<Pilgrimage Experience Program>
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We've condensed the allure of the Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage into a 2-day experience, perfect for first-timers. In this program, you'll stay at a traditional pilgrim lodge (called a Shukubo) that has been passed down through generations. You’ll be led up Mt. Haguro by Yamabushi mountain ascetics, praying for the happiness. As you experience the lifestyle and values of the Yamabushi, you'll begin to see the mountains and nature in a new light. This program is ideal for those who want to go deeper than a tour, or anyone interested in the foundations of Japanese culture, beliefs, and customs. Enjoy this unique experience, only possible through this program, set against the backdrop of the sacred sites of the Yamabushi.
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Toge is the gateway village to Dewa Sanzan, a sacred site of Shugendo with a 1,400-year history. During the Edo period (1603-1867), it flourished as one of the three major sacred mountain of Shugendo, attracting worshippers from across Japan. Although Shugendo was banned during the Meiji period (1868-1912) and many Shugendo temples vanished, traditional ascetic practices and pilgrim lodgings continue to thrive here today.
"Sanro (参籠)" refers to the practice of secluding oneself in a shrine or lodge for prayer.
In this program, the Shukubo master or mountain ascetic will listen to your wishes and pray alongside you for two days. At the program's conclusion, you'll receive sacred talismans (o-fuda) that embody your shared prayers. This two-day experience encapsulates the essence of staying at a Shukubo.
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Munemasa Sanada / 真田宗正さん
After graduating from the Shinto Studies department at Kokugakuin University, he served for 10 years at the Dewa Sanzan Shrine, gaining experience at the shrines of Mt. Gassan, Mt. Haguro, and Mt. Yudono. He also oversaw the Autumn Peak ascetic training for Yamabushi for over 13 years. Currently, he operates the Sanada Enmeiin pilgrim lodge, which has a history dating back to the Jokyu era (1219-1222), and is a rare Hafuri (also known as a Shinto priest because he has reached ) with the distinguished rank of Meikai.
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At Sanada Enmeiin, Mr. Munemasa Sanada, a Shinto priest of the Dewa Sanzan Shrine, will convey your wishes to the Kami. The proprietress, Ms. Nagisa, will provide you with meals and tea that resonate with both your body and soul. At Sanada Enmeiin, which values taking time away from daily life for personal reflection, you can experience moments of physical and mental awareness while feeling the energy of this sacred land.
appearance
introspection
Time | Activity |
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15:15 | Arrival, Check-in |
Free time | |
(Explore the shukubo on your own, etc.) | |
18:00 | Dinner at Shukubo (Dewa Sanzan Shojin Ryori ascetic cuisine) |
19:00 | Night pilgrimage at Mt. Haguro: Night Program |
20:30 | End of activities / Overnight stay at shukubo |
Time | Activity |
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7:00 | Morning service (Prayer) |
7:30 | Breakfast |
Check-out | |
8:30 | Gathering |
9:00 | Mt. Haguro pilgrimage experience with Yamabushi guide |
Departure prayer at the Shukubo | |
Cedar avenue ~ Stone steps ~ Five-story pagoda ~ Mt. Haguro summit | |
12:00 | Worship at Dewa Sanzan Shrine Sanjin Gosaiden |
12:30 | Lunch at Saikan |
13:30 | Departure from summit *Return by jumbo taxi |
14:00 | Distribution of talismans and reflection at Shukubo |
15:00 | End of program |