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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 explore Togakushi — a sacred mountain village with towering cedar trees, hidden shrines, and deep spiritual roots. Walk forest trails to the majestic Okusha Shrine, stop by the peaceful Kagami-ike Pond, and enjoy handmade Togakushi soba for lunch.
Optional visits include the Togakushi Ninja Museum (seasonal) or a stop at Zenkoji Temple after the tour. A perfect mix of nature, history, and culture — all in one refreshing day trip.
✅ Begin your morning with tranquil forest walks beneath towering cedars
✅ Explore centuries-old mountain shrines and experience Togakushi’s spiritual atmosphere
✅ Enjoy handmade soba in a peaceful village setting
✅ Discover hidden beauty far from tourist crowds
✅ Option to visit the Togakure Ninja Museum after the shrine walk
✅ Optional stop at Zenkoji Temple before returning to Nagano Station
✅ Round-trip transportation from Nagano Station included
⛩️ Full Day
A deeper journey through Togakushi’s forests, shrines, and the scenic Kagamiike Pond, with time for a soba lunch.
🔎 What to Expect
Step into a world where ancient legends whisper through towering cedars and sacred shrines. This immersive day in Togakushi offers more than just a hike — it’s a journey into Japan’s mystical heartland.
🌸 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.
🍁 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
- Visit Kagamiike (Mirror Pond) for magical reflections and serene photography.
- Walk the cedar-lined path to Okusha Shrine and discover Kuzuryusha’s spiritual significance.
- Visit Chusha Shrine and learn about its role in local mythology and festivals.
- Explore Hokosha Shrine, known for its steep stairs and connection to education.
- Enjoy a traditional Togakushi soba noodle lunch.
- Optional: Visit the Togakure Ninpo Museum (admission not included).
- Optional: Visit Zenkoji Temple before or after the 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
- 🚗 Round-trip transportation from Nagano Station to Togakushi Shrine areas
- 🗣️ English-speaking local guide
- 🏯 Entry to main Togakushi Shrines (Chusha and Okusha)
- 🌲 Guided hiking through scenic trails
- 🍜 Togakushi soba noodle lunch
- 📸 Photography assistance
- 🛕 Optional visit to Zenkoji Temple
- 🥷 Optional visit to the Ninja Museum (entrance not included)
❌ What’s Not Included
- Snacks, drinks, or souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Transport costs outside of tour scope
- Ninja Museum entrance fee
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
🔎 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
- Visit the Okusha Shrine area via the famous cedar-lined path. In winter, while the shrine itself is inaccessible due to snow, the ancient cedars blanketed in snow create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.
- Learn the myth of Amaterasu and the cultural significance of Togakushi’s sacred sites.
- Savor a bowl of Togakushi soba noodles at a renowned local restaurant in the Chusha area.
- Optional: 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 sharing insights into mythology, history, and culture
- Shrine Visits: Explore Chusha Shrine and approach the Okusha Shrine area
- Nature Walk: Walk along the scenic cedar-lined path (Okusha inner shrine is inaccessible in winter)
- Lunch: Enjoy handmade Togakushi soba at a beloved local restaurant
- Photography Assistance: Let your guide help capture memorable moments
- Zenkoji Temple Visit: Optional visit to Nagano’s historic Zenkoji Temple
- Optional Ninja Museum Visit: Visit the Togakure Ninpo Museum (closed during winter; entrance not included)
❌ 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 the tour scope (e.g., getting to Nagano Station)
- Ninja Museum Entrance Fee: Admission 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
🕒 Duration: Approx. 6 hours
Itinerary:
8:45 AM – 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 – Kagamiike (Mirror Pond)
- Take in the mountain reflections and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
9:50 AM – Tenmei Inari Shrine
- Photograph its red torii gates and enjoy the tranquil setting.
- Continue to the Okusha trail entrance.
10:20 AM – Cedar-Lined Path to Okusha
- Walk the 2km trail lined with 400-year-old cedar trees, passing through Zuishinmon Gate.
10:50 AM – Okusha & Kuzuryusha Shrines
- Visit the inner shrine dedicated to strength and the nearby dragon deity shrine.
11:20 AM – Optional Ninja Museum Visit
- Learn about Togakure-ryu ninjutsu, tools, and history.
- Note: Entry fee not included. Estimated time: 40 minutes.
12:10 PM – Lunch at Chusha Area
- Enjoy Togakushi soba noodles at a local eatery.
12:50 PM – Chusha Shrine
- Visit the central shrine, known for its serene setting and cedar approach.
1:10 PM – Hokosha Shrine
- Final shrine visit with panoramic stairs and peaceful grounds.
1:50 PM – Depart Togakushi
- Return journey begins. Option to stop at Zenkoji Temple.
2:45 PM – Return to Nagano Station or Zenkoji Visit
- Self-guided visit to Zenkoji (if selected), followed by drop-off at Nagano Station.
Tour Ending Time:
- Expected finish by 2:45 PM, with flexibility based on group pace and Zenkoji stop.
🕒 Duration: Approx. 4 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 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
¥19,800 / person (10+)
✅ Free cancellation until 24h (local time)*
* A small processing fee may apply.
Half-Day Tour Price
¥18,500 / person (10+)
✅ Free cancellation until 24h (local time)*
* A small processing fee may apply.
📝 Tour Info
🕒 Start time: 08:45 am
⏳ Duration:
・Full Day: ~6 hours
・Half Day: ~4 hours
👥 Group size: 2–12 guests
💴 Price:
・Full Day: ¥19,800 (Ages 10+), ¥14,800 (ages 3–9)
・Half Day: ¥18,500 (Ages 10+), ¥13,500 (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)
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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