Five-storied Pagoda, Haguro-san

The Five-storied Pagoda in Haguro-san is a wooden structure standing 29 meters tall, with five levels covered in cedar shingles and located in a forest at the base of Mount Haguro. The levels taper toward the top and show curved roofs, while the dark red paint stands out against the green of the trees.

The pagoda first appeared between 931 and 937 during the Heian period as part of a Buddhist temple on Haguro. After a fire the current structure was built in 1369 during the Nanboku period and now ranks among the National Treasures of Japan.

The tower ranks among the oldest wooden structures of its kind in northeastern Honshu and draws Buddhist pilgrims who ascend the sacred mountain. Its dark red color and curved roofs blend into the forested surroundings and create a quiet spot for reflection.

You can reach the pagoda by traveling to the Haguro Zuishinmon mae stop and then walking down the stone steps of the mountain. The path leads through dense forest and turns slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

The central pillar of the structure hangs freely from the top floor to just above the ground, without touching the lower floors directly. This design dampens shocks from earthquakes and wind and has protected the wooden frame for over 650 years.

Location: Tsuruoka

Inception: 10 century

Architectural style: Wayō

Height: 29.2 m

Part of: Dewa Shrine

Address: 山形県鶴岡市羽黒町大字手向

GPS coordinates: 38.70478,139.96760

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28