1-Day Togakushi: Soba Making, Ninja Town and Hidden Shrines

Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Togakushi on this captivating 1-day tour. You’ll start by crafting local soba noodles using the region’s pure natural water, then explore the mysterious "Ninja House" with its secret passageways and deceptive traps. After connecting with the spiritual essence of the historic Togakushi-Jinja Shrine and the secluded Okusha, you’ll uncover the ingenious techniques of the renowned Togakure ninja school. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into Nagano’s captivating blend of culinary, historical, and spiritual traditions.

Key Points

• Set out on a culture in Togakushi, exploring the region’s rich history, traditional soba noodle making, and the captivating legacy of the Togakure ninja school.
• Partake in a hands-on soba noodle making experience, utilizing Nagano’s pristine natural water supply to create authentic, flavorful noodles.
• Uncover the secrets of the "Ninja House" at the Togakushi Ninja Museum, navigating a maze of hidden passageways and deceptive traps.
• Venture to the serene Togakushi-Jinja Shrine and the secluded Togakushi Shrine Okusha, experiencing the region’s profound spiritual significance.
• Conclude the day with a scenic return to Nagano Station, reflecting on the captivating cultural heritage and natural wonders of the Togakushi region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Depart From Nagano Station

At 9:35, the tour departs from Nagano Station, embarking on a journey to the scenic Togakushi region. The bus ride takes 45 minutes, transporting guests through the mountainous countryside.

Along the way, travelers can gaze out the windows at the lush, forested landscapes that characterize this area of Nagano Prefecture. The tour’s first stop, Togakushi, is known for its rich history and cultural significance, setting the stage for a day of immersive experiences in traditional Japanese arts and spirituality.

Soba Noodle Making Experience

Upon arriving at the Togakushi region, the tour group heads straight to a local restaurant to partake in a hands-on soba noodle making experience. Soba, or buckwheat, is a staple crop in the Shinshuu Province due to the cool climate and mountainous terrain.

Participants will learn the traditional soba making process from experts, using Nagano’s natural water supply to knead, roll, and cut the noodles. After the demonstration, everyone enjoys savoring their freshly made soba for lunch, a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage. This immersive activity provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship behind this beloved local dish.

Togakushi Ninja Museum and Trick Mansion

After the soba noodle making experience, the tour group heads to the renowned Togakushi Ninja Museum. This historic site celebrates the Togakure school of ninjutsu, founded in the 12th century. Visitors explore the "Ninja House," a maze of secret passageways and deceptive traps designed to challenge the senses.

Emotion	Description
Curiosity	Guests discover hidden doors and passageways
Excitement	Navigating the traps and tricks of the Ninja House
Awe	Learning about the history and techniques of the ninja
Wonder	Marveling at the ingenuity of the ninja’s methods

The museum offers a glimpse into the shadowy world of the ninja, masters of espionage and covert operations. Participants emerge with a new appreciation for the skill and discipline of these legendary figures.

Togakushi-Jinja Shrine

From the Ninja Museum, the tour group carries on to the Togakushi-Jinja Shrine. This historic Shinto shrine dates back to the 7th century and is revered for its awe-inspiring architecture and serene atmosphere. Visitors stroll through the grand torii gate and explore the shrine’s ornate buildings, taking in their ornate decorations and intricate carvings.

The shrine is dedicated to the mountain god Omokaru-no-kami and is an important pilgrimage site for locals. After spending half an hour exploring the shrine’s grounds, the group moves on to the next stop on the itinerary – the Togakushi Shrine Okusha, the main and most secluded shrine in the Togakushi Shrine complex.

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Togakushi Shrine Okusha (Main Shrine) Zuishinmon

The group now embarks on a 45-minute trek through the stunning cedar avenue towards the Togakushi Shrine Okusha, the main and most secluded shrine in the complex. This sacred site sits at the heart of the shrine network, accessible only by a serene forested path.

Feature	Description
Okusha	Main shrine within the Togakushi shrine complex
Location	Atop a mountain, reached by a 45-minute hike
Significance	Most important and hidden of the Togakushi shrines

The Okusha, or main shrine, represents the pinnacle of the Togakushi pilgrim’s journey. Visitors are rewarded with a profound sense of solitude and connection to the natural surroundings upon reaching this secluded, sacred destination.

Return to Nagano Station

With the day’s activities concluded, it’s now time for the group to make their way back to Nagano Station. The bus ride back takes approximately 50 minutes, allowing everyone to reflect on the fascinating journey they’ve experienced.

From the hands-on soba noodle making to the captivating exploration of the Togakushi Ninja Museum, the group has gained a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of this region. As the bus winds through the mountainous terrain, the towering cedar trees and serene landscapes provide a peaceful backdrop, leaving a lasting impression on the participants.

The tour has truly been a well-rounded and immersive experience, and the return to Nagano Station marks the end of an unforgettable day in Togakushi.

Nagano’s Natural Water Supply

Nagano’s natural water supply plays a crucial role in the region’s soba noodle making tradition. The cool climate and mountainous terrain of the Shinshuu Province provide the perfect conditions for cultivating buckwheat, the main ingredient in soba.

The area’s pristine water is used to knead, roll, and cut the soba noodles, contributing to their unique texture and flavor. During the hands-on soba making experience, participants learn from experts how to harness Nagano’s natural resources to craft their own delectable noodles.

The combination of quality ingredients and traditional techniques ensures the soba’s authenticity, making it a true representation of the region’s culinary heritage.

Togakure School of Ninja

Founded in the 12th century, the Togakure school of ninja was established in the mountains of Togakushi. This secretive martial arts school trained covert mercenaries, masters of espionage and deception known as "shinobi." The Togakushi Ninja Museum provides a glimpse into this mysterious world, including the "Ninja House" – a historic escape room-esque maze designed to test visitors’ wits.

Ninja Trait	Description
Stealth	Ninjas moved silently, using the environment to conceal their presence.
Deception	They employed a range of tactics, from disguise to misdirection, to achieve their goals.
Adaptability	Ninjas were skilled at quickly adjusting to changing circumstances on the battlefield.
Discipline	Rigorous training instilled a high degree of mental and physical fortitude.

The Togakure school’s legacy lives on, captivating visitors to this day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does the Tour Cost per Person?

The tour costs $120 per person, which includes transportation, admission fees, the soba noodle making experience, and an English-speaking guide to lead the activities throughout the day.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size is not explicitly mentioned in the details provided. However, the tour includes guided experiences, suggesting it likely accommodates a small to medium-sized group, typically ranging between 8 to 20 participants.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the soba noodle making experience, Ninja Museum visit, and shrine pilgrimage. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase additional souvenirs during the tour. There’s time allotted at each stop to explore local shops and pick up mementos of the Togakushi experience.

Is There a Vegetarian Option for the Soba Noodle Lunch?

Yes, the soba noodle making experience offers a vegetarian option. Participants can request a meat-free version of the handmade soba noodles for their lunch.

Recap

Set out on a captivating 1-day tour that immerses you in Togakushi’s rich cultural heritage. Craft local soba noodles, explore the secretive "Ninja House," and connect with the region’s spiritual essence at historic shrines amidst serene mountainous landscapes. Discover Nagano’s natural water supply and the legacy of the renowned Togakure ninja school, all within a day’s journey.

You can check if your dates are available here: