Sacred Summits: A Spiritual Pilgrimage Through Japan’s Mountain Sanctuaries
Sacred Summits: A Spiritual Pilgrimage Through Japan’s Mountain Sanctuaries
Duration
5 days
Ideal time to visit
March–April
Price guide
From$XXXXX
Theme
mountain worship
Region
Tokyo, Yamagata
This tour is an exploration of Japan’s ancient mountain worship and deep connection with nature. It begins near Tokyo at Mt. Mitake in Ome City, moving on to the mystical atmosphere of the Dewa Sanzan. By staying in temple lodgings and participating in morning services, participants will experience a part of Japanese Buddhist practices, immerse themselves in nature through meditation and hiking, and find both spiritual purification and self-discovery. This journey delves deep into the stories woven by nature and history, offering an unforgettable experience for all who partake.
Tour highlights
- Experience the tranquil beauty of Mount Mitake, including a traditional welcoming ceremony and vegetarian cuisine at a local mountain lodge.
- Participate in morning prayers and a guided meditation session amidst the serene landscapes of Mount Mitake.
- Walk the ancient cedar-lined paths to the historic five-story pagoda, learning about Yamabushi practices.
- Explore the panoramic views and rich natural beauty of Mount Gassan, immersing in the mountain’s spiritual essence.
- Engage in unique purification rituals at Mount Yudono, a crucial part of the Dewa Sanzan spiritual journey.
- Conclude the journey with reflections on personal growth and spiritual insights, sharing experiences as you return to Tokyo.
Itinerary in detail
Depart from central Tokyo to Ome City. Explore the old town and savor a local cuisine lunch before ascending Mt. Mitake via cable car. Enjoy a welcoming ceremony by an Oshi and dine on traditional vegetarian cuisine at a mountain lodge.
After visiting Musashi-Mitake Shrine, we will climb up to Okuno-in (inner sanctuary). This climb is the highlight of this tour. In mountain worship, we face ourselves while feeling the energy of the mountain, and aim to be reborn as a new person through the climb. The hike will be different from ordinary hiking, as you will actually walk through the former training grounds and think about the ancient practitioners of the faith. The uphill hike to Okuno-in will be the ascetic practice. After visiting Okuno-in, you will lighten up a bit and gradually return to the mundane world.
Travel to Mt. Haguro and begin the pilgrimage, visiting the iconic five-story pagoda and walking paths lined with ancient cedars. Learn about Yamabushi practices and conclude the day with a local cuisine dinner.
Hike up Mt. Gassan, experiencing its natural beauty and panoramic views. Continue to Mt. Yudono, participating in purification rituals and experiencing the spiritual culmination of the Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage.
Engage in morning rituals of purification at Mt. Yudono. Reflect on the spiritual journey across Dewa Sanzan before returning to Tokyo, sharing experiences and insights gained during the pilgrimage.
YOUR GUIDE : TATSUYA
Tatsuya was born in Akiruno City. Influenced by his grandfather, who was the president of a hunting club in Akiruno City, he developed an interest in the natural environment at an early age. After starting his own business as a video creator, he became the leader of a team of instructors for an exploratory nature study program, which has grown to a business of 20,000 people per year. He has won competitions in such diverse activities as karate, surfing, and fishing, and is highly regarded for his skill and leadership as a guide.
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