South of Tsuruoka, in Yamagata Prefecture, the three sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan — Haguro, Gassan and Yudono — form an active pilgrimage site for over a millennium. A central location of Shugendo, this ascetic tradition blending Shinto and Buddhism, the ensemble combines centuries-old cedar forests, a nationally designated treasure pagoda and high-altitude shrines.

Why visit Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan offers one of Japan's most complete pilgrimage experiences, accessible to both seasoned hikers and visitors with just half a day to spare. Mount Haguro alone concentrates most of the architectural heritage: the Zuishin-mon gate, a five-storey pagoda and a thatched-roof shrine. For those staying several days, the progression through all three peaks represents an initiatory journey linking the past (Haguro), the present (Gassan) and rebirth (Yudono), according to local cosmology.

The site remains frequented by Yamabushi, ascetics dressed in white who still practise Shugendo rituals in the forests and beneath waterfalls. Encountering their processions in season is one of the possible encounters on the trail.

History and religious heritage

The name Sanzan means "three mountains,