5 must-visit spots for sightseeing in Yamagata and Mt. Gassan!

Mt. Gassan, the main peak of the Dewasanzan, is located in the center of Yamagata Prefecture and is famous as a sacred site for mountain worship. This historic land is home to many other tourist spots as well.
Mt. Gassan is covered by a primeval beech forest, offering stunning views of nature through all four seasons. The abundance of mountain produce allows visitors to taste seasonal delicacies made with freshly harvested ingredients. Additionally, several hot spring resorts are located around Mt. Gassan, providing relaxation for pilgrims and tourists after their travels.
There are many places to visit, but here are 5 must-see spots that I highly recommend when touring Mt. Gassan!

1.Mount Gassan

Mount Gassan, with an elevation of 1,984 meters, is the highest peak of the "Three Mountains of Dewa" along with Mount Yudono and Mount Haguro, the latter being founded by Prince Hachiko. Mount Gassan is the main peak and an important site for mountain worship in the Oshu region. Located almost in the center of Yamagata Prefecture, the summit offers a breathtaking view, and on clear days, you can even see the Sea of Japan in the distance.

Mount Gassan is known for its high-altitude wetlands and alpine plants. Rare species such as the alpine plants Ozekouhone (Nymphaeaceae) and Usagigiku (Asteraceae), as well as unique animals like the stoat and rock wren, can be found here. It is designated as a natural conservation area and is a protected natural monument.

You can reach up to the 8th station by bus, making it accessible even for beginners or those who are not experienced in mountain climbing.

2.Gassan Shrine

Located at the summit of Mount Gassan (1,984 meters), Gassan Shrine has been a site for mountain worship, especially associated with the Shugendo faith. It remains a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination for many practitioners and visitors.

The history of Gassan Shrine dates back to 593, when Prince Hachiko, the third son of Emperor Sushun, founded Mount Gassan and established the shrine. From the Heian period until the separation of Shinto and Buddhism in the Meiji period, Mount Gassan was a center for Shugendo training. Even in the Edo period, the Three Mountains of Dewa continued to draw religious followers.

The famous poet Matsuo Basho, who wrote The Narrow Road to the Deep North, composed a haiku about Mount Gassan, "Clouds crumbling, how many peaks, the moon’s mountain."

Though Shugendo nearly disappeared with the Meiji separation of Shinto and Buddhism, efforts by surviving practitioners have preserved the tradition to this day.

The Gassan Shrine is particularly auspicious during the year of the Rabbit, when it is believed that visiting will bring extra blessings.

3.Gassan Ski Resort

Located at the 7th station of Mount Gassan (elevation 1,600 meters), this ski resort operates during the summer. The reason why a ski resort opens in summer is that the Gassan area experiences heavy snowfall, and it is closed during the winter. It opens in early April, and the closing date depends on the snowfall that year, but skiing is available until the end of July!

The ski slopes cover the entire mountain of Ubagadake, so there are no set courses. Besides skiing, you can enjoy many activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

You may wonder, "Skiing in summer?" but for ski enthusiasts, being able to ski in the summer makes this a popular tourist spot.

4.Michi-no-Eki Gassan

A "Michi-no-Eki" (roadside station) is a tourist facility where you can purchase local specialty products and enjoy delicious meals. However, "Michi-no-Eki Gassan," also known as "Gassan Asahi Museum Village," offers a variety of activities, including exploring Yamagata's history, nature, and sports experiences.

At "Soba-dokoro Daibonji," you can enjoy fragrant and flavorful soba made from buckwheat flour produced in the Asahi region. As souvenirs, you can buy high-quality Gassan wine made from grapes grown in the Asahi region, dry soba noodles, udon, and more.
The "Cultural Creation Center" introduces the history and culture of the region, including the ancient "Rokujyuri-goe Kaido," the Three Mountains of Dewa, and the Asahi region. At "Bonji-no-Kura," you can enjoy activities like bouldering in the sports experience area, or relax in the lounge and café.

A little farther away, at "Fureai Hiroba" in the ancient village, you can observe the ecology of beetles at the "Gassan Kabuto Mushi En" during summer or enjoy chestnut picking at the "Tourist Chestnut Orchard" in autumn.

This is a great place for families to spend a whole day enjoying various tourist activities and making plenty of memories. "Michi-no-Eki Gassan" is a must-visit spot!

5.Gassan Shizu Onsen

Located at the foot of Mount Gassan, this relatively new hot spring, which began flowing in the Heisei era, is a hidden gem. The spring's composition is sodium chloride (saltwater), with a strong salinity that deeply warms the body. It is said to have therapeutic effects for chronic skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, as well as for neuralgia, muscle pain, and joint pain.

At the foot of Mount Gassan, you'll find a primeval beech forest, providing an abundance of local mountain and river produce. The meals are made from locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the fresh, seasonal flavors.

There are around 12 inns, and some of them offer day-use baths. It is a charming onsen town where you can fully enjoy the changing seasons of Mount Gassan while soaking in the natural beauty.

◎ Summary

Mount Gassan offers a different face depending on the season. You can experience the strictness of Shugendo by climbing with a yamabushi (mountain ascetic), but you can also immerse yourself in nature and absorb its power.

Additionally, there are plenty of active tourism activities that are perfect for families with children.

Try enjoying the blessings of the land harvested from Mount Gassan and relax in the hot springs to refresh both your body and mind. The majestic nature will surely embrace you warmly.

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5 must-visit spots for sightseeing in Yamagata and Mt. Gassan!