The most important of the five shrines making-up the Togakushi Shrine complex, the ‘Okusha’ or ‘Upper Shrine’ is accessed via a 2km trail through the forest. Along the way, visitors pass through the Zuishimon Gate and grand cedar avenue – one of Nagano’s most iconic destinations and certainly one of Japan’s most important Shinto landscapes.

— Where is Togakushi?

— How to Enjoy the ‘Okusha’

— Join a Tour or Charter to Togakushi

Togakushi is a spiritual destination for a reason – its beautiful and undisturbed natural scenery will bring a stirring of imagination to anyone’s soul. Keep reading below to learn how you can best enjoy the Upper Shrine.

WHERE IS TOGAKUSHI?

Located only around 20-30 kilometers to the north of Nagano City, Togakushi is one of the best spots to see amazing nature without traveling too far. Part of the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park, there are a number of mountains, hiking trails, historical sites, and ski fields in the area, offering something for ever traveler. Access is easiest done by car, but public buses also run frequently allowing for visits by public transport. Alternatively, taking a tour to the area is a good way to take the hassle out of trying to catch the right public bus. Regardless of how you get there, once there you will find an expansive mountainous region which stretches towards the Sea of Japan and Niigata in the north.

HOW TO ENJOY THE ‘OKUSHA’

Japan’s native religion of Shintoism places greater importance on nature worship with features including mountains, waterfalls and specific trees and stones regarded as imbued with divinity. Indeed, the Shinto belief is that all things are ‘kami’ or divine, and we must care for the spirit of all things in order to the natural order and balance to be maintained.

Exploring the deep history and beliefs of Shintoism is a journey into the heart of Japan itself, and there is no better place to do so than at Togakushi. Considered sacred for at least 2000 years, exploring the Okusha in combination with nearby shrines can be enjoyed any time of year, with autumn being an especially good time to head there given the astounding colors of the forest each October and November, while winter brings heavy snow.

JOIN A TOUR OR CHARTER TO TOGAKUSHI

Based in Central Japan and operating in July, August, September, October and November, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Togakushi that is sure to please! All tours are led by locally-based guides and combine a visit to several places-of-interest in Togakushi, including a hands-on soba noodle crafting experience, ninja village trick house, and a visit to an ancient Shinto shrine hidden within the avenue of giant cedars! Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.

1 Day Tour

1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
Period	July to November
Time	09:35 – 17:20
Meeting Place	Nagano Station Information Board
Adult Rate	¥19,800
Child Rate	¥11,000

Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Togakushi area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going. 

We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more! Got a question about visiting Togakushi or the general Nagano area? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below to contact us and let’s get planning together!