Mt. Chokai
Map
Mt. Chokai is a sacred mountain 2,236 m high on the border of Yamagata and Akita prefectures, and the highest peak in Yamagata Prefecture. Because of its beautiful shape it is also called 'Dewa Fuji,' and it has long been revered as the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province. The main shrine of Chokaisan Omonoimi Shrine stands at the summit, and the two subsidiary shrines Fukura Kuchinomiya and Warabioka Kuchinomiya stand at the foot of the mountain.
Sacred Site Info
- Type
- Sacred mountain
- Legend
- Chokaisan Omonoimi Jinja, enshrined at the summit, is said to have been founded in remote antiquity and has been revered as the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province. In the Edo period, worship associations (toha-ko) were formed, and many believers are said to have visited it as a training ground for Shugendo.
- Element
- Mountain
History & Origins
Chokaisan Omonoimi Shrine is said to have been founded in remote antiquity, and as the Ichinomiya of Dewa Province it received reverence from successive imperial courts and warriors. In the mid-Edo period pilgrimage associations were formed, and it flourished as a training ground of Shugendo. As the name 'Dewa Fuji' suggests, its majestic form can be seen from the Shonai Plain and the coast of the Sea of Japan.
Highlights
From the summit, grand views of the Sea of Japan and the Shonai Plain spread out. The main shrine of Omonoimi Shrine (at the summit) and Ohama Shrine (near the 7th station) are the core of the faith. Alpine plants are also abundant, and species endemic to Mt. Chokai, such as Chokai fusuma, can be seen.
Visitor Guide
The main trailheads include Hokodate (Akita side), Yashima-guchi, and Fukura-guchi (Yamagata side). Hokodate can be reached from JR Uetsu Main Line Kisakata Station by the Chokai Blue Liner. The mountain hut and the main shrine of Omonoimi Shrine are located at Omuro (around 2,200 m) near the summit.
Best Season
The climbing season is mainly July to September. In June, when snow remains, snowfield walking can also be enjoyed. The combination of autumn grass colors and the sunset sinking into the Sea of Japan is also splendid.
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