We went mountain climbing to Mt.Omine in Nara prefecture. Mt.Omine [1719m] is the birthplace of Shugendo, which was opened by the founder of Shugendo, EnnoGyoja,and there is a Shugendo Dojo.”Kanekakeiwa” climbs by relying on the chains of the rock wall and The training grounds such as “Nishinonozoki”, which is turned upside down from the cliff are very famous.
Three sacred sites in the Kii Mountains were named a UNESCO World Heritage site. The decision was taken at the July, 2004.
The three sacred mountains listed are Yoshino-Omine, in Nara Prefecture; Koyasan, in Wakayama Prefecture;and Kumano Sanzan,which leads to Koyasan.
It has been famous as a training center for Shugendo since the Heian period.
However, there are still places where “women are prohibited” in Mt.Omine.There is a gate of “nyonin kekkai mon” it mean that Women’s Barrier Gate. so Women cannot enter from there. A sign at the base of the path indicates that access to women is still not permitted due to the beliefs of this religion.
This is not due to discrimination against women, but to religious beliefs. If a couple comes here, they will not be able to climb together, so be careful.
This time, We trekked from the trailhead near the “Hahakodo”.Climbing the forest belt continues.The trails are well maintained, but be aware that there are narrow rocky traverses and collapsed areas.
Also, be aware that there will be steep stairs and chains.
There is a mountain hut part way up the mountain and the trail to Mt. Dainichi is steep.
Then, after climbing the steep climb for a while, you will reach the summit of Mt.Inamuragadake.
The area aroound Mt.Omine has been a training site of Shugendo mountain asceticism for some 1300 years.Many pilgrims are still practicing, and you may pass by a trainee in a special white costume.
You may also meet the Yamabushi during his training.They are not Ninja and Samurai but they practice special training every day.
Mt.Omine is not easy climb. However, it is a place where you can learn about the history of Japan, and it is also a beautiful mountain with a virgin forest registered as a World Heritage Site.
Please go to the deep forest.
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