Nagano City, Japan — Togakushi Shrine, one of Nagano’s most revered Shinto sites, has strengthened access restrictions to its Okusha (Inner Shrine) during the winter season, following a sharp increase in foreign visitors and growing safety and environmental concerns.
The shrine has installed nets along the approach path beyond the Zuishinmon Gate, effectively prohibiting entry until spring. The decision comes amid rising risks of avalanches and repeated incidents of inappropriate visitor behavior.
Surge in Winter Visitors Driven by Social Media
Togakushi Shrine’s iconic cedar tree avenue, stretching approximately 500 meters beyond the Zuishinmon Gate and lined with more than 200 towering cedar trees, has recently become a popular photography spot on social media.
According to shrine officials, the number of overseas tourists visiting the area has increased significantly over the past year, largely due to images shared online showing the snow-covered cedar path. Many visitors have attempted to enter the area during winter to capture photos, despite hazardous conditions.
Safety Risks and Fatal Incident
The surrounding area is known for avalanche risks during winter. The local tourism association reported four mountain distress incidents last season, including one fatality.
Officials also cited widespread safety violations, such as visitors discarding metal crampons (ice cleats) along roads and paths.
Environmental and Cultural Concerns
Winter closures of restrooms have led to further problems, with some visitors relieving themselves alongside the sacred path. Shrine staff said they were forced to spend significant time in spring cleaning up discarded paper and waste left behind.
“The approach path is part of the shrine grounds—it is also considered the garden of the deity,” said Yuichi Kusukawa, a Shinto priest (negi) at Togakushi Shrine. “We must find measures that allow us to welcome worshippers while also protecting what is sacred to us.”
Measures to Raise Awareness
In addition to physical barriers, the local tourism association has begun distributing information leaflets in English and Chinese to bus passengers and visitors, explaining the restrictions and the associated safety risks.
The move reflects growing challenges faced by popular destinations in Japan as winter tourism increases, particularly in areas where sacred spaces, natural hazards, and social media-driven travel intersect.
