Yamagata 2-Day Cultural Experience + 1-Night Stay at Shudo (Chinese Guide)

The Dewa Sanzan, collectively known as Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono, are sacred sites of mountain worship. Mount Haguro is said to protect happiness in this life, while Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono are said to protect happiness in past and future lives, respectively. Therefore, a journey to the Dewa Sanzan is often called a "journey of rebirth." For the Japanese, these are renowned sacred sites that must be visited at least once in a lifetime. Beyond its religious significance, the sacred mountain of Mount Haguro is a globally recognized Michelin three-star recommended destination. This two-day, one-night trip also includes a visit to a classic winter destination in Yamagata Prefecture. This itinerary includes a visit to Ginzan Onsen, the setting for the film Spirited Away, a boat trip on the Mogami River, one of Japan's three fastest rivers, a cable car ride overlooking the magnificent frost-covered Zao trees, and a night spent in a monastery experiencing the life of a yogi. In 2023, we all deserve to experience a journey of rebirth.

#Haguro (414m), Gassan (1984m), and Mount Yudono (1500m)

– About the Scenic Spot | Two-Day In-Depth Cultural Experience in Yamagata During the Snowy Season | Departing from Sendai –

▲Dewa Sanzan Shrine
Mount Haguro, located in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, is a center of Tohoku Buddhist culture, along with Aizu in Fukushima Prefecture and Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture. The "Dewa Sanzan" at Dewa Sanzan Shrine collectively refers to Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono, and is a sacred site for mountain worship. Mount Haguro is said to bring happiness in this life, while Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono protect happiness in past and future lives, respectively. Therefore, the journey to the Three Mountains of Dewa is often called the "Journey of Rebirth." These sacred sites are considered by Japanese people to be a must-visit at least once in a lifetime.

The area is home to numerous cultural treasures. The five-story pagoda, a National Treasure, is the oldest in the Tohoku region and is at its most beautiful during the winter, blanketed in heavy snow. The ancient wooden structure stands tall amidst a dense cedar forest, its majestic grandeur and unique presence enhanced by the heavy snow. Standing beneath it, one feels insignificant and awestruck. Within the grounds of Dewa Shrine, there are numerous shrines of various sizes, as well as small bridges, flowing water, and towering trees. In addition to the thousand-year-old cedar trees known as "Yasugi," countless more are over a century old.

Entering the grounds requires climbing a series of stone steps, each of which is quite charming. Sanjin Gosaiden (Sanjin Gosaiden) is a unique architectural style developed by the Haguro school of ancient Buddhist training, known as Gosaiden-zukuri. It is a nationally recognized Important Cultural Property. Because Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono are closed during the winter, Dewa Shrine is the primary location for worship and attracts the most visitors. Accommodation is available in the area surrounding Dewa Shrine, allowing visitors to experience the customs of traditional worship and shojin cuisine.

▲Special Boat Tour on the Mogami River
The Mogami River, one of Japan's three greatest rapids, is the largest river in Yamagata Prefecture. Known as the "Mother River," the Mogami River runs north and south, and was once a popular destination for rice-carrying boats. The Mogami River Cruise offers a chance to fully enjoy the Mogami Gorge, one of the most scenic spots on the Mogami River. Not only can you admire the magnificent scenery of the Mogami Gorge, which changes with the seasons, including fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snowy scenes, but you can also enjoy the boatman's boat songs and entertaining commentary. The Japanese haiku poet Matsuo Basho's "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road of the Deep) visited the Mogami River, spending over 40 days there. Today, we'll follow in Basho's footsteps, enjoying the scenery along the riverbanks as we listen to the boatman, dressed in traditional clothes and wearing conical hats, sing traditional Yamagata folk songs. Although the seasons differ from Basho's, the mountain scenery is equally breathtaking with its distinct seasonal beauty.

▲Special Ropeway Ride to the Mountaintop to See the Juhyo (Hydrome)
The Zao Juhyo (Hydrome) appears every winter. Juhyo (Hydrome) forms when water-laden air cools, condensing into frost on the mountaintops and then wrapping around the trees. This is why they are often called "ice monsters." During the day, the Zao Ropeway offers a breathtaking aerial view of this magnificent spectacle, reminiscent of a military parade. At night, witness the vibrant illuminations of the Zao trees during the winter frost season. It's not only breathtaking, but also a popular Instagram spot!

▲ Ginzan Onsen Stroll

In Yamagata Prefecture, which borders Miyagi Prefecture, lies Ginzan Onsen, nestled along the Ginzan River valley. The clear, steaming waters of the Ginzan River flow through the area, and rows of wooden inns create a tranquil, idyllic atmosphere. Legend has it that over 500 years ago, the discovery of silver mining gave the area its name, Ginzan. Ginzan flourished thanks to the silver mining, but declined with its decline. It wasn't until the early Showa era, when hot springs were discovered, that Ginzan gained widespread fame and continues to attract visitors today. The classic Japanese drama "Oshin" was also filmed here. The hot spring bathhouse in Hayao Miyazaki's acclaimed film "Spirited Away" is said to have been inspired by Ginzan Onsen. Stepping into Ginzan Onsen creates a romantic illusion of time travel back to the Taisho era.

#Hotel: Shukubo - Daijinbo
#Accommodation: Double room, primarily Japanese-style with tatami mats.