光禪寺

The temple sits on a steep hillside and connects its various buildings through roughly 1,000 stone steps, guiding visitors through multiple gates and halls toward the inner sanctuary. The complex stretches from the base to the summit with structures that adapt to the natural slope.

The temple was founded in 860 and has housed a main sanctuary that ranks among the nation's oldest timber structures made of beech wood. Over centuries, the site has maintained its status as an important cultural landmark.

The name reflects Zen Buddhist philosophy, visible in how the temple spaces are arranged and in the carefully tended gardens along the ascent. Visitors can observe how pilgrims and tourists approach the climb as a spiritual practice rather than just a physical exercise.

Plan about 90 minutes to explore the entire site, with regular rest stops placed along the stairway paths. Comfortable shoes are essential since the ascent involves many steps and uneven ground.

The Midahora area contains naturally carved rocks that take the shape of Buddha, while a nearby mound preserves poetry strips left by the classical poet Matsuo Basho. These two spots show how nature and literature intertwine within this sacred place.

Location: Yamagata

GPS coordinates: 38.23875,140.33528

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24