Togakushi: A Serene Walk Through Sacred Forests & Soba Traditions

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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.＊＊

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.＊＊

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.＊＊

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.

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.＊＊

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

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.

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.

Zenkoji Temple Option: Visit this historic Buddhist site with a convenient pickup 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.