You will find Saikan on the left shortly after reaching the top of the third stone stairway on the Haguro pilgrimage path, just before the large torii gate marking the end of the ascent.

Originally known as Kezōin, this site was one of the three sendatsu temples—lodges led by senior ascetic priests—and was rebuilt in 1697. At the time, it served as the residence of a high-ranking priest, second only to the Shikkō Bettō (chief administrator) of Mt. Haguro.

During the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, the building survived by being designated as the shrine’s Saikan (ritual lodging hall).

During the Edo period (1604–1868), more than thirty similar temple lodges existed on the mountain, but all were demolished. Today, Saikan is the only remaining structure from that era and stands as a rare architectural reminder of the Yamabushi life of the past.

Please note that shukubō accommodations are not hotels, but traditional pilgrim lodgings with a primarily religious purpose.

• Bathrooms, toilets, and dining spaces are shared.

• Guest rooms do not have locks.

• Heating is provided by kerosene stoves in winter and cooling by electric fans in summer.

• Bedding consists of Japanese futon laid directly on tatami flooring.

We ask all visitors to remain considerate of other guests and to respect the spiritual atmosphere of Dewa Sanzan by keeping noise to a minimum and behaving appropriately within this sacred site.

The shōjin-ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) served at Saikan is not vegan by default, as it includes bonito stock in the miso soup. If you require a vegan meal, please contact us in advance so arrangements can be made.

Thank you.

About this experience:

The price listed on this website includes the handling fee of a licensed Japanese travel agent, as reservations for Saikan must be made in Japanese by phone or fax.

If you speak Japanese, we encourage you to contact Saikan directly to book your stay:

Phone: (+81) 235-62-2357

Please make your reservation at least 6 business days in advance to allow our travel agents sufficient time to check availability and respond.