Hidden deep in the serene mountains of Togakushi, the legend of Japan’s ninja comes to life. For over 800 years, this region has been known as the home of the Togakure school of ninja, where warriors trained in secret techniques, espionage, and survival skills. Today, visitors can step into this mysterious world at the Togakushi Ninja & Folk Museum, exploring authentic tools, weapons, and traditional practices, while experiencing the clever tricks and traps of the Ninja House. On this page you will find the following information:
What is the Togakushi Ninja Museum?
Established in the 12th century, the Togakure school of ninja was founded in the mountains of Togakushi and was from that time onward, the area has been known for its connection to those most mysterious of warriors. Located directly across from the avenue leading to the Okusha (Upper Shrine), the ‘Togakure Ninpo Museum’ or Togakushi Ninja & Folk Museum showcases the local Togakure school of ninja including exhibits of tools and weapons used.
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
- Spots:
- NaganoTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Founded by a local warrior who travelled to Iga – the traditional home of ninja – in the 12th century, Togakushi and its museum tell the story of the local school, of which, there continue to be practitioners; while the Museum of Togakushi Folklore exhibits traditional tools, clothing, furniture and other artefacts unique to the area. Visitors can try their hand at essential ninja skills such as throwing ‘shuriken’ (ninja stars) while the highlight of the museum lies in wait at the Ninja House. Rigged with secret doors, passages and traps to confuse those who enter, the aim is simple – get yourself back out of the house!
The house is a true maze, equally fun for adults as it is children. The museum and ninja house are open to the public from late-April until mid-November (closed through winter due to snow). For visitors with young children, you might also like to consider a visit to the nearby Kids’ Ninja Village which is specifically designed for the youngest ninja amongst us!
Tours and Charters to Togakushi
Discover Togakushi with ease through our guided tours and private charters, offering seamless access to its shrines, ninja heritage, and natural beauty.
Group and Private Tours
Regardless of the season, Togakushi has so much to offer in its vast forests and connection to rural culture. You can experience Togakushi at any time of the year using the appropriate tour options below:
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines / July to November
Based in Central Japan and operating in July, August, September, October and November, we offer a highly entertaining group-tour of Togakushi that is sure to please! All tours are led by locally-based guides and combine a visit to several places-of-interest in Togakushi, including a hands-on soba noodle crafting experience, ninja village trick house, and a visit to an ancient Shinto shrine hidden within the avenue of giant cedars! Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner or button below.
1-Day Togakushi Legends Tour: Hands-on Soba Noodles, Ninja Village, and Hidden Shrines
- Spots:
- NaganoTogakushi
- Pick-up:
- Nagano City
- Drop-off:
- Nagano City
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Togakushi area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter, including a private vehicle and driver but without a guide. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Got a question about visiting Togakushi or the general Nagano area? Click the ‘INQUIRY’ button below to contact us and let’s get planning together!
Private Charters from Ski Resorts to Togakushi
Do you want to visit Togakushi as a rest day from the slopes? Although the ninja museum is closed in winter, we have perfect instantly bookable options from the following ski resorts that can help you travel in convenience and style to these storied woods. Please see the various charter options below:
Private Round-trip Charter from Hakuba to Togakushi
Private Round-trip Charter from Nozawa Onsen to Togakushi
NOZAWA ONSEN → TOGAKUSHI (2HR) → NOZAWA ONSEN
- Duration:
- 4-5 Hours
- Spots:
- Nozawa Onsen, Togakushi
Private Round-trip Charter from Shiga Kogen to Togakushi
ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA (SHIGA KOGEN) → TOGAKUSHI (2HR) → ICHINOSE/TAKAMAGAHARA (SHIGA KOGEN)
- Duration:
- 5-6 Hours
- Spots:
- Shiga Kogen, Togakushi
If your chosen start and end points are not listed here, you can always hit the inquiry button at the bottom right of the page to speak with us directly to make your desired trip a reality!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Togakushi Ninja Museum?
The Togakushi Ninja & Folk Museum, also known as the Togakure Ninpo Museum, showcases the historic Togakure school of ninja founded in the 12th century. Visitors can explore authentic ninja tools, weapons, and traditional practices, as well as the famous Ninja House with its secret doors, hidden passages, and traps.
Where is the Togakushi Ninja Museum located?
The museum is located in the mountains of Togakushi, directly across from the cedar avenue leading to the Okusha (Upper Shrine). It is approximately 20–30 kilometers north of Nagano City and is accessible by car, local bus, or private tour.
When is the Togakushi Ninja Museum open?
The museum is open to the public from late April until mid-November. It is closed during the winter months due to heavy snow in the Togakushi mountains.
Can I try ninja activities at the museum?
Yes! Visitors can practice essential ninja skills, including throwing shuriken (ninja stars). The Ninja House offers an interactive maze with secret doors and hidden passages for adults and children to enjoy.
Is the Togakushi Ninja Museum suitable for children?
Absolutely. The museum and Ninja House are family-friendly, offering engaging activities for children. For younger visitors, the nearby Kids’ Ninja Village provides age-appropriate ninja-themed experiences.
Do I need a guide to visit the Togakushi Ninja Museum?
A guide is not required to explore the museum itself. However, for a deeper understanding of Togakushi’s ninja history and the surrounding shrines, guided tours are recommended. Guided tours can also help coordinate travel and maximize your visit to the area.
How do I get to the Togakushi Ninja Museum?
The museum is easiest to reach by car or taxi from Nagano City, which takes about 50–60 minutes. Public buses also connect Nagano Station to Togakushi, and private charters from nearby ski resorts are available for convenience and comfort.
What other attractions are near the Togakushi Ninja Museum?
Nearby attractions include the Okusha (Upper Shrine), the cedar avenue, traditional Togakushi soba restaurants, bamboo craft shops, and hiking trails. Togakushi also offers seasonal highlights such as autumn foliage and winter snowshoeing.
Can I combine a visit to the Togakushi Ninja Museum with other tours?
Yes! Private charters and guided tours can combine your museum visit with Togakushi’s shrines, natural scenery, and ninja heritage experiences. Options include round-trip charters from Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, or Shiga Kogen ski resorts.
Why is Togakushi important in ninja history?
Togakushi is the birthplace of the Togakure school of ninja, founded in the 12th century. The area is historically significant as a training ground for secret techniques, espionage, and survival skills, linking it closely to Japan’s martial and cultural heritage.