The factory itself needs a prior reservation (form) to be visited (for free), but the shop is still a good stop to make with its huge variety of tsukemono (Japanese pickled/marinated vegetables).
Honcho has been in business for over 100 years in Oyama, Tsuruoka. Since its founding, it has remained committed to using vegetables grown locally in Yamagata, along with sake lees sourced from the Shonai region. Guided by its company motto—“Making the most of Shonai’s natural bounty to enrich food culture for all”—Honcho has continued to produce pickles using the same traditional methods passed down through generations. Tsukemono are a very important part of Tsuruoka’s gastronomy, counting as one of the city’s many methods of “food preservation” (hozonshoku 保存食) that helped the people feed on nutritious food during the harsh winters.
By continuing to use local vegetables, it aims to support and promote regional agriculture. At the same time, it is also exploring new forms of pickles that go beyond conventional boundaries, a reflect of Tsuruoka’s UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy title.
How to visit
Location: 1-7-7 Ōyama, Tsuruoka City Phone: +81235-33-2023 Access: 20 minutes by bus from Tsuruoka Station toward Yunohama Get off at “Oyama Shonaiginkomae” and walk 10 minutes Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Reservation required) Closed: Open year-round (No holidays) Fee: Free of charge Official Website:http://www.k-honcho.co.jp/
Saké, Pickles, Flowers & Birds : An idea of a day-trip to Oyama (surburb of Tsuruoka)
One reason some travelers find Tsuruoka a bit confusing is that the city encompasses a wide area with many outlying neighborhoods (or “suburbs”) and former villages. As shown on the map above, Tsuruoka is divided into six administrative districts, each containing various suburban areas—some of which are still referred to as “villages” in English. Oyama falls within the “Central Tsuruoka” district, although its location isn’t exactly central, as you can see. While not technically in Oyama, several of Tsuruoka’s main tourist attractions are located nearby—such as Zenpoji Temple and, along the coast, the Kamo Aquarium—both just an 8-minute drive away.
Oyama can be reached by bus with the bus bound for Yunohama Onsen via Kamo Aquarium (bus timetable) OR the bus bound for Yunohama Onsen via Zenpoji Temple (bus timetable). They are not the same, don’t mistake them!
So, once you’re there, what’s to do in Oyama?
1. The Honcho Pickles factory 本長
While the factory itself needs a prior reservation (form) to be visited (for free), the shop is still a good stop to make with its huge variety of tsukemono (Japanese pickled/marinated vegetables).
Honcho has been in business for over 100 years in Oyama, Tsuruoka. Since its founding, it has remained committed to using vegetables grown locally in Yamagata, along with sake lees sourced from the Shonai region. Guided by its company motto—“Making the most of Shonai’s natural bounty to enrich food culture for all”—Honcho has continued to produce pickles using the same traditional methods passed down through generations. Tsukemono are a very important part of Tsuruoka’s gastronomy, counting as one of the city’s many methods of “food preservation” (hozonshoku 保存食) that helped the people feed on nutritious food during the harsh winters.
By continuing to use local vegetables, it aims to support and promote regional agriculture. At the same time, it is also exploring new forms of pickles that go beyond conventional boundaries, a reflect of Tsuruoka’s UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy title.
Our recommendation?
Minden eggplants (small, round local eggplants) pickled in karashi (Japanese mustard), a dish called “minden nasu no karashi-zuke” “民田茄子の辛子漬”. They are very spicy, but once you acquire the taste, those little eggplants make the perfect appetizers to accompany your meals. Appreciate them with some Chardonnay-type of white wine to counterbalance the mustard’s vivid spiciness with the wine’s soft tanginess, or pair them with some creamy, round-taste junmai sake (pure-rice non polished). Those powerful little eggplants will be something you’ll crave over and over again.
How to visit
Upon reservation at +81235-33-2023 (Japanese only). Open from 8:30 to 16:30
Bus stop name nearby: Oyama Shogin Mae 大山荘銀前 (bus timetable)
2. Watarai’s sake brewery and their sake museum: Dewa no Yuki Shiryokan 出羽ノ雪酒造資料館
In 1669, the Oyama domain became tenryo (shogunate-controlled land). Around that time, there were as many as 40 sake breweries operating in the area. Historical documents from the period remain, recording the names of the brewery owners and the amount of sake they produced (measured in the traditional koku unit).
Oyama was home to a unique guild of sake brewers known as the Ōyama Tōji. These master brewers not only traveled to work at breweries across the Tohoku region, but also attracted young apprentices from sake-producing families in Tohoku and Echigo (present-day Niigata), who came to train in Ōyama.
