Togakushi-Jinja — Attraction in Nagano

Direct bus from Nagano Station, numbers 70 and 73 will get you there. Then it's a hike up to the shrines and the giant Cedar tree forest pathway. The hike was done in snow today, and while most of it is relatively flat, parts are quite icy and slippery. Despite this, it was definitely worth the effort. Majestic and awe-inspiring are two phrases i have to use to describe the experience. Wonderful photo opportunities. Walking back from the giant cedar trees, there is a lovely Soba restaurant, and the meals really warmed the body on a snowy day. Wear appropriate warm clothes, however you can hire boots at the tourist information centre where the bus drops you off. Great cafe around the corner of the ingo center called Lamp Cafe, run by a fantastic old fellow who makes fantastic coffee and has a wide range of snacks. The loop bus leaves from opposite the Nagano Station at bus stop 7. You can buy the round ticket at the bus stop. Well worth the effort going to the shrines and cedar...

If you never have experience powder snow like me and need a breather this is the perfect place for some great view and experience. I got the day bus ticket at Nagano Station and join the Q at bustop 7. Take note this is a popular stop hence check the timing online before hand and come early as the bus is a no standing bus, you can’t board if it’s full and interval is about an hour. The hike to upper shrine is no easy feat not recommended for elderly and child. It is slippery even with hiking shoes and I slip thrice including a hard fall on wet surface. No physical bustop as well just a signage at the road so use google map for guide. The upper shrine can’t be access as well as it’s covered...

It takes around an hour to walk the pathway. It begins as a lush, green, gentle uphill forest walk. You get to the half way point and there is a stunning fern covered gateway. The trees are amazing. Then it starts to crank up the incline. The last 15 - 20 minutes are hard work, really steep, uneven steps and you get to test your cardio. If the sound of climbing something like 10 to 20 flights of stairs is daunting, this isn't for you. I didn't see any fat people attempt it. I did see a lot of elderly Japanese people tackling it, but they aren't fat westerners. The temple isn't anything special, it's nice though. Then you get to turn around and go down. I hope your knees are in...