Stunning Scenery and Spiritual Path
Myoko Togakushirenzan National Park Retreat

You will be enveloped in a solemn atmosphere at Japan’s proud national treasure, Zenkoji Temple, which has approximately 1,400 years of history and is not especially associated with any particular sect. The Rengein Temple, where the principal image of the Kuzuryu Shrine is open to the public, is particularly mysterious and offers a special opportunity to see Japanese Buddhism and the Togakushi faith blend perfectly together. Inside the quiet temple grounds, only the reverberations of prayers are heard and move the hearts of all who listen.

At the Togakushi Middle Shrine, prayers are made using the traditional worshipping methods performed by the Shinto priest. From the moment worshippers enter the sacred area, they experience being engulfed by the holy atmosphere. Feeling as though their spirits are being cleansed, many visitors feel deeply moved by the experience.

For dinner, you can try magnificent seasonal dishes that use the fresh ingredients from Togakushi and the local area. Locally collected vegetables and edible wild plants, as well as wild game, are used as ingredients for the menu, and Togakushi cooking styles are used to bring out the full flavors of the dishes. Taste these delicious dishes surrounded by warmth and beautiful nature.

The second day starts with a tour of the Lower Shrine and the Hinomikosha Shrine. Walking through the majestic rows of cedar trees, deep inside nature, you will finally make your way to the Shinto Shrine. Experience the deeply held faith at Hinomikosha Shrine and find spiritual healing from the powerful sacred trees at the Lower Shrine. With the guide’s guidance, you will learn about the hidden charms and legends and enjoy the seasonal scenery.

E-Cycle through the exhilarating nature of Togakushi on an E-BIKE and enjoy a special lunch at the summit of the ski resort. This is a course even beginners can feel comfortable participating in, cycling to the summit, surrounded by lush nature and a scenery that changes with each season. A special menu is waiting for you at the summit, made from local ingredients, which you can enjoy with the beautiful view.

Ride around the lake or along the highway as you experience the beauty of nature and culture. After enjoying the reflection from the quiet lake surface, challenge yourself with the famous soba-making activity. Learn directly from the artisan as you enjoy making and eating handmade soba noodles. It’s a very different experience to taste the noodles you made yourself, and there’s no better place to try it than amongst the beautiful and lush nature of Togakushi.

On the final day, you will finally explore the central area, the Upper Shrine. Walking through the rows of trees in the early morning, you will be able to feel the history of Japan’s myths, temples, shrines, and sanctuaries. Walking through this area, you can enjoy the sacred atmosphere and feel the mysteries that surround this area, providing you with the feeling of great healing and faith.

Visit the Upper Shrine, and remember the smells and how beautiful the outdoors was as you make your way through the forest and head toward the Kagami Pond. Along the well-maintained path, your guide will teach you about the conservation methods used in the area. Then you can enjoy your breakfast with a great view of Mt. Togakushi. On the way home, you can stop by at a roadside station or campground before heading toward the station as you reminisce upon your 3-day tour.