Full Day Togakushi Nature Hike and Ninja Tour

The tour starts with a hike through a beautiful forest and past several lakes. Discover various types of wild plants and flowers as you walk along the hiking trail to Kagami-ike Lake with its stunning view of Mt. Togakushi. On days with no wind, you can see Mt. Togakushi reflected on the water's surface. You will also pass by a panoramic spot where you can enjoy a view of the Japanese Alps.

After a 2 hour hike, it is time for a lunch of Soba, or buckwheat noodles in English. It is a traditional dish for people in Nagano, and Togakushi especially is known for the distinctive taste of their soba made with region's clean mountain water. The dish comes with shrimp and seasonal vegetables tempura.

After lunch, take the bus to the entrance of pilgrimage path to the Togakushi Okusha Shrine. While the entire Togakushi area is regarded as sacred to followers of Shintoism, Togakushi Okusha Shrine is the most important place within the region and the very end of the regional pilgrimage. Approximately 300 Cryptomeria trees are lined beautifully along the pilgrimage path. It is more than impressive enough to make visitors ponder the sacredness of Japanese Shintoism.

After walking back from the Okusha Shrine, it is time for some recreation and learning at the Ninja Folklore Museum. At the museum, you will not only learn about the history and techniques used by the Togakushi ninja, you can also give escaping a ninja house filled with hidden doors and tricks a go. 


Tour itinerary:

9am
Meet at Nagano station directly in front of the Shinkansen exit at the information board towards the East Exit.
 - Take the bus towards Togakushi.
 - Start the hike through the forest trail with several ponds and mountain views.

12:45pm
Eat lunch at a local soba restaurant
 - Take the bus to Togakushi Shrine and walk past the Japanese cedars.
 - Go to the Ninja House that also holds a Ninja Folklore Museum.

5pm
Go back by bus to Nagano Station.

6:30pm
Arrive back at Nagano Station.