Spiritual Trekking to Ancient Shrines and Sacred Places in Nagano
Shugendo Mountain Hiking Experience
Discover the sacred side of Japan in the mountains of northern Nagano. Shugendo is an ancient spiritual path where mountain monks trained by hiking into deep forests to reach hidden shrines. Those original trails still exist — and on this tour, we walk them. Kosuge, Togakushi, and Mt. Iizuna are powerful places where nature, tradition, and mystery come together. Feel the quiet beauty of cedar forests, hear the wind in the peaks, and experience Japan not just as a tourist — but in the same way the monks once did.
Travel itinerary
Tour starts from Iiyama Station
Day 1~2
Experience Shugendo and Hike Shin'etsu Trail
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Meeting with your guide at Iiyama station at 10:30am - easily accessed by bullet train from Tokyo, 100 min. Any luggage can be transferred to the next accommodation from here.
With the last mountain monk in northern Nagano, you’ll experience a spiritual and unique trekking you’ve never had.
Highlights include hiking the Kosuge trail and Shin'estu trail as well as guests being able to try a cultural experience "Shafutsu" - spiritual calligraphic drawing of Buddha.
Here, you can experience shabutsu, a rare Buddhist practice even in Japan.
After a short zazen (meditation) session, you will calm your mind further and trace an image of Buddha with deep concentration.
A monk will then perform a spiritual blessing, infusing the work with sacred energy.
You may take your completed piece home as a protective charm — a truly special experience and a memorable part of your journey.
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Walking Distance
Day1 4.0km +370m / Day2 11.8km +220m
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Day 3~4
Togakushi Shrine and Amatomi Trail
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The Togakushi area in Nagano is famed for its mystical atmosphere, ancient shrines, and pristine natural beauty. Hiking the Amatomi Trail offers a serene journey through lush forests, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of Naena Waterfall, known as the "earthquake waterfall" for its thunderous roar. Another highlight is walking the Togakushi route to the serene Kagami ike pond.
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Walking Distance
Day3 12.7km +250m /Day4 9.8km +292m
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Day 5~6
Nagano Zenkoji Temple and Mt. Iizuna
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Visiting Nagano offers a rich blend of history and culture, with the iconic Zenkoji Temple serving as a spiritual and architectural centerpiece. Just a short distance away, hiking Mt. Iizuna provides stunning panoramic views and a rewarding outdoor adventure.
Guests also have the special chance to experience the Gomataki, or Buddhist fire ritual.
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Walking Distance
Day5 N/A / Day6 8.0km +800m
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Day 7
Finishing at Nagano Station
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*From Nagano station to the next destinations via train:
Tokyo - 1h 20mins
Kanazawa - 1 hour
Kyoto - 3.5 hours
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INCLUDED
6 nights of accommodation at hotels and Japanese inns(Ryokan), Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners, 1 experienced EN speaking guide to provide local knowledge and support, Entrance fees for all activities, private tours and events, All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip by support van
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NOT INCLUDED
Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations, Lodging before and after the trip, Personal items purchased during the trip, Tips, Alcohol, Trip cancellation and travel protection *We recommend adding travel protection to your trip
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SEASON
April to June and October, November
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MIN/MAX PAX
Min 4 / Max 10
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DURATION
7-day, 6-night
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SUPPORTED LANGUAGE
English