Togakushi Shrine (戸隠神社) is a Shinto shrine complex located within the Togakushi mountain range in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, rich history, and spiritual significance.
Togakushi Shrine consists of five individual shrines: Okusha, Chusha, Kuzuryusha, Hokosha, and Hinomikosha. Each shrine has its own unique history and significance, and together they form one of the most important religious sites in Japan.
The shrine is said to have been founded over 2,000 years ago and is dedicated to several deities, including Amenotejikarao-no-mikoto, the god of strength who played a key role in the Japanese myth of Amaterasu emerging from the cave. Togakushi Shrine has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and remains a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment or a connection to nature.
One of the most iconic features of Togakushi Shrine is the long, tree-lined path leading up to the Okusha shrine. This path is lined with over 300 ancient cedar trees, some over 400 years old. It is considered one of the most beautiful and peaceful walks in Japan, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.
Togakushi Shrine is also known for its unique soba noodles, called Togakushi soba, made from locally-grown buckwheat flour. Legend has it that these noodles were brought in and cultivated by practitioners of Shugendo. Togakushi soba is a must-try for anyone visiting the shrine or the surrounding area.
Getting there
By Bus from Nagano Station
- Take bus number 70 or 71 from bus stop 7 at Nagano Station
- Journey time: About 60-70 minutes
- Cost: 1,250-1,550 yen one way, depending on the shrine you’re visiting
- Frequency: Approximately one bus per hour
Get off at:
- Togakushi-Hokosha for the lower shrine (55 minutes)
- Togakushi-Chusha for the middle shrine (65 minutes)
- Togakushi-Okushairiguchi for the upper shrine (70 minutes)
By Car
- About 60 minutes drive from Nagano city
- Parking available near each shrine
Details
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 26-254-2001 |
| Address | Chūsha-3506 Togakushi, Nagano, 381-4101 |