Highlights

[Haguro Shrine]

All the deities of the Dewa Sanzan are enshrined in the main hall, the “Sanjin Gosai-den” (Haguro Shrine), located on Mount Haguro. Legend has it that 1,400 years ago, Prince Hachiko, the son of Emperor Sushu (the 32nd emperor), built a shrine on this site after being guided by a sacred three-legged crow.

Mount Haguro Approach Path and Cedar Grove

This approximately 2-kilometer approach path (2,446 stone steps) leads from the Zuijin Gate to the mountaintop. It is lined with a grove of cedar trees ranging from 350 to 500 years old, designated as a National Special Natural Monument. Its mystical and beautiful scenery is highly regarded.

Mt. Haguro Five-Story Pagoda

Standing along the approach path, this National Treasure five-story pagoda is said to be the oldest in the Tohoku region. It harmonizes beautifully with the giant cedar trees surrounding it.

Dewa Sanzan Shrine: Sanjin Gosaiden

Located at the summit of Mt. Haguro, this shrine enshrines the deities of the Dewa Sanzan (Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono) together. Its thatched roof, the largest of its kind in the Tohoku region, is truly spectacular.

[Mount Gassan]

At an elevation of 1,984 meters, this is the main peak of the Dewa Sanzan. It is regarded as the “spirit world” where the souls of the dead gather, and is a mysterious alpine region where vast snowfields remain even in summer.

Mt. Gassan, 8th Station: Midagahara

This plateau, located at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters, is accessible by wetland tram or bus. It is a treasure trove of alpine plants—a rarity even on a global scale—and visitors can easily enjoy a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained wooden boardwalk, which takes about 60 minutes to complete.

Gassan Shrine, Main Shrine (Summit) 

Located at the summit, about 2.5 to 3 hours’ climb up a proper hiking trail from the 8th Station. This sacred precinct, surrounded by stone walls, enshrines Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto, the god who presides over the moon. Visits are permitted only during the mountain’s open season (July 1 to late August).

[Mount Yudono]

This mountain, standing at an elevation of 1,504 meters, is regarded in Shugendo as the “ultimate place of ascetic practice” (Okuno-in). Since ancient times, the saying “Speak not, hear not” has been passed down here; it is a sacred place where discussing the interior of the Main Shrine or taking photographs is strictly prohibited.

Yudono-san Shrine 

This is an extremely rare shrine with no main hall (building). The object of worship is the “giant, tea-brown, oddly shaped rock from which hot springs gush forth” itself. Visitors must remove their shoes, go barefoot, and undergo a purification ritual before paying their respects.

Yudono-san Great Torii Gate

This is a large, vivid vermilion torii gate that towers at the entrance to Yudono-san (near the parking lot and rest house). A shuttle bus runs from here to the entrance of the main shrine, but you can also walk there (about 30 minutes) while enjoying the great outdoors.

Yudonosan Sanrojo is an accommodation and rest facility located right next to the Great Torii Gate. At the dining area, you can enjoy the famous “Yudonosan Udon,” made with sacred spring water. You can also experience an authentic retreat (sanro) or take a day trip to bathe in the Goshintou (hot spring).

[Saikan in Mt. Haguro ]

Historical Value: Of the more than 30 monastic quarters (Kezō-in) that once existed within Mt. Haguro, this is the only surviving structure where Yamabushi ascetics once lived (designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by Tsuruoka City).

Traditional Shojin Ryori: You can savor authentic shojin ryori (reservation required)—prepared using seasonal wild vegetables and mushrooms harvested from the Dewa Sanzan and cooked using traditional methods passed down through the ages—while taking in the breathtaking views of the Shonai Plain.

Accommodation Experience: General visitors and tourists can also stay here as guests at the temple lodging (sanroujo), spending a special time immersed in the tranquility of this mystical sacred mountain.