FAQ

  1. What is Yamabushi training?

    Yamabushi training is a form of Japanese mountain ascetic practice rooted in the ancient Japanese belief of Shugendō. Through hiking, meditation, waterfall meditation, rituals, silence, and immersion in nature, participants experience deep personal reflection, challenge, and transformation.

  2. What is a Yamabushi?

    A Yamabushi is a practitioner of Shugendo — someone who trains in the mountains to cultivate clarity, humility, and spiritual strength. Yamabushi are known for their white robes, conch shell (horagai), ritual tools, and mountain-based discipline. Modern Yamabushi include practitioners from many backgrounds, not just monks.

  3. What is Shugendo?

    Shugendo is a traditional Japanese spiritual practice that blends Shinto, Buddhism, Taoism, and ancient nature worship. Practitioners known as Yamabushi seek enlightenment and lessons from nature through training in nature, especially in the mountains. Shugendo is experiential and practice-based, with rituals, hiking, meditation, and purification forming its core.

  4. Where does Yamabushi training take place?

    All Yamabushido programs are held on and around the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan — Haguro-san, Gassan, and Yudono-san — the historic heart of Haguro Shugendō practice.

  5. Is the training open to both men and women?

    Yes. Yamabushido training is open to all genders. We welcome anyone with an open mind and willingness to take part in the practice. Our English-language programs are mixed groups, and women regularly participate in all programs.

  6. What’s the difference between a Yamabushi and a Shinto priest?

    Yamabushi are practitioners of Shugendo, a mountain-based spiritual tradition blending Shinto, Buddhism, and nature worship. Shinto priests serve at shrines, perform ceremonies, and maintain shrine rituals. Yamabushi focus on discipline and practice in nature. They are different roles, though historically connected.

  7. Is this a religious experience?

    Yamabushi training is rooted in the spiritual tradition of Shugendo, but our programs focus on experiential practice rather than belief. People of all faiths, or none, are welcome to participate. Respect for the training and its customs is expected.

  8. What do Yamabushi do?

    Practices vary by program but often include mountain hiking, meditation, waterfall meditation, ritual purification, chanting, silence, and connecting deeply with nature. Specific practices depend on the mountain, season, and tradition.

  9. What level of fitness do I need?

    Reset Training is suitable for most people who can walk steadily for several hours. Basic, Masters, and Private programs involve multi-day mountain hikes and require greater endurance. If you regularly walk, hike, or exercise, you should be fine.

  10. Do I need prior experience to join Yamabushidō training?

    No. No previous experience is required. All training is guided by certified Yamabushi who support you throughout the program.

  11. Is Yamabushi training safe?

    Safety is always our first priority. However, this can be quite an intense experience at times and we require insurance.

    All programs are guided by certified Yamabushi, and routes, pace, and practices are adapted to weather and group conditions. Please inform us in advance of any injuries, health concerns, or allergies.

  12. Is Yamabushi training suitable for complete beginners?

    Yes. Many participants join with no prior mountain or spiritual training. Our guides adjust the pace and practices to ensure the experience is accessible, even for first-timers.

  13. What are the rules for yamabushi training?

    Yamabushi training follows traditional rules designed to help you stay fully present. During the training you refrain from speaking (other than “Uketamo”), using phones or watches, and reading or writing. These guidelines help you disconnect from daily life and immerse deeply in the experience.

  14. What should I bring?

    Bring sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, rain gear, water, and basic personal items. A full packing list is provided after booking and includes everything needed for mountain conditions.

  15. What language support is there?

    Our English-language programs include full bilingual support. A support guide provides instructions and assistance in English throughout the training. The Yamabushi practice itself is mostly non-verbal and conducted in silence, which is part of the tradition.

  16. What if I have dietary concerns?

    Please inform us of any dietary needs in advance. Some dietary restrictions can be accommodated, but options may be limited due to the traditional meals served at mountain lodges. We will do our best, but flexibility is appreciated.

  17. How do we get there?

    Most participants travel to Tsuruoka City by taking a Shinkansen to Niigata then the Inaho Express to Tsuruoka, a domestic flight from Haneda to Shonai Airport, or highway bus. Our team provides pickup from Tsuruoka Station or instructions to reach the meeting point.
    For detailed access information, see our full guide.

  18. Can I stay in the area before or after training?

    Yes. Many participants choose to stay in the Shonai region before or after their training. We can help arrange accommodation, car hire, or additional experiences upon request. Handling fees may apply — contact us for details.

    Please note the following conditions:

    Registration period: At least 2 weeks before date of stay or use of service.

    Arrangement area: Tsuruoka and Sakata city, Shonai town, Mikawa, Nishikawa, and Murakami, Niigata.

    Handling fee: 25% of cost.

    Payment: Full amount paid in advance via online methods (Credit Card, Bank Transfer, PayPal etc.).

  19. Do you offer year-round programs?

    Yes. The 7-day Reset Training and 3-day Private Reset Training are available all year, including winter. Basic and Masters programs are offered on set dates.

  20. How do I book a program?

    Use the contact form at the bottom of this page. We respond during business hours. We have a video chat with all potential participants where we answer questions and help you choose the most suitable program.