Complete Guide to Getting to Yudonosan Shrine｜How to Book a Taxi and Important Tips

Yudonosan Shrine, the Inner Sanctuary of the Three Mountains of Dewa, is wrapped in a mystical atmosphere and known for the phrase “Speak not, hear not.” It is one of the most powerful spiritual spots in Tohoku. True to its mysterious nature, access is very limited and requires careful preparation in advance.

This article provides a detailed guide on how to book a taxi yourself to reach the Main Hall of Yudonosan Shrine from Watausagi, with a focus on the steps and important precautions.

Where is Yudonosan Shrine located?

Yudonosan Shrine is located in the mountainous area of Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, about an hour’s drive from Tsuruoka Station. Situated at an elevation of around 1,500 meters, it lies in a heavy snowfall zone and is closed annually from early November to late May due to winter conditions.

Visitation is only possible during the limited summer season (from June to mid-October), but even during this period, there is no public transportation available.

There is no public bus service (as of 2025).

In the past, buses operated between Tsuruoka Station and the Yudonosan pilgrims’ lodge, but service ended in **2022**. Currently, there are only three available options:

The “Kankō Liner,” a reservation-only service available on Sundays and public holidays.
Rental car
Car sharing
Taxi (※the main focus of this guide)

Use the Kankō Liner as your first option whenever possible.

Operating days: Sundays and public holidays only (from May to mid-October)
Fare: 4,500 yen one-way (zone-based fare)
Direct service from Tsuruoka Station to Yudonosan Senninzawa
Advance reservation required / Payment on board, cash only
The most tourist-friendly and relatively low-cost option
Reservation form is here.

However, since it operates only on Sundays and public holidays, **if you plan to visit Yudonosan on a weekday, you need to arrange your own transportation.**

Summary of important points when using a taxi

Estimated fare: around 16,000 to 20,000 yen one way
所要時間：約60分
Be sure to make a **reservation in advance**. It is especially difficult to get a taxi during holidays and summer vacation.
Some companies do not allow “waiting” or “pick-up” services at Yudonosan.
Making a **round-trip reservation is recommended**. If it’s one-way, you might not have transportation for the return trip.

After arriving at Yudonosan (with pilgrimage bus available)

After arriving at Yudonosan Senninzawa (rest house), you take a pilgrimage bus (200 yen one way / 400 yen round trip) to reach the shrine’s main hall.

Section: Yudonosan Rest House ⇄ Yudonosan Shrine Main Hall Duration: About 10 minutes (operates as needed) Notes: Cash only / Barefoot worship required / Some areas prohibit photography

FAQ

Q. Which taxi company do you recommend? → There are several companies in Tsuruoka City, but since their availability for early morning and mountain area service varies, you’ll need to call each company to check.

Q. I only speak English—can I make a reservation? → Please use the Japanese script with katakana pronunciation provided.

Q. Can I call a taxi on the day without a reservation? → The longer the ride, the harder it is to get a taxi without a reservation. Always book in advance.

summary

You must arrange all transportation to Yudonosan Shrine entirely on your own.
If you can go on Sundays or holidays, the Kankō Liner (reservation required, inexpensive) is the most convenient option.
Otherwise, you need to rent a car or reserve a taxi. Having information and preparation to make the reservation yourself is essential.
Make sure to clearly prepare what you need to say on the phone.

To safely and reliably reach the deepest part of the Three Mountains of Dewa, Yudonosan, may this guide be a helpful companion on your journey.

That’s all for today’s article. Since it was created for foreign guests, it might have been a bit boring for those not interested💦 I appreciate your understanding😊

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