Togakushi Shrine (Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Togakushi Shrine is a group of ancient shrines scattered throughout the Togakushi region of Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, consisting of five shrines (Okusha, Kuzuryusha, Nakasha, Hokosha, and Hinomikosha). According to legend, the name is derived from "Togakushi," which was discovered when the Ama-no-Iwato cave was opened by the Ame-no-Ninhoko spear in ancient times, and is also known as the birthplace of mountain worship, Shugendo, and ninjutsu (Togakushi-ryu ninjutsu).

Its distinctive features include the solemn atmosphere of the inner shrine approach surrounded by rows of cedar trees, the abundant nature and seasonal scenery, and the local food culture, including Togakushi soba. It is a place where history and nature coexist in harmony, and many people come to enjoy not only pilgrimages but also trekking, photography, and soba noodle tours.

Highlights

• Okusha Shrine and the approach lined with cedar trees: A typical view of Togakushi. Long stone steps and rows of old cedar trees line the route, each with its own charm, whether it's snow, fresh greenery, or autumn leaves. The inner shrine at the end of the approach has a tranquil atmosphere.
• Kuzuryusha Shrine: A small shrine located on the approach to the inner shrine. It is worshipped as the god of water and a shrine for matchmaking, and attracts many worshippers.
• Chusha: A shrine in the center of Togakushi. There are souvenir shops and restaurants around the approach, making it a convenient starting point for sightseeing.
• Hokosha Shrine and Hinomikosha Shrine: All of these are ancient shrines deeply rooted in the local area, each with its own history and unique festivals. We recommend taking a walk around them.
• Togakushi Ninja Village and Ninjutsu Museum: It is popular with families as it has a corner where you can learn about the history of Togakure-ryu ninjutsu and experience it.
• Nature of Togakushi Plateau: You can enjoy marshes, ranches, hiking trails, trekking in the summer, and skiing in the winter.
• Togakushi soba: Country soba is a local specialty. There are many soba restaurants, so you can enjoy comparing different varieties.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest train station: JR/Shinano Railway "Nagano Station" or Nagano Electric Railway "Nagano Station." There are no direct trains to Togakushi, so you'll need to transfer to a bus or car from here.
• Local busFrom Nagano Station (Bus Terminal/Zenkoji Exit), take a bus operated by Alpico Kotsu or other operators to Togakushi (Togakushi Chusha Shrine, Togakushi Okusha Shrine Entrance, etc.). The journey takes approximately 50 to 70 minutes. The number of buses varies depending on the weekday and season, so please check the timetable in advance.
• Private car/rental car: Approximately 40-60 minutes from central Nagano City via National Route 406 and Prefectural Road (varies depending on the season and road conditions). Parking lots for various companies (around Nakasha Shrine and Okusha Shrine, etc.) are available. However, there may be snow accumulation and chain restrictions in winter.
• taxi: It takes about 40 to 60 minutes from Nagano Station, and the fare varies depending on the distance and time, so it is cheaper for groups.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• If you want to see the main shrines (Nakasha + Okusha + Kuzuryusha) and include meals: 3 to 4 hours
• A leisurely walk back and forth along the approach to the inner shrine and visit other shrines: Half-day course (4-5 hours)
• If you want to enjoy hiking in the highlands, museums, and multiple restaurants, and if you want to include seasonal hiking: 1 day

Nearby spots

• Zenkoji Temple (Central Nagano City) - A representative ancient temple of Nagano. Many tourists visit it together with Togakushi.
• Togakushi-ryu Ninjutsu Museum (Togakushi Ninja Village) - A facility for learning about ninjutsu and experiencing it.
• Togakushi Plateau (Kagamiike Pond, Togakushi Ranch, Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden, etc.) — Nature walks and photo spots.
• Togakushi Ski Resort - Skiing and snowboarding in winter.
• Nagano City (restaurants and hot springs on the approach to Zenkoji Temple) - Convenient for lodging and dining in conjunction with sightseeing.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The shrine is especially crowded during the autumn foliage season, Golden Week, and the New Year holidays. Be aware of crowded parking lots and buses, and long lines along the approach to the shrine. Visit early in the morning or on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
• Clothes/shoes: The approach to the inner shrine has stone steps and unpaved sections, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. In winter, there may be snow and ice, so you may need to wear cold weather gear and anti-slip gear (chains or crampons).
• Weather and seasonal road conditionsIn winter, roads may be closed due to snow and winter tire restrictions may be in place. There are also mountain passes, so please drive carefully.
• Worship etiquette: Please observe general shrine etiquette, such as bowing at the torii gate and walking away from the center of the approach (to avoid the path of the gods). There may be restrictions on photography during festivals, so please follow local instructions.
• Protecting the natural environment: Please refrain from throwing trash outside of designated areas and from trampling on vegetation. Please also refrain from shouting to maintain a quiet environment.
• Food & Beverage Facilities: There are limited dining options around the inner shrine, so consider eating around the middle shrine or preparing in advance. Restrooms are available at each shrine, but they can get crowded during peak seasons.

Togakushi Shrine is a sacred space where history and nature intertwine. Please allow yourself plenty of time, wear comfortable clothing, and be sure to enjoy the local delicacies, including soba noodles.