6-Hour Zenkoji and Togakushi Private Tour with Soba and Ninja Museum

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Explore the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples
• 02 Stroll through cedar-lined pathways to the tranquil Togakushi Chusha Shrine
• 03 Savor a traditional soba lunch in Togakushi, renowned for its authentic noodles
• 04 Delve into ninja history at the fascinating Togakure Ninja Museum
• 05 Enjoy scenic views of Kagami Lake reflecting the Togakushi mountains, conditions permitting

Embark on a private half-day tour to discover the spiritual and natural beauty of Zenkoji Temple and Togakushi. Explore Zenkoji, one of Japan's oldest and most important Buddhist temples, then soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Togakushi Shrines along cedar-lined pathways. Enjoy a traditional soba lunch in Togakushi and delve into ninja history at the Togakure Ninja Museum, with the Chibikko Ninja Village offering extra fun for families. If conditions allow, you can also take in the scenic reflections of the Togakushi mountains at Kagami Lake.

Explore Zenkoji, one of Japan's oldest and most important Buddhist temples, then soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Togakushi Shrines along cedar-lined pathways.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Nagano

Languages English, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Zenkoji, Togakushi Shrines, Soba and Ninja Heritage

• Pickup from Nagano Station.
• Your driver will meet you inside Nagano Station, in front of the Information Board/video monitors, across from the Shinkansen/Bullet Train ticket gates.
• Depart for Zenkoji Temple, just 5-7 minutes by car from Nagano Station.
• Stop 1: Zenkoji Temple (5-7 minutes from Nagano Station)
• Zenkoji Temple is one of Japan's oldest and most important Buddhist temples. Explore the main hall and walk through the underground passage, where the hidden Buddha statue is kept. Stroll along the temple street, lined with traditional shops and local treats, and learn about the history and significance of Zenkoji from your driver.
• Stop 2: Togakushi Shrines (40 minutes from Zenkoji Temple)
• Visit the Zuishinmon Gate and walk through the ancient cedar-lined pathway leading to Togakushi Chusha Shrine. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the sacred forest. Please note that, due to time constraints, you may not reach the upper shrine (Okusha).
• Stop 3: Soba Lunch in Togakushi
• After visiting Togakushi Chusha Shrine, head to a local restaurant for a relaxing soba lunch. Savor authentic Togakushi soba noodles, one of Japan's most famous regional dishes.
• Stop 4: Togakure Ninja Museum & Chibikko Ninja Village (for families, 15-minute drive from Togakushi)
• Explore the Togakure Ninja Museum and learn about the legendary Togakure Ninja Clan. Families with children can enjoy fun, interactive activities at the Chibikko Ninja Village.
• Stop 5: Kagami Lake (seasonal, 10-minute drive from Togakushi)
• If the weather is warm and the roads are open, enjoy the stunning views of Kagami Lake, where the Togakushi mountains are reflected in the water.
• Return to Nagano Station.
• After your tour, relax in your comfortable taxi on the way back to Nagano Station or your hotel.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Transportation within Nagano City
• Bilingual licensed taxi driver
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• Parking fee

What's Not Included

• Lunch
• Snacks
• Entrance/Admission Fee

What to bring

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some paths are uneven.
• In winter, expect snow-covered trails and dress warmly.

Know before you go

• Pickup location: The tour begins at Nagano Station. Your driver will meet you in front of the Information Board/video monitors, across from the Shinkansen/Bullet Train ticket gates.
• Tour duration: This is a 3-hour private tour, including travel time to and from Togakushi. Please be prepared for a scenic 40-minute drive each way.
• Comfortable footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some of the paths may be uneven. In winter, snow-covered trails may require extra caution, so dress warmly.
• Weather conditions: The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather or road conditions, especially in winter. Please check the forecast before the tour and dress accordingly.
• Lunch: Lunch is not included in the tour price, but you'll enjoy an authentic Togakushi soba experience at a local restaurant. Please inform your driver of any dietary restrictions ahead of time.
• Optional stops: If you would like to visit Zenkoji Temple at the end of your tour, please let your driver know. Please note that transportation back to Nagano Station is not included in this option.
• Tour duration: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.
• Customizations available: Feel free to let me know if you'd like to adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Nagano Station, in front of the Information Board/video monitors, across from the Shinkansen/Bullet Train ticket gates, Nagano, Japan

Tour start

3506 Togakushi, Nagano, 381-4101, Japan

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.