While it is common in many regions for farmers to work as seasonal brewers during the winter months, Oyama was different. Until around the early Showa period (1920’s, 1930’s), the sake industry here was supported mainly by craftsmen—carpenters, plasterers, and others—whose own work slowed during the winter season.
Oyama itself was like a town of artisans, with neighborhoods such as coppersmiths, woodworkers, carpenters, blacksmiths, and dyers. These craftsmen lived and worked in close-knit communities, constantly sharing knowledge, refining their techniques, and taking pride in their work. This diligent and cooperative spirit is said to have been the foundation of Oyama’s rich sake-brewing tradition.
Visit the Dewa No Yuki Museum and have a taste at the end of the experience of a selection of three sakes picked by the shop’s worker.
Our recommendation?
While the museum features QR codes that display English information on your cellphone (connection to internet required), we recommend you use the help of a local guide to help you navigate in the complex world of sake and grasp all the richness of agriculture in the Shonai region. Send a mail to our interpreter-guide association: Chat-Chat!
3. The Kamiike, Shimoike lakes and its nearby nature-preservation center: Hotoria ほとりあ
Takadate Mountain and its surrounding lakes Oyama Kami-ike & Shimo-ike’s Wetlands Takadate Mountain and its surrounding area, including Kami-ike (Upper Lake) and Shimo-ike (Lower Lake), are designated as bird and wildlife protection zones under the Ramsar Convention. The region, part of the Shonai Coastal Prefectural Nature Park, features a rare beech forest and a rich mix of cold- and warm-climate plants, making it a unique ecosystem.
A Haven for Wild Birds The Upper and Lower Ponds are vital wintering grounds for migratory waterfowl, including 20,000 to 30,000 mallards, as well as Eurasian Teals and Smews. Swans, such as the Whooper Swan, and geese like the Greater White-fronted Goose also frequent the area. Additionally, small birds like the Yellow-breasted Bunting and Common Redpoll pass through during migration. The best place to spot birds around the Shimoike Lake is the Oura Bird Lovers’ Hall おうら愛鳥館.
Diverse Flora and Fauna The ponds are home to rare dragonfly species like the Violet Dropwing and Giant Darner, as well as various butterfly species. The area boasts a wide variety of trees, including Horse Chestnut and Maple, along with plants native to the Sea of Japan, such as Marsh Wisteria and Yellow Columbine.
Lotus Flowers In July, lotus flowers bloom in the Upper Pond, reaching their peak in August. Local residents harvest the flowers during the Obon festival, offering them at the altar to honor ancestors.
Birds species present around the lakes (excerpt)
マガモ – Mallard/wild duck
コガモ – Eurasian Teal (or Common Teal)
ホシハジロ – Common Pochard
カワウ – Great Cormorant
ジョウビタキ – Daurian Redstart
ヒヨドリ – Brown-eared Bulbul
カルガモ – Eastern Spot-billed Duck
And many more!
How to visit
Hotoria’s Opening Hours 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed Every Tuesday / Year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 – January 3) ※ If Tuesday falls on a national holiday, the museum will be closed on the nearest weekday following that day (that is not a holiday). ※ Please refer to the “Event Newsletter” for details on closed days.
Admission Free
Parking
15 regular cars
2 spaces for visitors with disabilities ※ The Oyama Park parking lot is also available (40 spaces for regular cars / large vehicles accepted) ※ Please note: Roads around the facility are narrow, making two-way traffic difficult, and include tight turns. For this reason, large buses should avoid long-term parking and instead use the Oyama Park parking lot. Thank you for your cooperation.
You can walk around the lakes regardless of Hotoria’s open hours! Just make sure of the weather conditions beforehand and do not try to hike if the weather conditions are dangerous.
4. Fukudaya’s kakigori (in summer) and confectioneries 福田屋
No visit to Oyama is complete without a sweet little indulgence—and Fukudaya is the perfect spot. Whether you stop by in the morning or afternoon, this beloved local shop is always a good idea.
Fukudaya offers a delightful selection of Japanese and Western sweets, ideal as gifts or to enjoy with a cup of tea. Take a break in the cozy café and sample local favorites like the gently sweet imo yokan (sweet potato jelly) and refreshing sake jelly made with sake from Tsuruoka’s Ōyama district. In the summer, their fluffy kakigori (shaved ice with syrup) is a crowd-pleaser.
