Nestled in the heart of Nagano, the Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour offers an immersive cultural experience for adventurous travelers. This full-day excursion unveils a captivating tapestry of sacred shrines, scenic hiking trails, and a delectable traditional soba lunch. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour promises breathtaking vistas and insights into Japan’s rich history. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a culture aficionado, this tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Key Points
- An immersive tour exploring the Togakushi Shrine complex, hiking trails, and culminating in a traditional soba lunch in Nagano.
- Guided by an English-speaking guide, with visits to key shrines, ponds, and trails, priced from $144.74 per person.
- Offers a full-day experience with in-depth exploration of the shrines and hiking trails, as well as a half-day option.
- Includes transportation, with optional visits to Zenkoji Temple and Togakure Ninpo Museum available.
- Requires appropriate clothing and footwear due to high-altitude conditions, and is not suitable for certain groups.
Tour Overview
The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour with Soba provides visitors with an immersive experience exploring the picturesque Togakushi Shrine complex and its scenic hiking trails.
Priced from $144.74 per person, the tour lasts 4-6 hours and is limited to 7 participants. An English-speaking guide leads the group, offering flexibility with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour visits key shrines, ponds, and trails, culminating in a traditional soba lunch. Guests can also optionally visit Zenkoji Temple and the Togakure Ninpo Museum.
Transportation to/from the listed destinations is included, though optional visits require separate arrangements.
Looking for more options in Chubu Region? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at the Starbucks located at Midori Nagano Station, where participants meet their English-speaking guide.
The group first visits Togakushi Shrine Okusha, the main shrine, followed by Togakushi Chusha, the middle shrine.
Next, they explore Hokosha Shrine and the scenic Kagamiike Pond.
The tour then takes them to the hidden Tenmei Inari Shrine.
Participants enjoy a traditional Togakushi soba lunch, a local specialty made from buckwheat.
For the half-day option, the tour focuses on the key highlights, offering a shorter yet scenic experience, especially suitable for winter visits.
Full-Day Tour Experience
Participants on the full-day tour can expect an in-depth exploration of the Togakushi shrine complex and surrounding trails. The experience includes:
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Visiting the Togakushi Okusha (Main Shrine), Chusha (Middle Shrine), and Hokosha Shrine to learn about the site’s history and spiritual significance.
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Trekking along scenic hiking trails that wind through the forested mountains, offering panoramic views of the Kagamiike Pond.
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Discovering the hidden Tenmei Inari Shrine, a lesser-known gem that provides a quieter, more contemplative setting.
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Indulging in a traditional Togakushi soba lunch, a regional specialty made from locally-sourced buckwheat.
Half-Day Tour Experience
For those seeking a more condensed experience, the half-day tour focuses on the key highlights of the Togakushi shrine complex and surrounding trails.
This option is ideal for winter, showcasing the scenic snowy landscapes. Guests will explore the Okusha (Main Shrine), Chusha (Middle Shrine), and Hokosha Shrine, as well as Kagamiike Pond and the hidden Tenmei Inari Shrine.
The tour includes a traditional soba lunch, a local specialty made from buckwheat. Transportation to and from the listed destinations is provided, though guests must arrange their own travel for any optional visits.
This shorter tour is a great choice for those with limited time.
More Great Tours NearbyOptional Visits
Guests can opt to visit additional sites, including the historic Zenkoji Temple in Nagano and the Togakure Ninpo Museum, which explores the region’s ninja heritage.
However, the Togakure Ninpo Museum is closed during the winter months.
The optional visits:
- Zenkoji Temple: An important historic Buddhist site in Nagano.
- Togakure Ninpo Museum: Learn about the Togakushi region’s ninja heritage (closed in winter).
- Offer the opportunity to further immerse in local culture and history.
- Aren’t included in the tour price and require separate transportation arrangements after the main tour.
Transportation
The tour package includes transportation to and from the listed destinations along the hiking trails. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation after any optional visits.
| Starting Point | Stops Included | Drop-off Point | Transportation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starbucks Midori Nagano Station | Togakushi Shrine, Kagamiike Pond | Starbucks Midori Nagano Station | Private shuttle |
The shuttle service is included in the tour price and provides a comfortable and convenient way to navigate the hiking trails and shrines. Guests should be ready at the designated meeting point for pickup and drop-off.
Important Information
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended for this tour. The high-altitude (1,100m) and potential rain, even in summer, require appropriate dressing.
Plus, this tour isn’t suitable for:
- Children under 5
- Individuals with mobility impairments or heart problems
- Wheelchair users
Guests are prohibited from bringing baby strollers, smoking, littering, or touching plants.
Careful attention to weather conditions and preparation are essential for an enjoyable Togakushi Shrine hiking experience.
Booking Details
To book the Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour, guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The tour is limited to 7 participants and is offered in English. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
The full-day tour costs $144.74 per person and lasts 4-6 hours, including a traditional soba lunch.
For those short on time, a half-day option focuses on the key highlights, making it ideal for winter visits.
Transportation to and from the listed destinations is included, though guests must arrange their own transportation after any optional visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Hiking Trails?
The hiking trails require a moderate level of fitness. Guests should be able to walk for several hours on uneven terrain with some elevation changes. Reasonable physical conditioning is recommended to fully enjoy the tour.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Hiking Routes?
There are restroom facilities available at key stops along the hiking routes, such as the shrines and visitor centers. Guests can use these facilities during the tour to ensure their comfort and convenience.
Can I Bring My Small Dog on the Tour?
Unfortunately, small dogs are not permitted on the tour. The tour is focused on hiking trails and visiting shrines, which may not be suitable for pets. Guests are advised to leave their dogs at home for this experience.
Is the Soba Lunch Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly?
The soba lunch served during the tour may not be vegetarian or vegan-friendly. The traditional Togakushi soba is made from buckwheat, but it’s unclear if any additional ingredients or preparation methods would accommodate special dietary needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. The full-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of the shrines, trails, and Kagamiike Pond, while the half-day tour focuses on the key highlights for a shorter experience.
The Sum Up
The Togakushi Shrine Hiking Trails Tour in Nagano offers an unforgettable cultural and natural experience. Visitors can explore sacred shrines, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a traditional soba lunch, all while gaining insights from an English-speaking guide. Whether you choose the full-day or half-day option, this tour promises breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich history and traditions.
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