Snow is here! For safety reasons, the pilgrimage route is closed until June 10th, 2026
The Rokujurigoe Kaido is the pilgrimage route leading to Mt. Yudono, the third sacred mountain of the Dewa Sanzan. Mt. Yudono lies on the flank of Mt. Gassan, one of the snowiest regions in all of Japan.
For many years, Nishikawa Town has recorded snowfall exceeding eight meters even in inhabited areas, earning it an unofficial reputation as “Japan’s No.1 Hidden Snow Country” (article).
This extreme snowfall is caused by Mt. Gassan (1,984 m), where cold winds and moisture-laden clouds from Siberia collide at the summit, releasing vast amounts of snow onto the surrounding foothills. These conditions heavily affect Nishikawa Town and Ōami and Tamugimata Hamlets in Tsuruoka City, near Mt. Yudono.
While these conditions make the area ideal for skiing and snowboarding—and we do recommend Mt. Yudono Ski Area for those seeking a small, hidden powder resort—they make hiking extremely dangerous.
Seasonal Trail Closure and Signage Removal
Due to the heavy snow accumulation, all trail signage is removed every autumn to prevent it from being crushed or damaged. The signs are reinstalled in spring once conditions are safe.
Signage removed: November 1
Signage reinstalled: June 10
Please do not attempt to hike the route while the signage is removed, and wait until the official reopening of the trail.
Why June 10th?
In Japanese, June 10 is written 6月10日, which can be shortened to 6・10 and pronounced Rokuju. This symbolic connection to the name Rokujurigoe Kaido has made June 10 our traditional opening date. By this time, most of the snow has melted, although snow patches may remain above 800 meters in elevation: extra caution is still required.
Please read our safety tips carefully before planning your hike.