Osorezan Fear Mountain Belief System

A sacred mountain at 912 meters located in Mutsu, Aomori Prefecture. A Tendai Buddhist temple is established here, with landscapes depicting hell and paradise. Nationally known for the custom of itako (blind mediums) facilitating communication with the deceased, it has long embodied strong beliefs about the afterlife.

A sacred site of mountain worship comprising Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono. With over 1,400 years of history as a training ground for Shugendo asceticism, the mountain monks in white robes and their austere practices preserve Japan's mountain ascetic traditions.

One of Japan's three great sacred sites. Sulfurous fumes and desolate rocks create an 'entrance to the afterlife.' Known for itako mediums, it draws those seeking to communicate with the dead.

Three sacred mountains in Yamagata—Haguro, Gassan, and Yudono. A center of mountain worship since ancient times. The pilgrimage route to Haguro is known for its cedar trees over 300 years old. Approximately 1 million visitors annually, representing Japan's mountain worship traditions alongside the sacred Yudono Mountain.

The head shrine of the Sengen Shrine network, located in Fujisan, Yamanashi Prefecture. Dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of volcanoes, it has long served as the spiritual center for Mount Fuji worship. Pilgrims pray here for safe climbing, embodying Japan's ancient mountain worship tradition as an integral component of Fuji faith.

Traditional Japanese culture of mountain worship and veneration. Sacred mountains like Fuji, Hakusan, and Tateyama serve as pilgrimage sites, with mountain ascents functioning as spiritual practice. Blending shamanism and Buddhism, it creates a unique faith system. Contemporary mountaineering maintains cultural importance as outdoor recreation. Rooted in the deepest layers of Japanese nature philosophy.