Togakushi
One of the many mountainous regions in Nagano Prefecture, Togakushi is well known in Japan for a number of reasons. As a winter ski area, a bird watchers paradise, a trekkers dream to ramble amongst the diverse flora and fauna of the area, the birthplace of 'The Ninja' and the five ancient Shinto Shrines or 'Jinja' that people come to visit from far and wide throughout the year, come rain or shine, snow blizzard or dust storm to pay homage.
The five ancient shinto shrines in the area date back to nearly 1000 years and siutuated amidst stunning natural scenery. A number of them are ornately decorated in beautiful wood carvings and created by the hands of true craftsman.
The picture on the left is of Houkousha Shrine. Others include Hinomikosha and Chusha. Okusha and Kuzuryusha are situated half way up Togakushi Mountain and reached via a grand avenue of 900 year old giant Japanese Redwood trees.