- Culture
- Aomori
Oyama Sankei (Mount Iwaki)
Purify your heart at the sacred Mount Iwaki
Mount Iwaki, the highest peak in Aomori, is often referred to as the Tsugaru Fuji because of its beautiful conical shape. The mountain serves as a spiritual symbol for the local people and has long been worshipped. Oyama Sankei is a traditional event held over three days in September every year in which a large number of worshippers climb the mountain to pray for a bountiful harvest and household safety. On the last day, participants march to the top of the mountain and revere the light of the rising sun.
First to second day
During the three-day event, a group of worshippers walk up the path to Iwakiyama Shrine on the first day referred to as “Mukaiyama.” On the following day, called “Yoiyama,” worshippers dressed in white attire parade from the Hirosaki City Iwaki Office to the shrine holding golden “gohei” sacred wands and colorful banners chanting “saigi, saigi” to the accompaniment of traditional drums and flutes.
Last day (third day)
On “Tsuitachiyama,” or the last day of the event held on August 1 on the lunar calendar, participants start climbing to the summit through rocky terrain at the midnight hours, relying only on a flashlight. Upon reaching the top, they pray with their palms together as the sun rises.
Experience tour
When the event was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset in 1984, the annual “Let's Walk: Oyama Sankei” was organized to allow more people experience this cultural event. Through this program, participants can experience the Yoiyama on the second day.
Location
| Name | Oyama Sankei (Mount Iwaki) |
|---|---|
| Website | https://aomori-tourism.com/en/event/detail_8026.html |
| Address | 27 Terasawa, Momozawa, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori (Iwakiyama Shrine) |
| Access | Approximately 40 minutes by bus from JR Hirosaki Station Approcimately 2 hours 30 minutes by bus from Aomori Airport |