Train Like a True Shugendo Mountain Mystic in Yamagata

Get in touch with nature by authentically embracing this ancient faith

About 300 kilometers north of Tokyo in Yamagata Prefecture—and within the borders of Bandai-Asahi National Park—lie a trio of sacred mountains: the Dewa Sanzan. Journey there and immerse yourself in the ways of the local yamabushi, white-robed followers of the ancient Japanese mountain religion of Shugendo.

Meet Master Hoshino, who will guide you in an authentic training program to reconnect you with nature and refresh mind and body. Various programs offer different activities: stay at the Daishobo pilgrim lodge, where you can eat traditional yamabushi food, hike sacred trails, and even experience waterfall meditation.

Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Joetsu Shikansen to Niigata Station (about two hours), then transfer to the Inaho Line to Tsuruoka Station (about one hour 50 minutes)and take a bus or taxi to the Mt. Haguro area (about 50 minutes).

Contribution to Sustainability

Generations of mountain priests known as Yamabushi have walked these peaks for more than 1,100 years. You can join the Yamabushi, learn ancient meditation techniques, and find ways to reconnect with yourself to live in harmony with nature.