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Introducing Dewa Sanzan
Dewa Sanzan is the collective title for three sacred peaks: Haguro-san, Gas-san and Yudono-san. The mountains have been worshipped for centuries by yamabushi and followers of the Shugendō sect. During the pilgrimage seasons, you can see white-clad pilgrims (equipped with wooden staff, sandals and straw hat) and the occasional yamabushi (equipped with conch shell, checked jacket and voluminous white pantaloons) stomping along mountain trails or sitting under icy waterfalls as part of severe ascetic exercises intended to train both body and spirit.
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Theoretically, if you hiked at a military pace and timed the buses perfectly you might be able to cover all three peaks in one day. However, this would leave you no time to enjoy the scenery, and the chances of missing a key bus connection are good. If you want to tackle all three mountains, it’s best to devote at least two days; book accommodation and stock up on maps at the Tsuruoka tourist office before setting off.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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