Mt. Haguro — A Sacred Mountain Enshrining the Gods of the Dewa Sanzan

Nestled in the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture, Mt. Haguro is one of the three sacred mountains known collectively as the Dewa Sanzan.

Composed of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono, the Dewa Sanzan have long been revered as a spiritual destination symbolizing a “journey of rebirth,” welcoming pilgrims from across Japan for centuries.

At an elevation of 414 meters, Mt. Haguro is home to the Sanjin Gosaiden Shrine at its summit, where the deities of all three mountains are enshrined together. Unlike the other peaks, Mt. Haguro can be visited year-round.

As you step onto the ancient approach, you are surrounded by a sacred atmosphere created by towering cedar trees—many over several hundred years old—and the 2,446 stone steps leading up the mountain.

Along the way stands the magnificent Five-Story Pagoda, a National Treasure and one of the most beautiful pagodas in the Tohoku region. The serene surroundings and natural beauty create a deeply calming and spiritual experience.

2026 — The “Year of Connection” for Mt. Haguro

Each of the Dewa Sanzan mountains has a special “Gonen Year” (Year of Sacred Connection) that occurs once every 12 years:

• Mt. Yudono — Year of the Ox
• Mt. Gassan — Year of the Rabbit
• Mt. Haguro — Year of the Horse

And in 2026 (Reiwa 8), Mt. Haguro enters its special “Year of the Horse” Gonen Year.

It is said that visiting the mountain during its Gonen Year brings blessings equivalent to 12 years of worship, making it an especially sacred and significant time. Pilgrims from all over Japan are expected to visit during this rare occasion.

Walking through the quiet cedar forest and slowly climbing the ancient stone steps offers a peaceful moment away from everyday life — a chance to reflect and reconnect with yourself.

Why not take this once-in-12-years opportunity to visit the sacred Mt. Haguro?

For those who are not confident about climbing the full stone staircase, it is also possible to reach the summit by car (via the toll road) or by bus and visit the Sanjin Gosaiden Shrine directly.

You may also choose to walk up to the Five-Story Pagoda from the entrance of the approach, return to the base area, and then continue to the summit by car for worship.

Approximately 2 hours by car from our inn.