Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan refers to the collective name of three sacred mountains located in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan: Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono. The shrines situated atop these three sacred peaks are known as the Dewa Sanzan Shrines. Dewa Sanzan has been a famous site for mountain asceticism since ancient times, with a history of over 1,400 years since its establishment. Every year, numerous practitioners and tourists visit to pay their respects.

Each of the three mountains that make up Dewa Sanzan boasts its own unique features, attracting visitors from around the world with different kinds of charm. Mount Haguro, standing at an elevation of 1,984 meters, is the main peak of Dewa Sanzan and one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. It features beautiful natural landscapes including beech virgin forests and a variety of rare flora and fauna, and is also a well-known summer skiing destination. Mount Gassan, though just a small mountain peak with an elevation of about 414 meters, serves as the gateway to Mount Haguro and Mount Yudono. The mountain is home to important cultural properties and historic sites, such as the National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda, making it an internationally renowned treasure trove of cultural heritage. Mount Yudono is also referred to as the inner sanctuary of Dewa Sanzan. It is said that only those who have undergone the spiritual trials of Mount Haguro and Mount Gassan may reach the realm of enlightenment here.

Three Mountains of Dewa

Must-visit reason: Japan’s most famous site for mountain asceticism

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Yamagata Prefecture [Yamagata Prefecture]