due to snow, but the iconic cedar-lined path remains open and is beautiful in the snow. The forest trail can be icy, but the experience is quiet, peaceful, and very atmospheric.
Q: Is lunch included?
A: Yes, both Full Day and Half Day tours include a handmade Togakushi soba lunch with tea, served at a well-loved local restaurant.
Q: Can I visit Zenkoji Temple on this tour?
A: Yes! The Half Day tour includes a guided visit to Zenkoji before heading to Togakushi. On the Full Day tour, Zenkoji can be added as an optional self-guided visit before or after the main tour.
Q: Can we visit the Ninja Museum?
A: Yes, the Togakure Ninpo Museum (Ninja Museum) can be added to both Full Day and Half Day tours if time and season allow.
Please note: the museum is closed in winter, and adding it will reduce the time spent at other locations like shrines or Kagamiike. We’re happy to adjust the schedule based on your preferences.
Q: Do I need hiking gear?
A: You don’t need full hiking gear, but please come prepared for the weather and trail conditions.
Spring to autumn: Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, light layers, and a rain jacket if needed.
Winter: Waterproof boots are essential. Warm layers and crampons or anti-slip grips are strongly recommended, as the trails can be snowy and icy.
Have a Question?
Contact us via email or WhatsApp. Please note that WhatsApp is only used for simple availability checks and post-booking communication.
Full-Day Tour Price
¥21,000 / person (10+)
Half-Day Tour Price
¥19,000 / person (10+)
📝 Tour Info
🕒 Start time: 08:45 am
⏳ Duration:
・Full Day: ~6 hours
・Half Day: ~4 hours
👥 Group size: 2–12 guests
💴 Price:
・Full Day: ¥21,000 (10+), ¥17,000 (ages 3–9)
・Half Day: ¥19,000 (10+), ¥15,000 (ages 3–9)
Infants (0–2): Free – lunch not included
🍱 Includes:
English-speaking guide, lunch & tea, round-trip transport from Nagano Station, Zenkoji Temple, shrine visits (Chusha & Okusha for both / Hokosha Full Day only), Kagamiike Pond (Full Day only)
🚫 Excludes:
Extra drinks/food, bullet train tickets, Togakure Ninja Museum admission (optional / closed in winter)
📍 Meeting point: In front of Beck’s Coffee inside Nagano Station (just outside the Shinkansen ticket gates)
Professional Guide
Local expert, personable English-speaking guides
Walking tour
Please wear suitable cloths & shoes for walking. Togakushi sits at an altitude of around 1,100m above sea level. If it rains, it will be cold even in summer time.
Lunch & Tea
You will have one of the best Soba noodle, which is Togakushi speciality.
Take the photo of spots on back street in Nagano for your Instagram album.
A littile bit about Togakushi Folk Tale.....
The deity of Oku-sha is Ame-no-Tajikarao.
In Japanese mythology, as recorded in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters), the reckless behavior of Susano’o, the god of storms, drove his sister Amaterasu, the sun goddess, into the Ama-no-Iwato cave.
Because Amaterasu is the goddess of the sun, her absence plunged Japan into darkness. To lure her out, the other gods devised a plan: they held a lively celebration in front of the cave. Amaterasu, curious about the source of the merriment, peeked out from the cave entrance.
At that moment, Ame-no-Tajikarao, the strongest of the gods, seized the opportunity. Using his immense strength, he forced the cave door open and hurled it as far as he could.
The place where the door landed is believed to be Togakushi Shrine, Oku-sha. This is why Togakushi literally means “hidden door” (戸隠).
If you check the distance between Ama-no-Iwato Shrine in Miyazaki Prefecture and Togakushi Shrine in Nagano Prefecture, you’ll find that it’s over 1,000 km apart.
Of course, this is just mythology—it’s up to you whether you believe it or not. However, when you visit Togakushi Shrine, you can feel its mystical, serene, refined, historical, and mysterious beauty.
You’ll understand why Togakushi Shrine is considered one of Japan’s most sacred places, standing alongside Ise Grand Shrine and Izumo Taisha in spiritual significance.
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