Mt. Omine (Sanjogatake)

Map

History & Origins

At the end of the 7th century, during the Hakuho era, En no Ozunu, regarded as the founder of Shugendo, is said to have perceived Zao Gongen and built the Zao-do hall. The tradition of banning women, continuing since the early Heian period, has been observed for more than 1,300 years to the present. The Omine Okugake Michi is a Shugendo training route running from Yoshino to Kumano and is an important component of the World Heritage Site.

Highlights

Visitors can stay at the five shukubo (temple lodgings) on the mountain and undergo training experiences. Along the climbing trail there are training sites such as Nishi no Nozoki, and Dorogawa Onsen at the foot of the mountain thrives as a temple town lined with shukubo and inns. The Nyonin Kekkai Gate (boundary gate for women) is set up near Omine Ohashi Bridge.

Visitor Guide

The climbing season runs each year from the Togoshiki opening ceremony on May 3 to the Tojishiki closing ceremony on September 23. Because of the ban on women, women are not permitted to enter the mountain. Access from Dorogawa Onsen at the foot of the mountain to the trailhead is on foot or by bus. The climb requires physical strength and suitable equipment.

Best Season

The fresh greenery season of May to June and the cool period in September are best. The rainy season often brings bad weather, so take care.

Blessings

Travel Plan

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