⛩️ Togakushi Shrine

The Togakushi Shrine is associated with the Amano Iwato myth, and since the Heian period in Japan, it has been revered as a place of mountain worship and practice. It is an ancient shrine with a history of over 2000 years, consisting of five shrines: Hokosha at the foot of the mountain, and the Fire God Shrine, Nakasha, Okusha, and Kuzuryu Shrine (Note: The Amano Iwato myth is an ancient story about the goddess Amaterasu and a rock cave). The entire Togakushi Mountain is regarded as a sacred site. In addition to the various shrines, the cedar tree-lined path to Okusha and the Kagami Pond are also worth a visit. This energy spot, filled with a mysterious atmosphere, attracts many pilgrims each year. Among the five shrines, the most famous is "Togakushi Shrine Nakasha." The torii gate in front of Nakasha is arranged in a perfect triangular shape, featuring three cedar trees over 800 years old, and the "Dragon Ceiling Painting" on the ceiling of the main hall, said to bestow super energy, is also a must-see. A 40-minute walk from the entrance of the Okusha pilgrimage path leads to the main shrine of Togakushi, "Okusha." Along the pilgrimage path, there is a cedar tree-lined avenue planted in the early Edo period (around 1603), stretching approximately 500 meters, which has been designated as a historic site and natural monument of Nagano Prefecture. The majestic appearance of the sacred old cedars is very solemn. Continuing about 40 minutes further from Okusha, you will also see the "Kagami Pond," which reflects the Togakushi Mountain range, with its water surface like a mirror. Togakushi Shrine is filled with the energy of nature and is a well-known energy spot representing Nagano Prefecture.

The ancient shrine, with a history of over 2000 years, is revered as a place of practice for mountain worship to this day. It consists of five shrines: Hōkōsha, Hi no Mikokushi, Nakasha, Okusha, and Kuzuryūsha. Within the grounds of Nakasha, the three-hundred-year-old cedar trees and the "Dragon Ceiling Painting" in the main shrine are definitely worth seeing. On the approach to Okusha, there is a cedar tree-lined path that stretches approximately 500 meters, which has been designated as a historic site and natural monument of Nagano Prefecture.