Ōmine Okugakemichi, Sacred pilgrimage route between Yoshino and Kumano Sanzan, Japan.
Description
Ōmine Okugakemichi is a pilgrimage route between Yoshino and Kumano Sanzan that extends approximately 98 kilometers through mountain ridges above 1000 meters in elevation. The path links shrines and sacred sites across challenging high-altitude terrain.
History
The route was founded in the 8th century by En no Gyoja as a training ground for practitioners seeking spiritual awakening through ascetic discipline. This early establishment as a practice pathway established a tradition that continues to the present day.
Culture
The route passes through sacred sites where Shugendo practitioners today conduct rituals blending Buddhist, Shinto, and mountain worship traditions. These living practices shape how the landscape is used and experienced by those who walk the path.
Practical
The route typically takes five days to walk from start to finish and crosses challenging mountain terrain with significant elevation changes. Mountain lodges provide overnight stays along the path, and sturdy footwear and proper preparation are essential for this trek.
Did you know?
Mount Omine, a central point along the route, has maintained for centuries a tradition restricting entry to male practitioners only. This strict custom distinguishes this path from other pilgrimage routes and remains in practice today.
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20.5 km
Tanize Suspension Bridge
16.1 km
Mount Hakkyō
698 m
Ikehara Dam
15.8 km
Otaki Dam
19.5 km
Yoshino Mikumari Shrine
19.7 km
Ryūsen-ji
10.4 km
Kinpu Shrine
18.3 km
Mount Gyōjagaeri
4.3 km
Kazeya Dam
18.8 km
Mount Daifugen
7.3 km
Ōsako Dam
14.2 km
Sakuramotobō
20.6 km
Sarutani Dam
15.5 km
Fudō-nanae Falls
10.2 km
Sōmon Falls
2.7 km
Hōkaku-ji
17.3 km
Sasa Falls
14 km
Mount Aonegamine
18.1 km
Jōkaku-ji
19.5 km
Sakamoto Dam
16.4 km
Ikehara Bridge
16.1 km
川上村立図書館
17.7 km
ホテル杉の湯
18 km
Mount Ōtenjō
11.7 km
Ikehara Reservoir
15.4 km
Kazeya Reservoir
19.5 km
Mount Nakahachinin
16.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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