Dewa-sanzan Climbing

Journey into the Spiritual Heart of Japan

Tucked away in Japan’s Yamagata Prefecture, the Dewa Sanzan a trio of sacred mountains consisting of Haguro san, Gas san, and Yudono san offers one of the country’s most profound and mystical spiritual journeys. For over 1,400 years, these mountains have been revered as a center of Shugendo Buddhism, a deeply ascetic and nature-based spiritual path followed by the Yamabushi, or mountain monks.

The pilgrimage through Dewa Sanzan is more than just a hike it’s a symbolic journey through death, rebirth, and spiritual awakening. Whether you’re seeking inner peace, cultural insight, or scenic trekking adventures, Dewa Sanzan promises a transformative experience steeped in tradition.

Origins of Shugendo and the Yamabushi

The spiritual history of Dewa Sanzan began when the son of a Japanese emperor made a pilgrimage to these remote peaks over a millennium ago. There, he engaged in rigorous religious training that would later evolve into Shugendo, a unique blend of esoteric Buddhism, Shinto, and Taoism.

Shugendo practitioners the Yamabushi follow a strict code that emphasizes living in harmony with nature. Their training includes meditation, ascetic fasting, mountain trekking, and even physical endurance challenges like wrestling.

Traditional Yamabushi Clothing and Rituals

Spotting a Yamabushi in their iconic outfit is part of the magic of Dewa Sanzan. Their attire includes:

• A checked overshirt

• Loose-fitting white pants

• Straw sandals for rugged mountain terrain

• A short, pointed cap signifying humility

• A conch-shell trumpet (horagai) used to signal their presence, echoing hauntingly through the mountains

These symbols and sounds give Dewa Sanzan a mystical, almost otherworldly feel especially when fog creeps between the ancient cedars or chants resonate from temple grounds.

Explore the Sacred Mountains

If you’re short on time, it’s possible to explore Mt. Haguro or Mt. Gas-san in under two hours each. However, to truly immerse yourself in the spiritual experience, we recommend dedicating several days to Dewa Sanzan. Here’s a quick overview:

Mt. Haguro (羽黒山) – The Gateway to the Sacred

• The most accessible of the three

• Features the iconic Five-Story Pagoda, a UNESCO-recognized site

• Climb the 2,446 stone steps lined with centuries-old cedar trees

• Visit Sanjin Gosaiden Shrine, where all three mountain deities are enshrined

Mt. Gas-san (月山) – The Mountain of the Moon

• A challenging hike often covered in snow until mid-summer

• Considered the spiritual center of rebirth in Shugendo

• Offers stunning alpine scenery and seasonal wildflowers

Mt. Yudono (湯殿山) – The Mountain of Secrets

• The most sacred and mysterious of the three

• Cameras and shoes are not allowed at the shrine

• A pilgrimage here symbolizes spiritual rebirth

Tips for Travelers and Pilgrims

• Start at Mt. Haguro for an easier entry into the experience

• Stay at a shukubo (temple lodging) for a traditional Yamabushi meal and sunrise rituals

• Prepare for the terrain: hiking boots, layered clothing, and plenty of water are a must

• Visit between June and September when all three peaks are accessible

A Sacred Trek Worth the Effort

Visiting Dewa Sanzan isn’t just another stop on a sightseeing itinerary it’s a chance to disconnect from the world, reconnect with nature, and discover ancient spiritual practices that still thrive in modern Japan. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of emperors or seeking your own path to clarity, Dewa Sanzan welcomes all who are ready to walk with purpose.