Saigawa River Promenade
Journey through a mystical 2km cedar avenue to the serene Togakushi Shrine in Nagano, a place of ancient myths and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Saigawa River Promenade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Journey through a mystical 2km cedar avenue to the serene Togakushi Shrine in Nagano, a place of ancient myths and natural beauty.
"Walk through a sacred forest steeped in myth, nature, and spiritual energy."
🚌 Bus Tickets
Buy bus tickets at Alpico across from Nagano Station. Reserve your return trip to avoid issues.
👟 Winter Footwear
Essential for winter! Bring snow boots or anti-slip cleats to prevent falls on icy paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Cedar Avenue
Path to Okusha (Main Shrine)
Walk through a mystical 2km path lined with ancient cedar trees, some over 400 years old. A truly spiritual experience.
Okusha (Main Shrine)
End of the cedar avenue
Discover the serene Okusha, the main shrine, nestled deep within the sacred forest. Feel the spiritual energy of this ancient site.
Mirror Pond (Kagamiike)
Near Chusha (Middle Shrine)
Capture stunning reflections of the surrounding nature, especially beautiful during autumn. A peaceful spot for contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Togakushi Visit
Winter Travel Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚌 Bus Tickets
Buy bus tickets at Alpico across from Nagano Station. Reserve your return trip to avoid issues.
👟 Winter Footwear
Essential for winter! Bring snow boots or anti-slip cleats to prevent falls on icy paths. +1
🧥 Dress Warmly
Winter is very cold. Ensure you have enough layers, gloves, and warm clothing to stay comfortable.
🚶♀️ Trail Caution
Be mindful of waterways and snow depth. Stick to marked paths, especially in winter, and avoid venturing off-trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Bus Tickets
Buy bus tickets at Alpico across from Nagano Station. Reserve your return trip to avoid issues.
👟 Winter Footwear
Essential for winter! Bring snow boots or anti-slip cleats to prevent falls on icy paths. +1
🧥 Dress Warmly
Winter is very cold. Ensure you have enough layers, gloves, and warm clothing to stay comfortable.
🚶♀️ Trail Caution
Be mindful of waterways and snow depth. Stick to marked paths, especially in winter, and avoid venturing off-trail.
📸 Photo Tips
Hands can freeze quickly while taking photos in winter. Be prepared for the cold when capturing the scenery.
🌲 Spiritual Atmosphere
Many visitors report feeling a special, powerful energy at Togakushi Shrine. Embrace the serene atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Togakushi Shrine, particularly the ancient cedar avenue and the serene atmosphere. The Mirror Pond is a highlight for its stunning reflections. However, winter visits require significant preparation for cold and slippery conditions, and some trails can be challenging.
"Must see when you come to Nagano. The bus from Nagano Station took about an hour and the trail from the Lower Shrine to the cedar trees was quite tough during heavy snowfall in mid Feb, took approximately about 1 hour, we didn’t even make it to the Upper Shrine but the cedar trees were absolutely gorgeous."
Khanh Phuong Pham
"Absolutely beautiful. A gentle walk up the promenade and a hike up to the shrine. Very worth it if staying in Nagano. Buy bus tickets at Alpico across from the bus station - reserved times up and back."
Brock Lumsden
"I just hiked this trail in winter. I did the regular route to the Cedar trees and that was easy and nice. Then, I wanted to go to a pond and there was a sign saying go there only if you have winter gear. I was wearing crampons so I thought it would be ok and it was until the pond. The pond was frozen and I was falling deep in the snow, I panicked and took the longest route to the first shrine instead of the one to Chusha and it was a big mistake. Fortunately, I finished the hike without any issues only a bit tired and cold. So yeah, don’t be crazy like me!"
Cecilia Arenas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Togakushi Shrine is by taking the Alpico bus from Nagano Station. The journey takes approximately one hour. It's recommended to purchase your bus tickets in advance at the Alpico counter across from the station and reserve your return times to ensure a smooth trip.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available. However, be prepared for winter road conditions if you visit during snowy months.
