Rediscover your inner peace with the Yamabushi Mountain Priests. Learn to become one with nature under the guidance of Dewa Sanzan. Soaring above the tree line of the Bandai-Asahi National Park sits the three mountains of Dewa. These mountains have been hosting generations of priests who are known as Yamabushi Mountain Priests. These priests practice the ancient belief of Shugendo, an intriguing mountain faith that has combined the beliefs of Shinto, Buddhism, and native Japanese animism.
What makes this belief special is that these Priests strive to connect with nature through the mind, body, and spirit. We could all learn something from the Yamabushi Mountain Priests. Good thing that they provide guided tours and you can even tag along in the ritual. So, embark on a journey with us to rediscover the treasure trove that is your soul in the Bandai-Asahi National Park.
What To Expect from the Yamabushi Mountain Priests
For the first time, you can join the Yamabushi and encounter their practices, rituals, and belief systems first-hand! However, getting there is not the easiest of tasks. Because the rituals take place high in the mountains, you would need to get a taxi to the Dewa mountains. You could also hitch-hike but I strongly advise you to scope out the driver thoroughly before getting into their car and accepting the lift.
The Yamabushi Mountain Priests experience is open to anyone willing to go through the 8-day training. The ritual begins with an hour’s walk through the village in full attire. Then the brigade starts to ascend into the mountaintops by climbing 2400 stairs. Their stark white robes contrast beautifully with the dark forest. You can book a 3-day Yamabushi Mountain Priests experience with Wondertrunk & Co or The Hidden Japan.
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Where to Stay for the Yamabushi Mountain Priests Experience
For accommodation on the Dewa Sanza, the Shukubo pilgrim lodges are the perfect option. They are nothing like hotels or traditional Ryokan Inns, nor are they anything like a Buddhist temple or a Shinto shrine, yet they have all of these elements. The primary function is to support pilgrims. Shukubo has everything you need for a spiritual rebirth on the Dewa Sanzan including Sendatsu guides, Shiroshozoku white garments, and Shojin Ryori ascetic cuisine. All Shukubo’s have an altar for worshipp and all are managed by Yamabushi. This is so that they can bless you upon entering the facility after your journey in the mountains.
The rooms are mostly fitted to the Japanese tatami style. Thus, snoozing the night away on a futon on the floor can be expected. Every room should have modern amenities such as WiFi and television. Shukubos are not Shukubos without a bathhouse, here you could ease your pains and aches all the while relaxing and soaking up the Japanese fairytale. You can stay in Shukubo Daishinbo, Daishobo, Sankoin, and Hashimotobo during your Yamabushi Mountain Priest experience!
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Hiking like the Yamabushi Mountain Priests
When you stay in The Shukubo, you have great access to Mount Gassan. Staying in a Shukudu allows you to experience the ancient Japanese belief of Shugendo fully, but you can also embark on all three of the Dewa Sanzan hiking trails! Because you are already staying on Mount Haguro, the Five-Story Pagoda is easily accessible. So too is the Dewa Sanzan Shrine which provides access to the Flower – and Hassaku Festival. Moreover, you are in a great location for observing the sunset-coloured autumn leaves of the Dewa Sanzan.
If you are making use of public transport, just take the bus up to Mount Gassan and hike to the top. Then, hike down along Mount Yudono where another bus can take you back to Mount Haguro. If you have your transport, don’t bother with it. Take a bus because the routes could be confusing. Hiking these routes could last between two to three days, and is only hikeable between July and mid-October. So be sure to plan your hike right!
If you enjoy this article, be sure to read about exploring the magical UNESCO Site of Shirakawago in Japan.
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough!
Since ancient times, the Japanese have regarded mountains as an abode to the gods, a sacred location holding all of life’s secrets. Those who ventured into their domain came back feeling refreshed and revitalised. Every year, more brave faith seekers ventured into the mountainous arena, and left feeling great like they had been ‘reborn’. So, why don’t you try it, it’s not like you can lose anything. In my opinion, you can only gain in this situation.
Your visit to Dewa Sanzan will not only give you the opportunity to support Yamabushi culture but the environmental stability of the region as well. The word Yamabushi means ‘one who lies down in the mountains, who makes the wilderness his home. I think we could all use an intimate escape into the mountains to unearth our souls once more and strive for peace every day that follows thereafter. So, shall we?
