Coast-to-Coast Pilgrimage: Walk, Savor, and Connect

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Fishing

Yamabushi

Fishing

Matsushima, one of the three scenic spots of Japan



 

Embark on a journey of rebirth in Japan’s deep north.

Travelling from the Japan Sea to the Pacific Ocean, journey through untouched nature along three different pilgrimage routes, including the three holy mountains of Dewa and the Michinoku coastal trail. 
Each day meet inspirational local people, such as farmers, chefs, fishermen and yamabushi mountain priests, and hear how they spend their lives reaping the rewards of nature while respecting its ferocity.

Walk through the landscape, savor local tastes and connect with the people and culture of Tohoku.

Date

Schedule

Accommodation

Day 1

Arrive in Yamagata
and spend the afternoon with a local farming family in Tsuruoka.
Ryokan in Yunohama Onsen
Day 2

Travel to Dewa Sanzan and climb the 2,446 steps to the peak of Mount Haguro.
Stay overnight at a pilgrim’s lodging and enjoy Buddhist shojin-ryori cuisine.

Pilgrim lodge at Mt. Haguro
Day 3
Hike up Mount Gassan and across the range to Mount Yudono, the second and third of the Dewa Sanzanpeaks.

Ryokan in
Hijiori Onsen
Day 4

Follow in the footsteps of Matsuo Basho and cross the Natagiri kogen mountain pass.
Relax in the hot spring waters of Naruko Onsen.
Ryokan in
Naruko Onsen
Day 5

Head to the Pacific coast to visit local oyster farms before walking along the Michinoku coastal trail.
Onsen Hotel in Kesennuma
Day 6
Reflect on your journey from coast-to-coast by participating in kiriko,
a traditional craft of making spiritual Shinto offerings.
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