DIFFICULY
★★☆☆☆
Approximately 5 hours
2-10 people
From
¥101,200 and up (tax included)
森林浴, 御師集落, ヨガ, リトリート
OVERVIEW
[A Story of Prayer and Renewal: Reset Your Mind and Body in Tokyo’s Sacred Sanctuary]
Mount Mitake, Tokyo’s inner sanctum.
This “sacred sanctuary” has long flourished as a center of Shugendo and mountain worship, and to this day, it is imbued with an air of mystery.
This journey is a special experience designed to help you deeply reset yourself by escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and connecting with the energy of nature and traditional culture.
The journey begins with a “geological exploration” where you can feel the pulse of the earth. Descending a steep valley, we head toward “Shichidai Falls,” formed by uplift and waterways over the past 20 million years.
The gorge, carved out of hard bedrock by water over countless years, is filled with such power that you can feel the spray; you’ll be greeted by crisp air and lush moss. The guide’s explanations of the terrain and vegetation transform the scenery from mere landscapes into a “special stage where faith was nurtured,” deepening your sense of awe for nature with every step.
Accompanied by a pleasant sense of fatigue, you arrive at “Katayanagi-so,” a temple lodging that has supported pilgrims and ascetics for generations.
Here, you’ll savor a special lunch rooted in local history and samurai culture, and listen to the innkeeper’s stories about life and culture on Mount Ontake.
The cuisine, made with local ingredients, and the warm hospitality nourish both body and soul from within, revealing the depth of the faith that thrives in this land.
The climax of the journey is “Sky Yoga” at Nagaodaira, where the view opens up dramatically.
As you feel the crisp mountain breeze on your skin and breathe deeply in the soft light, you will feel your body—stiffened by the hustle and bustle of daily life—unwind, and your mind grow light and clear.
This experience, a trinity of “Activity,” “Nature,” and “Culture,” allows you to fully appreciate the resources of the sacred Mount Mitake and reclaim your vitality for tomorrow, making it a truly sustainable journey.
Why not embark on a 5-hour journey to rejuvenate your mind and body while experiencing firsthand the nature and history of prayer at the sacred Mount Mitake?
Descend into a steep valley and witness the awe-inspiring power of the “Seven-Generation Falls,” which tell the story of the earth’s formation over the past 20 million years.
After enjoying a lunch at a historic temple lodging that introduces you to the local culinary culture, you’ll practice “Sky Yoga” at Nagaodaira, a spot offering breathtaking views.
Surrounded by the mountain’s crisp air and gentle breeze, you’ll reset the fatigue of daily life.
Accompanied by commentary from a professional guide, we offer a special experience where you’ll walk through the depths of this sacred sanctuary, where nature and faith blend as one.
HIGHLIGHTS
Trace the memories of the earth carved by the “Mountain of the Gods.” A thrilling hike through the Nanayo Falls Gorge
Venture deep into Mount Mitake, where steep valleys and abundant waterways—formed by the uplift of the Kanto Mountains and volcanic activity—thrive.
Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll explore the rock formations eroded over 20 million years and the diverse vegetation that changes with altitude.
The journey to the spectacular Nanayo Falls—where the spray reaches you—transcends a simple hike, becoming an intellectual adventure where you experience with all five senses the impact the terrain has had on the formation of sacred sites and mountain worship.
Rejuvenate your mind and body at the panoramic “Nagaodaira.” Experience the bliss of sky yoga, enveloped by mountain breezes and sunlight.
After getting your body moving with a hike, join us for a yoga session at Nagaodaira, where the view stretches out before you, surrounded by the crisp mountain air.
Under the unobstructed sky, as you feel the sound of the wind and the warmth of the sun on your skin while taking deep breaths, you’ll enjoy a luxurious moment where the fatigue of daily life melts away and your mind and body are reset.
The appeal of yoga in nature is that even beginners will be surprised at how naturally their bodies move, experiencing a refreshing sensation as their posture straightens.
Indulge in fine dining at the historic temple lodging “Katayanagi-so” and immerse yourself in the Oshi culture that continues to be preserved today.
At this temple lodging, which has welcomed pilgrims and ascetics since ancient times, you’ll enjoy a special lunch rooted in the traditions of Oshi culture and pilgrimage.
While savoring dishes steeped in history and made with local ingredients, you’ll hear stories about life and faith on Mount Mitake directly from the inn’s proprietress.
This experience—where you step beyond the role of a mere tourist to touch the inner workings of a “daily life intertwined with faith” that continues to thrive in this region—will deepen the memories of your journey.
ITINERARY
■Schedule
10:00 AM Meet at JR Mitake Station
We will check in and explain today’s itinerary and important notes.
10:10 AM Transportation
We will take the cable car to Mitake-san Station.
10:30 Fieldwork 1: Explanation of History and Beliefs
Around Musashi-Mitake Shrine, we will listen to an explanation of the long-standing mountain worship traditions and the culture of the Oshi (mountain priests), and learn about the mountain’s background as a sacred site.
11:00 Activity 1: Hike to Nanayo Falls
We will descend a steep valley, observing the gorge terrain formed by water erosion, as we head toward the impressive Nanayo Falls. Along the way, we will also explore changes in vegetation due to altitude and the diversity of mosses.
12:30 PM Lunch (Shukubo Lunch)
At the shukubo (temple lodging) “Katayanagi-so,” we will enjoy a meal that reflects the region’s history and the culinary traditions linked to samurai culture.
1:30 PM Activity 2: “Sky Yoga” at Nagaodaira
We’ll hold a yoga session at Nagaodaira, a spot with sweeping views, where you can feel the crisp mountain air and breeze. This is an experience to reset your mind and body and realign your physical well-being amidst nature.
2:30 PM Debriefing
We’ll summarize the experience and fill out a questionnaire.
3:00 PM End of Tour (Near Mitake-san Station)
DETAILS
■1. Clothing
Since we will be descending into steep valleys and practicing yoga outdoors, it is essential to wear clothing that prioritizes ease of movement and temperature regulation.
・Hiking boots or trekking shoes with strong traction
The trail leading to Shichidai Falls is covered with wet vegetation and moss, making some sections extremely slippery. Please avoid sandals or sneakers and wear sturdy footwear.
・Clothing that allows for easy movement and layering
After working up a sweat during the hike, your body can easily get cold during yoga at the windy Nagaodaira. Please bring a quick-drying base layer along with a windproof shell or fleece for warmth.
・Stretchy pants
We recommend stretchy materials suitable for both hiking and yoga.
■2. What to Bring
・Rain gear (separate top and bottom)
Essential to prepare for sudden weather changes in the mountains.
・Drinks and snacks
For hydration during the 1.5-hour hike and yoga session.
・Towel
For wiping sweat or as a prop during yoga.
・Backpack
Please pack all your belongings in a backpack to keep your hands free and walk safely.
■3. Important Notes
These are key points to ensure you enjoy the experience safely and reset your mind and body.
・Exercise Extreme Caution on the Trail
The path to Shichidai Falls has significant elevation changes, and rocky areas and stream banks are particularly slippery. Please follow the guide’s instructions and walk carefully.
・Self-Monitor Your Health
If you feel unwell during yoga or hiking, do not push yourself; please notify the guide or instructor immediately.
・Respect for Nature
Mt. Mitake is an ecologically rich area home to a diverse array of wild birds and plants. Picking plants and littering are strictly prohibited.
・Respect for Local Culture
Musashi-Mitake Shrine and the temple lodgings (shukubo) you will visit are sacred sites where faith and daily life continue to thrive. Please observe proper etiquette during meals and interactions at the shukubo to ensure an enjoyable stay.
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