Lore and Legends: Stories of the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamagata
Every peak in Yamagata holds a deep cultural legacy, from ancient Shugendo strongholds and castle ruins to historic trade routes and active volcanoes. These stories document the unique spiritual and historical identity of the 100 Famous Mountains, preserving the “living archive” of Japan’s mountain ascetic traditions.
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The Heavenly Haven of Haguro-san in Yamagata Prefecture
Haguro-san, a prominent peak in Yamagata’s Dewa Sanzan, serves as a spiritual centre for centuries, attracting pilgrims, hikers, and history…
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The Abandoned Ski Field of Tsuchiyu-Yama in Tozawa-Mura
I have a special affinity for the Mogami River. The first taste of the cherry-loving Yamagata prefecture for most of…
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Why You See This Mountain Name Everywhere in Japan
The Japanese affinity for mountains stretches much further than their (valid, mind you) infatuation with Fuji-san. I mean, just look…
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Discover the Stunning Sakura Views at Arakura-yama
While it’s no Yoshino, Arakura-yama sure offers some of the best mountain Sakura (cherry blossom) views in Japan. The paths…
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Takadate-yama: Locals Love This Special Mountain, and for Good Reason
Takadate-yama’s Hotoria Nature Centre and the Ramsar Site Adjacent the Shimoike lake at the base of Takadate-yama is the Hotoria…
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From Osaka Castle to Yamagata: How a Hostage Crisis Built Japan’s Best Hiking Trails
There’s a certain romance about purposely taking the slow route; reading the book rather than watching the movie, taking the…
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How NOT to climb a mountain in winter
Some background: This winter, I climbed three mountains here in Yamagata, north Japan. One in particular, Shirotaro-yama, was an especially…
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Hokari-Yama: Mother. Hunter. Mountain.
What makes Hokari-yama ‘Mother Hunter Mountain’? Of all the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamagata, Hokari-yama has probably the weirdest name;…
100 Famous Mountains of Yamagata Project
These stories are part of the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamagata project. Get updates with The Kiwi Yamabushi Newsletter.