At 414m (1358 ft), Mt. Haguro is a low-lying mountain that is by far the most accessible of the Dewa Sanzan both in terms of accessibility and hiking time. It is easily climbable by anyone in good health and also, has buses that can take you up and down from the peak for those wishing to skip the climb.

We will start our experience right in-front of the Zuishinmon Gate at the base of Mt. Haguro.

From here, we will stop along the trail to see the many landmarks along this trail and learn about the many Yamabushi rituals that have taken place for over a thousand years on this mountain. This includes the Five-story Pagoda of Mt. Haguro, which has been designated as a national treasure of Japan, that was built over 600 years ago. This pagoda is unique for its bare wood structure that stands in the middle of towering cedar trees instead of on temple grounds, as is usual in Japan.

As we continue up the mountain, we will pass through towering lines of cedar trees that are 300-600 years old and take in the silence and serenity of this mountain. During the summer and fall, there is also a teahouse mid-way up this trail where we can stop and take in the views of the Shonai Plains from its outlook.

Reaching the top of this mountain, we will visit the Sanjin Gosaiden Shrine, which enshrines all three of the Dewa Sanzan mountains and explore the temple grounds.

We will then make our way to Saikan, a temple restaurant first built in 1689 that now has lodging and meals available for visitors to Mt. Haguro. Here we will try Shojin Ryori, the ascetic cuisine of the Yamabushi monks that was developed as part of their training which could last for months as they isolated themselves in these mountains.

Following our meal we will make our way back down the mountain and finish the tour.