Yudonosan Shrine

Yudono Mountain Shrine is a shrine located in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, situated in the mountainous region of Yudono Mountain. This mountain is known as a training ground for Shugendo, and is said to be the final destination for yamabushi who have trained at Mt. Gassan and Mt. Haguro. The main shrine of Yudono Mountain Shrine is known for its strict rules. Not only is photography prohibited, but the words "Do not speak, do not listen" are conveyed, and even speaking about what goes on inside is forbidden. This helps to preserve the secrets of the shrine's interior and creates a mysterious atmosphere. The grounds are a sacred place separated from the mundane world, and visitors are required to remove their shoes. The approach is a mixture of earth and stones, and walking barefoot may allow you to directly feel the power of the mountain's land. Yudono Mountain Shrine has become a place visited by many people as the center of Shugendo faith. Due to its mystical atmosphere and reputation as a good power spot, many people visit seeking purification of mind and body or the fulfillment of their wishes!

At Yudono-san Shrine, there is no main shrine building, and worship is conducted by paying respects to the sacred rock that springs hot water, which is the object of worship. When visiting, it's necessary to first receive a purification ritual. The purification ritual is performed by Shinto priests or shrine maidens, with the aim of purifying the worshipper and removing any negative energy. After receiving the purification ritual, the worshipper is finally led to the location where they can see the object of worship. The giant brownish rock is considered a sacred presence, and worshippers are expected to pay their respects with reverence. Worship at Yudono-san Shrine is conducted in a solemn atmosphere, allowing for a mystical experience. Worshippers receive the purification ritual with devout hearts, and it's common to offer gratitude and wishes to the sacred rock. This form of worship is known as a unique feature of Yudono-san Shrine!

Yudono-san Shrine is known as "Love Mountain" and is a popular matchmaking spot. The "Love Mountain Charm," which can only be obtained at Yudono-san, is particularly popular among women. The charm is a talisman that has been prayed over with wishes for matchmaking and love fulfillment, and it's believed to grant wishes related to love by borrowing the power of the shrine's deity and power spot. Visitors to Yudono-san can obtain the "Love Mountain Charm" with wishes related to love and marriage. The charm can be worn or given to loved ones as a charm for love and matchmaking. The popularity of Yudono-san Shrine as a matchmaking spot is one of the reasons why many visitors come. Many people entrust their wishes related to love and marriage to the solemn atmosphere and sacred power of Yudono-san.

The Dewa Sanzan History Museum, located near Yudonosan Shrine, houses materials that introduce the history and culture of Dewa Sanzan. The museum was established as a treasure hall for Dewa Sanzan Shrine in 1915, registered as a museum under the Museum Act in 1952, and renamed the Dewa Sanzan History Museum in 1970. The museum displays important cultural properties such as 190 copper mirrors and copper vermilion lantern poles unearthed from Kyoike Pond. It also houses numerous excellent items befitting the sacred mountains of Shugendo, such as Buddhist statues and swords with the name Tsukiyama. Visitors can experience the history and culture of Dewa Sanzan through the museum. The exhibition content closely related to Mount Haguro, the sacred mountain of Yudonosan, is interesting and will help you understand the religious background and depth of faith in this area. The Dewa Sanzan History Museum is a must-visit place when visiting Yudonosan Shrine!

Located at the foot of the first slope of the Hagurosan Shrine Road near Yudonoyama Shrine, the Goju-no-to Pagoda stands among a cedar-lined path. This tower is said to be the oldest in the Tohoku Hokkaido region and was built by Taira no Masakado. The current tower was rebuilt about 600 years ago and is a three-bay, five-story kaki-kake-sugi-zukuri structure standing at 29 meters tall. It was designated as a national treasure in 1966. Around this beautiful five-story pagoda is a giant cedar tree called Jijisugi, which is over 1,000 years old. The tree has a circumference of about 10 meters and its powerful presence is captivating. The Goju-no-to Pagoda is a building that combines historical value and beauty, and is loved by many people. Its majestic presence gives visitors to Yudonoyama Shrine and tourists a sense of tranquility and grandeur!