About Mount Osore

Mount Osore is one of the most famous sacred sites in Japan, located on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture, and is a tourist attraction known for its unique scenery and spiritual atmosphere. Founded by Jikaku Daishi Ennin about 1,200 years ago, the site has long been worshipped as "a place where the spirits of the dead gather. Mt. Mount Osore is characterized by a desolate landscape spreading out over a volcanic area, with the smell of sulfur and the gushing hot springs and steam creating an extraordinary world.

Mount Osore's most distinctive features are its desolate landscape and spiritual atmosphere. The large and small Jizo statues dotting the rocky terrain and the countless windmills lined up in a row evoke a unique feeling in visitors. In particular, it is said to be a place where one can experience "hell" and "paradise" at the same time. While the gray rocky terrain and hot springs with a sulfuric smell remind one of hell, the beautiful Uzori Lake stretches nearby, its tranquil surface evoking the calm of paradise. The combination of these contrasting landscapes is the main attraction of Mount Osore and leaves a deep impression on visitors.

Mount Osore's aspect as a sacred site is also part of its charm. It is a place where many worshippers visit to comfort the spirits of the dead. It is especially famous for "Itako no Kuchiyose," or the summertime "Mount Osore Grand Festival," during which itako (stone warriors) gather to perform a ritual to summon the spirits of the deceased. This custom is rarely seen in other parts of Japan, and is a cultural experience that reminds us of the spiritual uniqueness of Mount Osore.

Mount Osore also has numerous hot springs, and worshippers can enjoy these hot springs. The hot springs contain sulfur, which is believed to have a smoothing effect on the skin. The open-air baths, such as "Bosatsu no Yu" and "Yakushi no Yu," are especially popular among visitors, who can heal their bodies and minds in the hot springs while enjoying the solemn atmosphere of this sacred site.

Mount Osore is a special place that leaves a strong impression on visitors because of its unique natural environment, history, and culture. The experience of this place, where death and rebirth, hell and paradise, reality and unreality coexist, offers deep impressions and insights that cannot be found anywhere else.