Nagano Togakushi: Snowshoe hike with guide & coffee stop

Summary

Snowshoe through Nagano’s 400-year-old cedars & frozen lakes with a local guide

You’ll walk beneath ancient cedar trees on snowshoes in Togakushi near Nagano, guided by a local who shares stories of monks and wildlife. Sip hot coffee at a snowy table you help build, then cross a frozen lake as the forest hushes around you. It’s an experience that lingers long after your boots are off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how quiet everything felt under all that snow — like the world had been turned down a notch. We’d just strapped on our snowshoes (the guide, Sato-san, checked everyone’s straps twice — he said it’s “bad luck to lose a shoe in Togakushi”) and started along this path lined with cedar trees so tall and old you almost feel like you’re walking through a temple made of wood. The air smelled sharp, almost sweet, and every step made this soft crunch I still hear in my head sometimes.

Sato-san pointed out animal tracks I never would’ve noticed — rabbit, maybe fox? He told us about the mountain monks who used to train here, even in winter. At one point we stopped by this enormous tree that apparently you can only reach when the snow is deep enough to walk over the usual undergrowth. He made a table out of packed snow (I tried to help but mine collapsed instantly) and brewed coffee right there. It tasted smokier than usual, maybe from the cold or just because my hands were freezing.

Later we shuffled across a frozen lake — honestly I hesitated at first, but everyone else seemed fine so I followed. The ice groaned a little underfoot (not gonna lie, my heart jumped), but Sato-san grinned and said it was “stronger than it sounds.” The whole place glowed blue-white in the afternoon light. There weren’t any crowds, just our small group and the sound of wind moving through branches. It didn’t feel like any other day trip from Nagano or even Japan — more like slipping into some old story for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowshoeing in Togakushi Forest

• Snowshoe tour in beech forest
• Walk along 400-year-old cedar trees
• Visit giant tree accessible in winter
• Guide makes coffee on snow table
• Walk on frozen lake

Top questions

Is snowshoe rental included on this Nagano tour?

Yes, MSR snowshoes and poles are provided for all participants.

How do we get to Togakushi for the snowshoe hike?

Public transportation options are available nearby for access to Togakushi.

Is this snowshoe tour suitable for beginners?

Travelers should have at least moderate fitness; no advanced skills required.

Will there be a local guide during the hike?

Yes, an experienced local guide leads the entire tour.

Are meals or drinks included on this day trip?

A coffee break is included; no full meal is provided during the tour.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical demands.

What makes this Nagano snowshoeing experience unique?

You’ll walk among 400-year-old cedars and cross a frozen lake only accessible in winter.

What’s included

Your day includes MSR snowshoe and pole rental, guidance from a local expert throughout the hike, insurance coverage for peace of mind, plus a fresh coffee break served right on the snow before heading back down through those ancient woods.