Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour With Soba in Nagano

The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour in Nagano promises an immersive journey into Japan’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Trekking through hidden trails and ancient pilgrimage paths, you will encounter majestic cedar trees, Shinto statues, and the renowned Togakushi soba. With breathtaking views of Kagamiike Pond and the surrounding mountains, this adventure combines physical challenge with cultural enrichment. Discover why this tour has captivated visitors seeking an authentic experience beyond the typical tourist trail.

Key Points

• The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour explores the cultural and natural heritage of Nagano, including visits to three shrines and tasting of Togakushi soba.
• Participants hike hidden trails and ancient pilgrimage paths in a national park, encountering Shinto statues and towering cedar trees along the way.
• The tour includes lunch with Togakushi soba, a renowned local dish, and transportation to and from all listed destinations.
• Optional visits to Zenkoji Temple and Togakure Ninpo Museum (closed in winter) are available, with return transit to Nagano Station provided.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level due to the challenging trails at an altitude of approximately 1,100 meters, with a maximum group size of 7 participants.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour allows visitors to experience the rich cultural and natural heritage of Nagano’s Togakushi Shrine.

Participants will explore hidden trails and ancient pilgrimage paths in a national park, encountering Shinto statues and towering cedar trees along the way.

The tour includes visits to three shrines and a chance to savor Togakushi soba, one of Japan’s top soba dishes.

Travelers will also witness the serene Kagamiike Pond, surrounded by lush greenery, forest, and mountains.

This guided hiking adventure offers an immersive glimpse into the spiritual and scenic wonders of the Togakushi region.

Inclusions and Optional Activities

This tour includes a delectable lunch of Togakushi soba, one of Japan’s top soba dishes, served at a renowned local restaurant.

Transportation to and from all listed destinations is provided. Optional visits include Zenkoji Temple and the Togakure Ninpo Museum, though the museum is closed in winter.

Extra drinks and food are available for purchase. Meals for infants are included.

If opting for the Zenkoji Temple visit, return transit to Nagano Station is provided. The Ninja Museum entrance fee is included if that option is selected.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this tour is Starbucks Coffee – MIDORI Nagano, located at 1-chōme-22-6 Minamichitose, Nagano, Japan.

Visitors will meet the guide here before embarking on the Togakushi Shrine hiking adventure. At the tour’s conclusion, you will return to the same meeting point.

This central location provides easy access to transportation and allows for a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.

The tour is designed to be convenient for travelers, with the meeting and end points situated in a familiar and accessible spot in downtown Nagano.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation.

Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions should avoid this hike. A moderate fitness level is required as the trails can be challenging at an altitude of approximately 1,100 meters.

Suitable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, as temperatures may be cold even in summer months if it rains.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 7 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Adhering to these health and safety guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable Togakushi Shrine hiking tour.

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation unless the experience is within 8 days of the travel date, in which case confirmation will be provided within 48 hours.

Guests can cancel their reservation free of charge up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

Pricing for the Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour starts from $133.02 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Travellers can reserve now and pay later, allowing for flexible planning.

Based on 1 review, the tour has a 5.0 rating, indicating high satisfaction among previous participants.

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
2. Pricing from $133.02 per person with a lowest price guarantee.
3. Reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Exploring Togakushi Shrine and Its Hiking Trails

One of the highlights of the Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour is the opportunity to explore the sacred grounds and ancient pilgrimage paths of this revered Shinto shrine.

Guided by a local expert, hikers will wander through a verdant national park, encountering towering cedar trees and Shinto statues along the way.

The trail leads to three distinct shrines, each with its own unique history and architectural features.

As hikers ascend, they’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the serene Kagamiike Pond.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions.

Discovering the Culinary Delights of Togakushi Soba

A highlight of the Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour is the opportunity to savor Togakushi soba, one of Japan’s most renowned soba dishes.

This local specialty is made with buckwheat flour, offering a unique flavor and texture. Visitors can enjoy Togakushi soba at a renowned local restaurant, complementing the hiking experience.

Some key features of Togakushi soba include:

1. Handcrafted noodles with a delicate, chewy texture.
2. Served either hot or cold, allowing guests to choose their preferred temperature.
3. Accompanied by flavorful dipping sauces and seasonal vegetables, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Permitted During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during the tour. However, visitors should be mindful and respectful of other participants’ experiences and avoid disrupting the tour. Specific restrictions may apply at certain sites, which the tour guide will communicate to the group.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Yes, children can participate in the tour. The inclusion section states that a meal for infants is included, indicating that the tour is suitable for families with young children.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour accommodates meals for infants, and extra drinks and food are available for purchase. However, the website doesn’t specify if dietary restrictions can be accommodated, so travelers should inquire about that before booking.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but travelers can opt for additional activities like visiting Zenkoji Temple or the Togakure Ninpo Museum, subject to availability and weather conditions. These extras can be arranged at an additional cost.

What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?

In case of inclement weather, the tour may be modified or rescheduled. The operator will communicate updates to travelers and provide alternative arrangements if necessary to ensure their safety and comfort during the experience.

The Sum Up

The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour in Nagano offers an immersive cultural and natural experience. Participants will trek through ancient paths, encounter Shinto statues, and savor renowned Togakushi soba. With breathtaking views and a personalized small-group experience, this adventure combines physical challenge with cultural enrichment, providing a well-rounded exploration of Japan’s heritage.