Weekends bring out special treats like the Canelé de Bordeaux, and don’t miss the choux filled with cream only after you order—crispy, creamy, and made to impress.
Kakigori served between June to September (may vary) from 10am to 5pm (orders must be place before 4:30pm if customers want to eat inside). Sales stop until the shop runs out of syrup. Bus stop name nearby: Oyama Kamihonmachi 大山上本町 (bus timetable)
Oyama Park is one of the many famous cherry blossom spots in Tsuruoka city.
It features walking trails, rest pavilions, and can be explored in about an hour. With views over the Shonai Plain and distant peaks like Mt. Gassan and Mt. Chokai—especially majestic during snowmelt season—the park is a beloved local spot for nature and history lovers.
Oyama Park is also home to the ruins of Oura Castle, once the residence of the warlord Muto during the Sengoku period. In the late Edo period, over 800 cherry and peach trees were planted here in gratitude for the village’s escape from harsh punishment after the “Oyama Uprising.” This marked the beginning of the park’s reputation as a cherry blossom destination.
Each spring, peach blossoms, magnolias, weeping cherries, Somei Yoshino, and double-flowered cherry trees bloom in succession.
How to visit
Cherry blossoms usually bloom 3/4 days later than in Tsuruoka Park (see our cherry blossom spotting article here), normally early to mid-April
Bus stop name nearby: Oyama Kouenguchi 大山公園口 (bus timetable)
6. Oyama’s Dog Festival (Inu Matsuri) – June 5th 大山犬祭り
One of Shonai’s three major festivals, this event has a 300-year history rooted in the legend of the “Mekke Dog,” a legendary dog said to have defeated a shape-shifting creature (mujina) that once haunted the mountain behind Sugi-no-o Shrine. The festival features traditional processions, including a dog-shaped mikoshi (portable shrine), a parade with a kari-nyōbō (a young woman offered as a sacrifice to the creature), and vibrant karaguri floats with mechanical puppets.
This charming farm-to-table restaurant is owned by the warm-hearted Japanese proprietor, Mrs. Chonan Mitsu. Recognized for her thoughtful approach to food, Mitsu was honored in the “100 Best Farmer-Lodge Okaasan” by the Japanese government in 2009. Central to her philosophy is the cultivation of vegetables and rice on her own farm, ensuring the highest quality of ingredients for her customers. Mitsu staunchly avoids additives, relying instead on natural elements to enhance the flavors of local cuisine.
By exclusively preparing local dishes with homegrown vegetables, Mitsu aims to impart the allure of Tsuruoka’s rustic traditions to her patrons. Notably, Mitsu is adept at adapting her meals for vegans and vegetarians. It is advisable to inform her of any dietary restrictions, specifically regarding animal products, including bonito powder, when making a reservation (動物性食品, dôbutsusei-shokuhin).
Shinchaya
Shinchaya is a long-standing traditional Japanese cuisine restaurant known for its exceptional culinary offerings. The signature dish of the establishment is the “tamagoyaki” (rolled omelet). What sets Shinchaya’s tamagoyaki apart is its lustrous sheen and its soft, jelly-like texture.
For guests with specific dietary preferences, Shinchaya is flexible and can accommodate pescetarian, vegetarian, and vegan meals with advance reservation, preferably up to 2 days prior to your planned visit. This ensures that the restaurant can tailor the dining experience to meet individual dietary needs.
Saikan
Saikan is a Shinto pilgrim lodge and lunch restaurant located within the premises of the former Buddhist temple called Shôon’in, constructed in 1697. After the religious separation between Shinto and Buddhism in 1868 (1869 in Haguro), the building underwent conversion to Shintoism and was renamed Saikan.
A significant site for Shinto yamabushi during their retreat training, Saikan plays a crucial role in various ceremonies. For instance, it serves as the location where the yamabushi concludes the Shoreisai ceremony by partaking in the Nishi sushi.
Chef Ito Shinkichi presents his interpretation of Dewa Sanzan shojin-ryori daily, offering a Shinto version of the originally Buddhist dish. This culinary endeavor aims to pay homage to the magnificence of nature. While shojin-ryori can be prepared as a vegan dish, it is essential to notify Chef Ito Shinkichi three days in advance if you have specific dietary preferences.
Okimizuki
Okimizuki is the restaurant situated within Kamo Aquarium, recognized as the largest jellyfish-themed aquarium globally. The establishment is led by Suda Takeshi, a seafood chef renowned for his exceptional skills in preparing sole sashimi and his expertise in handling fugu fish (blowfish).