Togakushi Shrine is comprised of three main areas: the Lower Shrine (Tsunomiya), Middle Shrine (Chusha), and Upper Shrine (Okusha). Many visitors start at the Lower Shrine and hike through the cedar avenue to Okusha. +1
The bus ride from Nagano Station to Togakushi Shrine takes about an hour. Factor in additional time for exploring the different shrine areas.
While buses connect Nagano Station to the Togakushi area, local shuttle services within the shrine complex are not widely advertised. Walking is the primary mode of transport between the shrine sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Togakushi Shrine complex itself is generally free to enter. Parking may have a fee if you are arriving by car.
Shrine grounds are typically accessible throughout the day, but specific building hours may vary. It's best to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for any specific timings.
For general entry to the shrine, advance booking is not usually required. However, it's advisable to book bus tickets to and from Nagano Station in advance, especially during peak travel times.
While not explicitly mentioned in social media, local tourist information centers in Nagano might offer guided tours or information on local guides.
Yes, Togakushi Shrine is open year-round. However, winter visits require significant preparation for snow and cold conditions. +1
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike to Okusha involves walking through a beautiful 2km avenue of ancient cedar trees. It can be challenging, especially in winter with snow, and takes about an hour.
For winter visits, warm clothing, waterproof snow boots, and anti-slip cleats are highly recommended to navigate the snowy and icy trails safely. +1
The main cedar avenue to Okusha can be a bit strenuous, especially in winter. The areas around Chusha (Middle Shrine) are more accessible. Consider the age and mobility of children when planning your visit.
Many visitors describe feeling a powerful, spiritual energy at Togakushi Shrine, surrounded by ancient trees and a serene mountain atmosphere.
Restroom facilities are generally available at the main shrine areas. It's advisable to carry water and snacks, especially if planning a longer hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The cedar avenue leading to Okusha is iconic. The Mirror Pond (Kagamiike) offers beautiful reflections, especially in autumn. The Great Torii Gate at Okusha is also a popular subject. +1
Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the shrine and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside any buildings.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. The Mirror Pond is particularly stunning when the water is calm and reflects the surroundings.
In winter, the cold can be a challenge for photographers, with hands freezing quickly. Be prepared with warm gear and consider a tripod for stable shots in low light.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites and national parks. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more accessible areas like Chusha (Middle Shrine) and the Mirror Pond (Kagamiike), which are easier to navigate and offer beautiful scenery. Ensure children are dressed warmly and have appropriate footwear, particularly if visiting during colder months. The sense of wonder from walking among ancient trees can be captivating for all ages.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Winter hikers should be well-prepared with appropriate winter gear, including snow boots and traction devices, as trails can be slippery and snow-covered.
📸 Photographers
For the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon. Winter photography can be challenging due to the extreme cold, so be prepared with warm gloves and consider a tripod for stable shots. Capturing the serene atmosphere and the interplay of light and shadow among the ancient trees is a rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Togakushi Shrine
The journey to the Upper Shrine (Okusha) is particularly famous for its sacred cedar avenue. This approximately 2km path is lined with towering cedar trees, some estimated to be over 400 years old. Walking this path is often described as a deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring experience, with many visitors feeling a profound sense of peace and connection to nature.
Beyond the cedar avenue, the shrine complex includes the Middle Shrine (Chusha) and the Lower Shrine (Tsunomiya). Each offers a unique atmosphere and historical significance. The Mirror Pond (Kagamiike), located near Chusha, is renowned for its beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains and trees, especially during the autumn foliage season.
Navigating Togakushi in Winter
Essential gear for a winter visit includes waterproof snow boots and anti-slip cleats or crampons to ensure safe footing. Dressing in multiple warm layers, including gloves and a hat, is crucial to combat the biting cold. Many visitors have noted how quickly hands can freeze when trying to take photos.
While the main cedar avenue is manageable with proper gear, venturing off the marked paths or towards less-maintained areas like the pond can be risky due to deep snow and hidden waterways. It's advisable to stick to the well-trodden routes and be aware of your limits, as one traveler recounted a challenging experience after venturing further than intended.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit