My love for Japan began the moment I arrived in Tokyo. The country amazed me with its harmony of ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking nature, and a culture unlike any other. Since then, Japan has become a part of my life, and I return there again and again. Today I help travelers discover the real Japan: I create personalized itineraries, give lectures, and prepare guests for their unforgettable journey. I would be delighted to open Japan for you too!
Upper Togakushi Shrine and Forest
The Kamitogakushi Shrine (Okusha) in Nagano Prefecture and the surrounding forests offer a calm and spiritual escape to the heart of nature. Known for its towering cedar trees, quiet trails, and deep-rooted Shinto traditions, this destination is a must-see for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Here is a comprehensive guide to plan your visit.
Highlights of Kamitogakushi Shrine and the Forest
Cedar Avenue
On the approach to Togakushi Shrine, there are more than 400 cedar trees that are over 300 years old. Walking this 2-kilometer path feels like stepping into a mysterious realm, surrounded by the whispering of ancient trees.
Zuishin-mon Gate
This thatched-roof gate marks the entrance to the sacred forest. Passing through it symbolizes leaving the worldly world behind and entering a spiritual refuge.
The Shrine Itself
The shrine is a modest building on the steep mountainside of Mt. Togakushi, dedicated to the deity Amaterasu Karao-no-mikoto, who abandoned the stone door of the cave and brought back light to the world. The shrine is small, but its spiritual significance and quiet environment make it awe-inspiring.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryNearby Attractions
Kagami-ike Pond
This calm pond reflects the surrounding mountains and forests, creating a picturesque landscape. The road to the pond offers an alternative route to the shrine.
Togakushi Ninpo-kan
Learn about the Togakushi School, one of Japan‘s historic ninja schools. Located near the entrance to the upper shrine, this museum adds a cultural and historical dimension to your visit.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
Kids Ninja Village
Located near Nakasha, this attraction is perfect for families and offers kids fun activities with a ninja theme.
Local Cuisine
Try the specialty soba of the Togakushi area. Buckwheat-flavored ice cream, sold in local shops, is a unique treat worth tasting.
Tips for Visitors
When to Visit
- Spring: Mild weather and blooming flora.
- Autumn: Bright leaves turn the forest into a palette of red and gold.
- Winter: Snow-covered wonderland; snowshoes are recommended for navigating icy roads.
- Summer: Cool mountain air provides respite from the humid cities of Japan.
What to Wear
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, especially in winter.
- Dress in layers to adapt to changes in mountain temperature.
What to Bring
- A walking stick for navigating steep or slippery sections.
- Water and snacks, as cafes near the shrine may have limited opening hours.
- A camera to capture stunning natural landscapes.
Accessibility
The path to the upper shrine is moderately challenging, with uneven, sometimes steep rock stairs near the edges. It takes about 40 minutes one way from Zuishin-mon Gate.
Recommended Itineraries
Half-Day Visit
- Take a bus or drive to the entrance of the upper shrine.
- Walk along the cedar-lined road to Zuishin-mon Gate.
- Visit the upper shrine and enjoy the tranquility.
- Stop by Kagami-ike Pond for a quiet conclusion.
Full-Day Adventure
- Start at the lower shrine (Hokosha) and work your way through the middle shrine (Chusha).
- Enjoy local soba cuisine at a restaurant in a small town near Chusha.
- End the day at the upper shrine and Kagami-ike Pond.
Safety Tips
- Pay attention to slippery roads, especially after winter or rain.
- Stay on marked trails to avoid potential encounters with wildlife.
- If hiking alone, carry a bell.
How to Get to Togakushi Shrine and Forest
By Bus
From Nagano Station, take the Alpico Bus (Route 70) towards Togakushi. It takes about 70 minutes to get to the Togakushi Okushaguchi bus stop, which is the starting point of the Kamisha Trail, and costs 1,550 yen one way. Consider the Zenkoji-Togakushi 1-day ticket (3,000 yen) for unlimited bus rides between Nagano and Togakushi and discounts at select shops.
By Car
If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is a great option. If visiting during snowy months, ensure the car is equipped with winter tires. There is a parking lot near Zuishin-mon Gate, which is the entrance of the approach.
Business Hours: Open at all times
Admission: Free
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
Customer Experience Manager
Service cost: from only $420. (Special price for short itineraries up to 5 days). Clients tell us the itinerary saves them costly mistakes, fines, wrong choices – plus exclusive discounts on car rentals, better-priced accommodations, and money-saving local tips.
Latest articles
Kaprun Dam (Hochgebirgsstauseen)
Kaprun Dam (Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen) is a high-altitude reservoir complex set […]
