🗺️ Mt. Haguro羽黒山

Mt. Haguro is a mountain with an elevation of 414 meters, located on the northwest side of the main peak of the Dewa Sanzan, "Mt. Gassan." Starting from the bus stop at "Suijinmon," it only takes a few minutes of walking along the mountain path to see a 29-meter tall five-story pagoda standing amidst the cedar forest. It is said that the pagoda was built by the Kanto warrior Taira no Kiyomori in the first year of the Tenkei era (938) and is one of the few Buddhist structures in Mt. Haguro that honors the belief in "Shinbutsu Shugo" (the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism). In 1966, it was designated as a national treasure. The stone steps leading from the pagoda to the summit consist of as many as 2,446 steps. Some sections of the path can be difficult to walk on, so it is recommended to wear suitable footwear. Upon reaching the summit, one can find the impressive Sangha Shrine, which features the largest thatched roof in the country. The current shrine was constructed in 1818 during the Bunsei era at a cost of 5,275 ryo (equivalent to over 500 million yen in today's currency). The striking vermilion shrine is characterized by its intricate and delicate carvings. The Dewa Sanzan refers to the three mountains of Mt. Gassan, Mt. Haguro, and Mt. Yudono. Since ancient times, pilgrimage to these three mountains has been regarded as a "journey of rebirth," symbolizing the pursuit of death and resurrection, and has become an object of faith for many people.

The sacred mountain of mountain worship rejuvenates the spirit. The five-story pagoda and the shrine for the three deities are must-see attractions. There are over two thousand stone steps, so remember to wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots. On the way back, you can take the bus departing from the mountaintop.