3506 Togakushi, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Located to the left of the Okusha main hall, Kuzuryusha is the oldest of the Togakushi Five Shrines, dedicated to the local deity of Togakushi. Kuzuryu Okami, the god of water and the source of life, has been worshipped since ancient times as a god of rain, dental health, and matchmaking. Note that the mountain is closed during winter (January 7 to mid-April) due to the risk of avalanches. It's accessible by a 65-minute drive from Nagano IC, 30 minutes from Shinano-machi IC, or a 60-minute bus ride from JR Nagano Station followed by a 40-minute walk. Parking is available for 200 cars, with a fee for larger vehicles.