Overview
Dewa Shrine stands atop Mount Haguro in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture. Together with Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono it forms the Dewa Sanzan, and at 414 meters it is the lowest of the three peaks. Because of this it is the only one open year-round, making it the gateway to the whole pilgrimage and the most important of the three shrines.
Highlights
- ●The Sanjin Gosaiden hall that enshrines all three mountain deities
- ●A stone stairway of 2,446 steps lined with ancient cedars
- ●The five-storied pagoda designated a National Treasure
- ●The venerable old cedar known as Jijisugi
History
The shrine enshrines the deities Ideha-no-kami and Ukanomitama, and it appears in the Heian-era Engishiki register as an official shrine (shikinaisha). For centuries Mount Haguro has been a center of Shugendo mountain asceticism, and the buildings scattered across the slope trace the paths of generations of pilgrims. For detailed history and events, please check official sources.
Access
The shrine sits on Mount Haguro in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture. From the Zuishinmon gate at the foot of the mountain, visitors climb on foot, while a toll road also runs close to the summit for those coming by car. Confirm public transport, parking and opening hours through official information.
Best season
As the only one of the three mountains reachable all year, Haguro rewards every season. Fresh green early summer, when light filters through the cedars, and the coloring foliage of autumn are especially lovely, and the snow-clad winter is solemn. In winter the steps can freeze, so come well prepared.
Map
38.7026, 139.9813 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Begin at the Zuishinmon gate at the mountain foot
- 2View the pagoda and Jijisugi among the cedars
- 3Climb the 2,446 stone steps toward the summit
- 4Pray at the Sanjin Gosaiden and set off around Dewa Sanzan
Did you know?
💡 The path to the summit climbs 2,446 stone steps through cedars several hundred years old. Along the way you pass the ancient cedar known as Jijisugi and the five-storied pagoda, which is designated a National Treasure.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!