Chef Suda holds the national diploma required for safely cooking fugu fish for patrons, ensuring there is no risk for those tempted by this renowned delicacy. Among Chef Suda’s notable creations is the fugu sashimi artfully arranged into the shape of a crane, showcasing his culinary mastery.
In addition to his expertise in seafood, Chef Suda is celebrated for his innovative approach to Tsuruoka’s traditional dishes, incorporating them into modern menus. One such creation is the Kitamaebune Gozen menu, introduced in 2021. This menu pays homage to the culinary discoveries and innovations brought to Tsuruoka by merchants sailing along the Kitamae maritime road from the 18th century to the early 20th century.
Naa
Naa is a quaint restaurant tucked behind a farm, offering a unique dining experience. The proprietors utilize organic vegetables primarily cultivated on the farm. The restaurant’s interior reflects the typical style of the 80s in Japan, providing a nostalgic ambiance. From inside, patrons can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Gassan and Mt. Kinbo.
For those eager to savor Tsuruoka’s delectable vegetable cuisine in a setting reminiscent of a Japanese family meal, a visit to Naa is highly recommended. Lunch menus begin at 990 yen, while dinner options start at 3,000 yen.
Takitaro
Takitaro is a restaurant that specializes in serving traditional local cuisine for both lunch and dinner. With lunch menus starting at 1200 yen per person, the focus is on showcasing the richness of local seafood. Depending on the season, Takitaro also features typical seasonal dishes, such as Yamagata’s imoni potato soup in autumn or the kandara-jiru black cod soup in winter.
For those seeking to experience the soulful flavors of Tsuruoka’s cuisine at affordable prices and conveniently located around the station (just an 8-minute walk away), Takitaro is a must-visit destination.
Atsumi-kabu : Atsumi’s red turnip
For over 330 years, the Atsumi region in Tsuruoka City has been practicing slash-and-burn cultivation for its red turnip: the “Atsumi-kabu”, making it one of the oldest surviving indigenous crops in Yamagata Prefecture. This crop, known as “Atsumi Kabu,” is renowned for its crisp texture, making it a delectable choice for pickling. Remarkably, historical records from over 200 years ago mention its high value, with 18 kabu being exchanged for one shō (a traditional Japanese unit of volume) of rice, highlighting its esteemed status.
It is mostly eaten as a sweet “tsukemono,” pickled in a mixture of vinegar, salt and sugar.
Hike to the top of Mt. Haguro
Climb the 2446 steps within the cedar forests that received 3 stars in the Green Michelin Guide.
Distance
3.5km
Elevation
310meters
Required Time
1.2h
Danger level
Rather safe *Dangers include:Heat strokes, Slippery when raining
Difficulty level (for beginners)
Moderate
Equipment needed
● Water ● Hiking shoes or sneakers ● Rainwear or umbrella
Difficulty levels have been designed for people who have a PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence) score inferior or equal to 60. Experienced hikers or persons with a PAI above 100 can withdraw two cases to know the average difficulty for their fitness level. Example: Trails noted “Hard for beginners” correspond to “average” trails for experienced hikers or people with a PAI above 100.
1. Start climbing from Zuishinmon
To come by bus from the Station, get on the bus bound for Hagurosan 羽黒山行き in front of the station (Tsuruoka ekimae 鶴岡駅前) at the bus stop n°1 バスのりば①, and get off the bus at Haguro Zuishinmon 羽黒随神門.
2. Beyond this point is the start of Haguro’s steps
2446 stone steps are waiting for you. Make sure to bring enough water with you.
3. Go down the Mamako-zaka
Go down the Mamakozaka 継子坂, to arrive at the Haraikawa shrines 祓川. This place is the metaphor of hell in Dewa Sanzan’s Shugendo practices.
4. On your right, you will find the Suga Falls
The Suga falls 須賀の滝 are where the yamabushi priests of the Dewa Sanzan shrine accomplish the Omisogi cleansing ritual in late March.
5. A little bit further, on your left, is Grandpa Cedar
Grandpa Cedar (Jiji-sugi 爺杉) is a Natural National Monument that has more than 1000 years old.
6. A little further, yo will find the Five-Storied Pagoda
A National Treasure.
7. Continue climbing
This is what the Oibunseki 追分石 looks like.
8. Continue
9. You will arrive at the Ninosaka slope
The Ninosaka 二ノ坂 slope is the steepest part of Mt. Haguro’s hike.
