Dewa Sanzan

The pilgrimage to Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono, known collectively as Dewa Sanzan, follows a route representing the cycle of death and rebirth in Shugendo, an ascetic tradition blending Buddhism and Shinto. The three mountains are accessible for full pilgrimage only between July and mid-September due to severe weather. Mt. Gassan in particular is prone to strong winds and deep snowpack that lingers into summer. Gassan Visitor Center provides live trail camera feeds for pre-departure weather checks. Shukubo pilgrim lodgings have hosted travelers along this route for centuries. Hikers should carry bear bells, as Asiatic black bears inhabit the mountains.