Togakushi Shrine
A mountain shrine complex deep in ancient cedar forests, associated with the myths of Amaterasu and the origin of Japanese theatrical arts. The 2km avenue of 400-year-old cedars leading to the upper shrine is one of Japan's most dramatic shrine approaches. Togakushi was also a historic ninja training village.
Half day
Free (museum ¥700)
Always accessible; inner shrine (Okumiya): approximately 9:00–16:00; Togakushi Ninja Museum: 9:00–17:00 (Apr–Nov)
May–October, winter snowshoe walks (December–March)
Bus from Nagano Station (60 min)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The 2km stone-path cedar avenue is flanked by trees over 400 years old — otherworldly in morning mist
- 2
Togakushi was historically the training ground of the Togakure-ryu ninja school
- 3
The Togakushi Ninja Museum has a hands-on obstacle course through a ninja house
Local Tips
The 2km cedar avenue approach to the inner shrine is one of Japan's most atmospheric forest paths — the ancient cedars arch over the stone road creating a natural cathedral. Togakushi is also Japan's ninja history capital — the Togakure-ryu school of ninjutsu originated here. The Togakushi soba (buckwheat noodles) is consistently ranked Japan's finest — queue at Uzuraya for the best. In winter the snow-covered cedar avenue is extraordinary.
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