10. You can rest at Ninosaka Teahouse
Ninosaka Chaya 二ノ坂茶屋 is a teahouse that proposes tea, mochi cakes (chikara mochi 力餅), drinks and souvenirs. Please buy a little something if you wish to use the teahouse to rest.
11. Continue hiking
12.On your left, an ancient graveyard
A giant cedar tree divided in two trunks marks the spot of an ancient graveyard. It is authorized to visit and take pictures, but please remain respectful of the place when visiting.
13. Graveyard
14. Ancient Buddhist statues
15. Ancient Buddhist statues
16.In front of the graveyard, the Izanagi shrine
17. The Izanagi shrine ruins and its torii
18. Continue hiking
19. A little further, on your right, the path to Minamidani.
It takes 15 minutes to arrive to Minami dani’s ruins.
20. If you followed the path to Minamidani, you arrive to the lake
Minami-dani is the place where the poet Matsuo Basho retreated during his visit of Mt. Haguro to write haïkus. Go back to the path you came by to go back to Mt. Haguro’s hiking trail.
21. After climbing the Sannosaka, you arrive at the Haniyamahime Shrine
This shrine binds couples for eternity and boosts the couples’ fertility.
22. A little further, on your left: Saikan
Saikan can serve shojin-ryori for lunch (on reservation) and also proposes lodging for the night.
23. Saikan’s entrance
24. A little further, the top of Mt. Haguro
When you have arrived to the big thatched-roof shrine (Sanjingosaiden), your hike has ended. Otsukaresama deshita! お疲れ様でした! (“congratulations for your efforts!”)
25. You can rest inside Sanshuden
Sanshuden 参集殿 is free to access for everybody who wish to rest. You can find drinks, amulets and a museum (free) inside.
26. If you continue straight: the Dewa Sanzan Museum
Further this point, you will arrive at Hagurosan Sancho’s parking lot, where you will also find food stands, souvenir shops and toilets.
Rokujurigoe-Kaido: From the Nanatsu falls to Yudono
The final step before reaching Mt. Haguro through the Rokujurigoe-Kaido pilgrim trail.
● Water ● Hiking shoes ● Rainwear ● Sun hat ● Hiking sticks ● Food or snacks
Difficulty levels have been designed for people who have a PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence) score inferior or equal to 60. Experienced hikers or persons with a PAI above 100 can withdraw two cases to know the average difficulty for their fitness level. Example: Trails noted “Hard for beginners” correspond to “average” trails for experienced hikers or people with a PAI above 100
1. Locate the Nanatsu Falls
The Nanatsu Falls are located up a small village called Tamugimata 田麦俣. You can recognize Tamugimata by its thatched-roof houses like the Tasôminka 多層民家. If you come by bus, get off the bus at Tamugimata bus stop 田麦俣バス停. Walk up the waterfalls for 15 minutes from there.
You can recognize the start of the trial at the flag floating around. Don’t forget to write your name in the notebook inside the little wooden house. It will help us rescue you if needed. You need a bear bell from here.
3. Enter the wild forest
4. The forest continues
5. You enter a cedar forest
Make sure your bear bell is making enough noise before entering here.
6. Follow the path in the cedar forest
7. You arrive at the Kobo Chaya
The Kobo Chaya 弘法茶屋 are the ruins of a teahouse where Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism is said to have stayed during his trip here.
8. (Optional) Go further this point to find the Kobo Spring
Fill your water bottle here. The Kobo Spring (弘法清水) is said to have been found by Kobo Daishi himself.
9. Follow a path to the beech forest
You leave the cedar forest to enter the beech tree forest.
10. You spot the Dragon God Beech Tree
11. Follow the Tsukanara
Follow the path called Tsukanara 塚なら.
12. Get out of the forest
At some point, you will leave the forest to find a paved road. If you feel unwell, do not go further and seek help to return to the city. If you feel well enough, take the elevated bridge to go back to the forest.
13. You come across a detour road
14. Follow the path inside the beech forest
15. There is another detour road
16. You come across this sign
The sign says: “Rokujurigoe Kaido: the pilgrimage to Mt. Yudono” 六十里越街道：「ゆどの道」
17. Spot the “Lovey-dovey beeches”
Those trees are connected by one branch, making them look like two lovers holding hands, hence their name: “the Lovey-Dovey Beeches” (Raburabuna ラブラブナ)
18. You come across this Buddhist stele
19. You arrive to the Dokko Chaya
Use the portable toilet if needed.
20. Use the portable toilet.
21. Buddhist statues next to the
If you follow the path to the Dokko Springs 独鈷清水, you will find these Buddhist statues that got their heads severed during the Buddhist purge in the 19th century.
