Togakushi Shrine Closes Famous Cedar Avenue Until Spring 2026
NAGANO, JAPAN – In an unprecedented move, Togakushi Shrine has completely closed the iconic cedar-lined path leading to its Upper Shrine (Okusha) until spring 2026. The restriction, effective immediately, bars all access beyond the Zuishinmon Gate, a decision prompted by a surge in safety incidents and severe etiquette violations.
This closure aims to prevent further accidents and preserve the sanctity of the sacred site, which has seen a rapid increase in international tourists during the winter, reportedly fueled by social media .
Table of Contents
The Closure: What’s Blocked and Why
The closure specifically affects the approximately 500-meter path beyond the Zuishinmon Gate, famously lined with over 200 giant cedar trees. To enforce the ban, nets have been installed throughout the avenue to physically prevent entry.
The decision was driven by two critical factors: safety and worsening visitor etiquette.
Safety: A Deadly Risk
The area is prone to avalanches, and the local tourism association reported four separate distress incidents last winter, tragically resulting in one fatality. The heavy snowfall makes the path treacherous for those unprepared for alpine conditions.
Etiquette Violations: Disrespect for a Sacred Site
The shrine has also struggled with a rise in improper behavior. As visitor numbers swelled, so did the problems left in their wake.
Crampons discarded on the path—one of the many manner violations that led to this unprecedented closure decision.
Shrine staff are burdened with cleaning up trash like this every spring—a situation that has worsened with the surge in visitors.
With toilets closed during winter, some visitors have resorted to relieving themselves along the approach path—a serious concern for the sacred site.
Yuichi Kusukawa, a priest at the shrine, expressed the community’s distress: “This is a sacred place for us,” he stated, emphasizing that the grounds are not a casual hiking trail but a divine garden .
“This is a sacred place for us,” says Yuichi Kusukawa, a priest at Togakushi Shrine, expressing the shrine’s concern over the situation.
Key Information for Visitors
| Feature | Details |
| Closed Area | The path from Zuishinmon Gate to the Upper Shrine (Okusha) |
| Duration | From January 2026 until spring 2026 (exact date TBD) |
| Reason | Avalanche risk, safety concerns, and severe etiquette violations |
| Access | Visitors can still access the area up to the Zuishinmon Gate |
| Official Action | A physical net has been installed to block the path |
What Can You Still See?
While the iconic cedar avenue is inaccessible, visitors can still enjoy the winter scenery of the Togakushi area and visit the lower parts of the shrine complex, including the area leading up to the Zuishinmon Gate. The Chusha (Middle Shrine) and Hoko-sha (Lower Shrine) remain accessible as usual and offer a beautiful and spiritual experience.
How to Get to Togakushi Shrine
Access to the main entrance of the Okusha area remains unchanged.
•By Bus: From Nagano Station, take the Alpico bus bound for Togakushi. The ride to the Togakushi-Okusha-Iriguchi (Togakushi Upper Shrine Entrance) bus stop takes about 60-70 minutes.
Klook.com•By Car: The area is accessible by car, but be aware that winter driving conditions can be challenging. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires or chains.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
•Respect the Rules: The closure is a serious measure for safety and preservation. Do not attempt to bypass the barriers.
•Check Conditions: Always check the latest weather and access information before you travel.
•Use Facilities: Public toilets may be limited during the winter. Please use designated facilities before heading to the shrine area.
•Explore Alternatives: This is a great opportunity to explore the other shrines in the Togakushi complex (Chusha, Hoko-sha) or other winter activities in the Nagano area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I see the famous cedar trees at all?
You can see the beginning of the cedar avenue from the Zuishinmon Gate, but you cannot walk through it.
2. When exactly will the path reopen in spring 2026?
The exact date has not been announced. It will depend on snowmelt and safety conditions. Check the official Togakushi Shrine website for updates.
3. Is the rest of Togakushi Shrine open?
Yes, the other shrines in the complex, such as the Middle Shrine (Chusha), are open as usual.
4. Why was this decision made?
The decision was made after a fatal accident and repeated safety and etiquette issues, prompting the shrine to take preventative measures.
5. Where can I find official information?
For the most reliable and up-to-date information, please refer to the official Togakushi Tourism Association website.
A Final Word
The temporary closure of the Togakushi Okusha path is a necessary step to ensure visitor safety and protect a sacred site from the negative impacts of overtourism. It serves as a crucial reminder to all travelers to respect the rules, culture, and natural environment of the places they visit.
Sources
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