Hidden gems in Japan, Walking Guide to Togakushi Okusha Shrine – Discover Nagano’s Famous Cedar Avenue!

Hidden gems in Japan, Walking Guide to Togakushi Okusha Shrine – Discover Nagano’s Famous Cedar Avenue!

Hi I’m Nobu, I like traveling overseas and in Japan, visited 28 countries!

I’m a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of English for 12 years.

For the people who are interested in and planning trip to Japan ,
I show you hidden local information which you have never seen and heard of through books and ordinary site!

You will find unexpected fun through my articles!

Introduction – Why Visit Togakushi Okusha Shrine?

•It’s a Hidden mountain shrine in Nagano

•Famous for the 400-year-old cedar approach

•A spiritual and scenic walking route

Related link: Nagano’s famous temple Zenkoji temple.

How to Start – From Okusha Parking Lot

• This is the nearest car parking to the shrine.

•There are small food stalls

• Recommended walking shoes and water

• Time required (30–40 minutes one way)

Related link: Don’t miss trying Togakushi soba noodles, one of the most famous local foods in Japan.

The First Stage – A Peaceful Forest Path

• It’s a wide gravel path through the woods

• Passing the Zuijinmon Gate

• Gentle atmosphere before the main highlight

Zuijinmon Gate

•This is the entrance to the sacred area, protected by guardians of the gate.

The roof is covered by moss and plants.

The Cedar Avenue – 1 Kilometer of Ancient Giants

• About 300 towering cedar trees

• Over 30 m tall, 400 years old

• “Natural cathedral” feeling

•You hear stream right side of the path.

• One of the most photogenic spots in Nagano

Related link: Another photogenic nature spots? Kamikochi in the Japanese Alps.

The Final Approach – Climbing to the Shrine

• Steeper path with stone steps

• Short but challenging uphill section

• Especially beautiful (and slippery) in winter

Reaching the Destination – Togakushi Okusha Shrine

• Shrine dedicated to the god of strength and victory

• Deeply spiritual atmosphere in the forest

• Perfect spot for reflection and photos

Related link: Interested in Japanese shrines? Read our guide to Meiji Shrine in Tokyo.

Practical Travel Tips

• Walking time (40 min up, 30 min down)

• Best seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter )

• Facilities (restrooms, food stalls near parking only)

• Accessibility notes (not suitable for strollers/wheelchairs)

Related link: For seasonal travel advice, see our monthly Japan guides: Best time to visit Japan.

Conclusion – A Spiritual Journey Through Nature

Kagami Ike pond in Togakushi shrine

• More than a hike, it’s a pilgrimage

• Combines history, spirituality, and stunning scenery

• A hidden gem in Nagano worth visiting

How was it?

Why don’t you try next chance?

I’m Nobu , one heart enjoy together!!

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