Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a group of three sacred mountains located in Yamagata Prefecture, northern Japan. These mountains – Haguro-san, Gassan and Yudono-san – are important pilgrimage sites for Japanese Buddhism.

Haguro-san, the lowest of the three mountains, is a place of great beauty and spirituality. It is often visited by trekkers who admire the majesty of its ancient wooden gates, called ‘torii’. Here, visitors can also explore the immense cedar forest surrounding the mountain and visit the Haguro-san temple, an important Buddhist site.

Gassan, the highest of the three mountains, is famous for being the only place in Japan where summer skiing is possible. During the winter, it is covered by a thick blanket of snow, but on hot summer days, skiers come here to enjoy the still snow-covered slopes. The panoramic view from its summit is simply breathtaking.

Yudono-san, considered the holiest site of the three mountains, is an important pilgrimage centre. It is known for its ancient Yudono shrine, where pilgrims are said to purify themselves spiritually. Access to this mountain is restricted and requires the performance of certain rituals and prayers.

Dewa Sanzan offers visitors a unique experience where they can immerse themselves in the pristine nature of the mountains and understand the importance of Buddhism in Japanese culture. Each mountain has its own special atmosphere and significance, creating a unique and spiritually enriching pilgrimage itinerary.

The best time to visit is between July and mid-September when all three shrines are open to pilgrims and tourists.