Question 1

How do I get there from Yamadera Station?

Accepted Answer

Leave Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line and walk about 5-10 minutes to the foot of the climb (the gate). It is easy to reach by train from Sendai or from Yamagata City.

Question 2

Are there guides?

Accepted Answer

Guided visits are possible at 2,000 yen (conditions apply, such as a minimum of two people). Please contact the temple office in advance.

Question 3

Can children and older visitors make the climb?

Accepted Answer

There are 1,015 steps, so it takes some stamina. Many people from elementary school children to older visitors make the climb, but parts of the route are difficult for anyone with limited mobility. Visiting only the area around the Konpon Chudo is relatively easy walking.

Question 4

What are the opening hours and closed days?

Accepted Answer

Normally 8:00-17:00 (when the gates close), open every day. In winter (about December to March) the gates may close earlier depending on the weather, so please check the official website in advance.

Question 5

Can I visit in winter?

Accepted Answer

You can visit in winter, but snow and ice may bring the closing time forward, and you need non-slip shoes (spiked boots, for example). The snowy scenery in winter is magical and popular.

Question 6

Can I get a goshuin seal?

Accepted Answer

Goshuin seals are given at several places in the grounds, including the inner sanctuary and the Daibutsuden. Since the pandemic they are sometimes given as pre-written sheets, so please check on site.

Question 7

How long does a visit take?

Accepted Answer

There are 1,015 stone steps from the foot of the climb to the inner sanctuary, and the round trip takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Starting from Yamadera Station, allow about 2 hours in all.

Question 8

Can I take photographs?

Accepted Answer

Photographing the buildings from outside, the approach and the scenery is generally allowed. There may be restrictions inside the halls and the treasure hall. Please follow the signs on site.

Question 9

How much does it cost to enter?

Accepted Answer

Entry to the mountain (from the gate to the inner sanctuary) is 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for junior high school students and 100 yen for children aged 4 and over. The treasure hall is a further 200 yen for adults and 100 yen for children, and the inner sanctuary of the Konpon Chudo a further 200 yen. Group discounts apply for 30 or more.

Question 10

What shoes should I wear on the steps?

Accepted Answer

Non-slip shoes such as trainers are recommended. In winter there is snow and ice, so shoes with grips, such as spiked boots, are safer.

Question 11

What should I look out for?

Accepted Answer

The three great sights are the mossy stone steps from the gate to the inner sanctuary, the halls clinging to the rock faces, and the 360-degree view from the Godaido hall. The Konpon Chudo is the oldest beech-built structure in Japan and a national Important Cultural Property. The Semizuka monument to Matsuo Basho's haiku and the Kaizando hall are also not to be missed.

Question 12

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

There are several paid car parks around Yamadera. Using certain restaurants can make parking free. Please check the official website or the information on site.

Question 13

What are the opening hours?

Accepted Answer

8:00-17:00 (in winter 8:30-16:30).

Question 14

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 5-10 minutes' walk from Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line to the foot of the climb.

Question 15

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.

Question 16

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture

Question 17

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Entry to the mountain: adults 300 yen, junior high school students 200 yen, children (age 4 and over) 100 yen. Treasure hall: adults 200 yen, children 100 yen. Inner sanctuary of the Konpon Chudo: 200 yen.

Question 18

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Open every day (the gates may close earlier in winter).

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