Feel Spiritually Refreshed At Japan's Three Sacred Mountains

Nearly 70% of the land in Japan is covered by lush forests and mountains. These mountains have been a source of inspiration and spiritual power since the earliest days; in fact, some of these mountains are still revered as sacred to this day.

There are three major sacred mountains in Japan that have been worshiped since time immemorial: Mt. Fuji, Mt. Tateyama and Mt. Hakusan.

Althougt it's not going to be an easy hike, by visiting these sacred spots you will not only feel physically but spiritually refreshed. These are great places to make your next destination in Japan. But before you start packing your bags, let's take a look at what they are like via Google Street View.

1. Mt. Fuji - the Tallest Mountain in Japan

Of course this mountain comes to mind first when we start talking about sacred mountains in Japan. Mt. Fuji is a symbol of Japan, and became internationally famous when it was recognized as a World Heritage site.

When you stand at the top of Japan, see the crater, look up at the sky, and feel yourself surrounded by the power of nature, you will feel just how small you are in universe. A sea of clouds below, the shining sun above you, and perpetual snow at your feet... There are no words to describe this amazing scenery.

Mt. Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, but it’s not very difficult to climb up. If you go there during summer, you don’t really need any heavy gear. The view from the summit is always exciting whether its your first or fifth climb.

The main location of Asama shrine, which has branches all over Japan, is situated here. Actually, the name “Asama” indicates that this is a shrine to the god of volcanoes. Did you know that you can get married at this shrine too? If you and your partner are avid climbers, why not get married at the summit of Mt. Fuji?

2. Mt. Hakusan: the Mountain of a Rich Water God

Mt. Hakusan is an active volcano and has been worshiped as the god of water because it is a source of Kuzuryū River, Tedori River, and Nagara River.

The trekking trails are well paved, so you can climb up safely. In this mountain, however, the weather changes quickly, so you better have the proper gear for that. As this mountain is rich in greenery, the plants there have been well researched, which is why there are lots of plants with the word "hakusan" in their name.

There are lodges on the trail and from there you can overlook the peaks of the Hakusan mountain range. You can not only enjoy the rich greenery on the ground but breathtaking mountain views far in front of you at the same time, which is a unique attraction of Mt. Hakusan trekking.

Shirayamahime Shrine, located at the base of the mountain, has okunomiya (*1) at the peak of Gozengamine. It’s a simple shrine but they have accommodations. This shrine is said to be home to the god of marriage too.

*1 Okunomiya: literally means 'shrine in the back', refers to the practice where a single shrine complex may have multiple shrines dedicated to different deities at it.

Mt. Tateyama: the Mountain of Spiritual Practices

Mt. Tateyama has been worshiped as “a place where the spirits of the dead come back.”

The mountain used to be where Buddhist monks underwent spiritual training but now is popular with tourists as well. There is a ropeway from Kurobe Dam, which makes the mountain even more accessible. And, known for its gorgeous views, Mikurigaike Pond combines a hot spring with this scenery, making it a popular sightseeing spot.

Mt. Tateyama is now well maintained as a tourist spot and has become quite safe to visit. At the end of winter, you can enjoy beautiful scenery like this surrounded by wild fresh nature. The magnificent landscape with harsh coldness is so overwhelming that you really come to appreciate just how small human beings are.

In the end

Did you enjoy our virtual trip to the three sacred mountains - Mt. Fuji, Mt. Hakusan, and Mt. Tateyama? There are things you can’t see through Google Street Map, so going to experience these mountains in person is a must for trekking fans.

Although these mountains are famous as tourist destinations, at the same time they have been worshiped as sanctuaries by the locals. When you visit, not only can you enjoy the physical experience, but also revel in the spiritual refreshment that this divine atmosphere brings.

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Japan's Three Sacred Mountains