Yudonosan Shrine is the center of mountain worship, and this place, with its mysterious and solemn atmosphere, has a special presence as one of the three Dewa Mountains, and has been worshiped by many people since ancient times. Ta. A visit to Yudonosan Shrine will provide you with a unique experience where nature and faith intertwine. In this article, we will introduce recommended spots in and around Yudonosan Shrine.
1. Yudonosan Hongu
At the main shrine of Yudonosan Shrine, there is a rule that says ``Don't talk'' and ``Don't listen.'' There is a rule that you must not divulge what you see or hear inside. I will not discuss the sacred objects and rituals in detail here.
However, this object of worship can be touched directly, allowing worshipers to feel its warmth and mysterious energy.
There are also special etiquettes when visiting Mt. Yudono. First, go to the entrance and purify your mind before proceeding to the sacred place. The atmosphere at the shrine is solemn, and photography is prohibited, preserving the atmosphere of a quiet place of prayer. Many worshipers feel the sacred energy here and experience a purification of their mind and body.
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2. Yudonosan Mountain Trail
The path to Yudonosan Shrine is also considered important as part of the faith. The mountain trail to Mt. Yudonosan, a place of mountain worship, has been followed by ascetics since ancient times as a path for ascetic training. The mountain path is lush with greenery, and the sound of the wind passing through the trees and the chirping of birds will soothe your soul. Rather than just climbing the mountain, visitors can gain a sense of spiritual purification and rebirth by walking quietly and interacting with nature.
3. Mt. Yudonosan Mountain Opening Festival
The ``Yudonosan Mountain Founding Festival'', held on July 1st every year, is an important ritual as one of the beliefs of Yudonosan Shrine. On this day, many worshipers gather to perform sacred ceremonies and traditional dances. Especially for those who are interested in mountain worship, this mountain opening festival will be a valuable experience. The ancient rituals and festivals that fuse local cultures further deepen the mystical charm of Mt. Yudonosan. Through the festival, you can reaffirm your gratitude towards nature and the gods.
4. Mt.Yudonosan Summit Observation Deck
From the observation deck at the top of Mt. Yudonosan, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Shonai Plain, Mt. Chokai, Mt. Gassan, and more. In particular, the autumn leaves and winter snowy scenery are breathtakingly beautiful. You can fully enjoy the beauty of nature while resting your body after visiting shrines and climbing mountains. This observatory is a place where you can interact with the rich nature of Mt. Yudonosan, and is the perfect place to refresh your mind and body.
5. Dainichibo Sokushinbutsu
From here, we will introduce the surrounding spots.
An inseparable entity from Mt. Yudonosan faith is the Sokushinbutsu. At Dainichibo, the bodies of monks who became Sokushinbutsu after undergoing rigorous training are enshrined. Based on the teachings of Buddhism, sokushinbutsu is a sacred entity that is part of the training to become a Buddha by dedicating one's own body. By visiting Dainichibo, you will be able to feel the history of the Yudonosan faith and the depth of the faith of its practitioners. By witnessing Sokushinbutsu, even those of us living in modern times have the opportunity to reconsider our beliefs and ways of life.
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6. Tamamumata multi-story private house (former Endo family)
Tamugimata Multi-story Minka (formerly the Endo Family) is a historical building in Tsuruoka City that has remained from the Edo period. This multi-story minka has been preserved as a valuable cultural heritage that provides visitors with an insight into rural life and building techniques of the time. There are many exhibits of old tools that were actually used in this region in the historical minka, offering a glimpse into the culture of this area.
For more information, click here.
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nanakamado tei
Nanakamado-tei, located near Mt. Yudonosan, serves tempura and soba noodles made with local ingredients, and its dishes using mountain produce and seasonal vegetables are especially popular among visitors.
For more information, click here.
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8. Direct-from-the-farm Asahi Gu
``Farm Direct Asahi Gu'' is a direct sales store that sells fresh local produce. In addition to fresh vegetables and fruits, local specialty products and processed foods are also sold here. You can stop by between visiting Yudonoyama Shrine or trekking and pick up some delicious ingredients from the Shonai region.
For more information, click here.
9. Kushibiki Onsen Yu Town
Kushibiki Onsen Yu Town is the perfect place to relax after visiting Yudonosan Shrine. The spacious hot spring facility is a popular spot visited by locals. The spring quality is good and is effective for recovering from fatigue and refreshing. You can heal the fatigue of your trip at the hot springs.
For more information, click here.
10. Farm-direct aguri
Direct-from-the-farm agri is famous as a fruit village, and is very popular among locals because you can buy locally grown fresh fruit at a low price.
In addition, locally grown rice, vegetables, and seasonal wild vegetables are also available at the store.
You can pick a variety of fruits from nearby fruit farms.
Apples, pears, grapes, peaches, cherries, etc. vary depending on the season, so be sure to check before going!
For more information, click here.
summary
Yudonosan Shrine and its surrounding area are home to many attractive spots where nature and faith intersect. A trip that purifies the soul in a sacred place, touches the surrounding beautiful nature, and feels the history and faith is sure to leave a deep impression on those who visit.
If you are in the area, please visit these spots and experience the mysterious world of Mt. Yudonosan.
Guest House Watausagi is a popular inn for guests who like temples, shrines, and power spots.
This guesthouse is located right between Mt. Hagurosan, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudonosan, which are Dewa Sanzan Shrines.
People who are interested in the nature, history, and beliefs of Dewa Sanzan gather from all over the country and around the world.
I hope you will enjoy visiting Dewa Sanzan Shrine using Guest House Watausagi as your base 😊
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