Mt. Haguro, Tsuruoka

I’ve climbed this mountain more than 100 times and every single time it manages to send shivers up my spine. The lowest of the Dewa Sanzan, Mt. Haguro is a Mecca for all things Shugendo. The Shukubo pilgrim lodges, five story pagoda, cedar forest and stone stairway, then the thickest thatch roof in the whole of Japan at Dewa Sanzan shrine mean that Mt. Haguro is a definite must see for anyone coming to Tohoku. I’ve written an in-depth article on my website, and am part of a group called Yamabushido that offers life-chaning Yamabushi training through master Hoshino of Daishobo pilgrim lodge. Be sure to check it out!

I hiked to Mt. Haguro on July 14th. Although you can go to the by car or bus I started to climb from the stairs to feel what it means to the Shintoists. It was tiring to step 2446 stone steps but it worths to do that. The hike stars after you enter from the temple gate near to the tourist information. You can come here by car or bus. Free parking available. There is a toilet and vending machines around before you star the hike. There are many small shrines on the way. Japanese cedar trees are gorgeous. They are 200 ~ 500 years old. Don’t miss the grandpa cedar tree. Based on the information written there are 284 on the right side and 301 on the left side totaling 585 cedar trees. The path was easier than expected actually. You are not just ascending all the time. Some parts are straight and helps you relax. It is 1.7 km long and there is a small resting area where you can enjoy a coupe of coffee or noodles with spectacular view. 5 stairs Togendo is near to the starting point. There are gourd pictures drawn on some of the stones. There are 33 in total but I could find few only. The temples on the top were great looking. This mountain represents birth and it is one of the three mountains that Shintoist priests climb to be purified. Climbing stone stairs made me think of the pain of a women before the birth. Once you get the top you forgot all the pains in your legs and feel relaxed and calm. The thickness of the roofs of the temples were very thick and all of them decoded exclusively. I highly recommend this place. Check the photos I posted here to get to know more about the hike in July. Like this comment if it was helpful.