Rebirth Journey: The National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda & Mt. Haguro
Visiting Dewa Sanzan — Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono — has long been known in Japan as a "journey of rebirth." By experiencing the nature, history, and culture of these sacred mountains, travelers have come here for centuries to reset the mind and body and find renewal and strength for the road ahead.
This tour takes you to Mt. Haguro, the gateway to that journey of rebirth: the cedar-lined stone steps, the National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda, and the Sanjin Gosaiden shrine at the summit. A local, English-speaking guide will show you the deep connection between Japan's ancient nature worship and faith — a connection that continues to draw visitors from Japan and abroad.
Highlights
- Spacious, comfortable travel in an executive minivan (Toyota Alphard or equivalent)
- A private tour (never shared with other travelers), accompanied throughout by a local, English-speaking guide
- Direct transfer from your hotel to each destination
- Experience the highlights of Mt. Haguro: the National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda, the cedar-lined stone steps, and the Sanjin Gosaiden shrine
- Visit sites listed in the Michelin Green Guide Japon (Mt. Haguro's cedar avenue ★★★, Sanjin Gosaiden ★★, and more)
- Because this is a private tour, extending your time or adding extra stops is easy — just ask your guide
Itinerary
- 1
Depart from Kameya Hotel — around 9:00 or 13:00
Departure can also be arranged from Tsuruoka Station or Shonai Airport.
- 2
Zuishinmon Gate
Zuishinmon Gate marks the start of the journey of rebirth. From here, the stone steps lined with cedar trees begin.
- 3
National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda
This five-story pagoda stands along the cedar-lined path. The current pagoda was rebuilt approximately 600 years ago and is designated as a National Treasure. To reach the summit, you will return to Zuishinmon Gate and be guided there by car — or, if you choose to walk, the climb takes about 50 minutes up steep stone steps.
- 4
Mt. Haguro Summit: Sanjin Gosaiden
This shrine enshrines the deities of the three mountains of Dewa Sanzan: Mt. Haguro, Mt. Gassan, and Mt. Yudono. On clear days, you can see Mt. Gassan in the distance.
- 5
Arrive at Kameya Hotel — around 12:30 or 16:30
Drop-off can also be arranged at Tsuruoka Station or Shonai Airport.
Total duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Please contact us if you would prefer a different departure time.
Things to know
- Eligibility: this tour is available exclusively to guests staying at KAMEYA HOTEL. If you are not staying with us, we can arrange a separate plan at a different rate — please contact us by email.
- Vehicle: this plan uses a licensed, chauffeured car (in addition to your English-speaking guide), for travelers who prefer a fully professional driving service. If you would like a more affordable option where your guide drives a rental car, see our Guide-Driven Rental Car plan.
- The stone steps from Zuishinmon Gate to the summit total 2,446 steps. Please consider your fitness level before choosing to walk the full route.
- Meals are not included but can be arranged for an additional fee — please contact us using the inquiry form.
- In case of heavy rain, typhoon, snowfall, or other conditions that make safe travel difficult, the itinerary may be changed. We will contact you in advance.
- Before booking, please also review the Travel Information, the Terms & Conditions and Contract Documents, the Standard Travel Agency Terms, and the Privacy Policy.