22. Spot this sign to the Senju Buna tree
23. Arrive at the Senju Buna Tree
Senju Buna 千手ブナ means: “The Thousand-Handed Beech tree”.
24. Arrive at the Kohonogi Beech Tree Tunnel
You arrive at the Kohonogi 小堀抜: The “Small Beech Tree Tunnel”.
25. Follow the Ohonogi Beech Tree Tunnel
A little further from the Kohonogi is the Ohonogi 大堀抜: the “Big Beech Tree Tunnel”.
26. Follow the path
27. You arrive at an intersection
Both paths lead to the same end.
28. You arrive at the Hosogoe rest area
Hosogoe-toge 細越峠 is recognizable by its logs and stela.
29. Have a view on Mt. Yudono
This spot is called Yudonosan Yôhaijo 湯殿山遥拝所
30. Spot the wild flowers on trees
31. Follow the descending slope
32.You exit the forest
33. A sign indicates the Sasagoya Ruins
There was once a thatch-roofed teahouse here, but the lack of pilgrims through the years had it close down. Now, only the logs are remaining.
34. A sign indicates the steles of Churenji & Dainichibo temples
35. Cross the bridge
36. You are getting near Mt. Yudono
This stele worships Mt. Yudono’s gods.
37. Follow the narrow road to Mt. Yudono
38. After this slope, you’ll arrive to a paved road
39. Cross the road to climb the final path to Mt. Yudono
Be careful to approaching cars & buses!!
40. Climb the “Repentance Slope”
The Zange-zaka ザンゲ坂 (“The Repentance Slope”) is the final step to Mt. Yudono. It is a bit steep, so brace yourselves.
41. You can spot Yudono’s torii gate
42. You arrive at Yudonosan Senninzawa
This is the end of your hike to Mt. Yudono. You can take it further by following the Yamabushi path, only if you are guided by a Yamabushi monk/priest.
Rokujurigoe-Kaido: From Dainichibo Temple to the Nanatsu Falls
Leave the mummies village to go back to the Rokujurigoe-Kaido forests.
Distance
4km
Elevation
160meters
Required Time
1.5h
Danger level
Caution advised *Dangers include:Bear presence
Difficulty level (for beginners)
Easy
Equipment needed
● Water ● Hiking shoes ● Rainwear ● Sun hat ● Hiking sticks
Difficulty levels have been designed for people who have a PAI (Personal Activity Intelligence) score inferior or equal to 60. Experienced hikers or persons with a PAI above 100 can withdraw two cases to know the average difficulty for their fitness level. Example: Trails noted “Hard for beginners” correspond to “average” trails for experienced hikers or people with a PAI above 100
3. You spot this stele that indicates the location of the Odan no sugi
4. The giant stele on the left indicates the presence of the Odan no Sugi
5. You see the Odan no Sugi
6. Odan no sugi
The Odan no sugi 皇壇ノ杉 is a giant cedar tree which age is estimated beyond 1000 years old. It is said Emperor Keiko’s son is buried under the tree.
7. Go for Dainichibo’s graveyard
8. Dainichibo’s graveyard
9. Follow the paved road
10. A sign tells you the direction to go to go to Tamugimata village
11. Follow the path
12. You enter a beech forest
13. Continue
14. You arrived at the Sainotoge
The Sainotoge 塞ノ峠 ruins are those of a former pilgrim teahouse that was once thriving. This is the proof of the popularity the Rokujurigoe-kaido had among the pilgrims at the time.
15. Follow straight
16. You arrive at a pond
17. Follow the dirt road on the left
18. You come by this flag.
19. Below is the village of Tamugimata
20. Follow the path to Tamugimata village
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21. You arrive by a road. This sign indicates a spring that is not for use anymore.
22. Further, the NanakamadoTei inn.
Stay here if it’s late or if you want to have lunch.
23. Cross the road
Soon you’ll arrive by a river
24. A stele tells you you’re in the right direction
25. You cross a river
26. Soon, you arrive at a village with two big thatch-roofed houses.
This is Tamugimata village. Follow the path up the village to find the next entrance to the Rokujurigoe-kaido pilgrim trail.
27. After a while, you come by the Arikoshizaka entrance
This is the entrance you will need to take to get to Mt. Yudono. But we suggest you take a look at the Nanatsu falls before heading for the last step of the pilgrimage.
28. A little further the Arikoshizaka: the Nanatsu Falls
One of Japan’s 100 most beautiful waterfalls.
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