Masters Yamabushi Training

The Masters Yamabushi Training is Yamabushido’s signature and most intensive program, a seven‑day experience including Yamabushi training (Shugyo – intensive mountain practice) on all three of the Dewa Sanzan mountains.

Guided by 13th‑generation Yamabushi Master Fumihiro Hoshino, fellow Daishobo and Daishinbo Yamabushi, and Zen masters, it offers a complete introduction to the Yamabushi tradition through mountain ascents, Zen practice, and traditional Yamabushi rituals.

Experience the full cycle of Yamabushi training on all three Dewa Sanzan mountains in one week
Complete the sacred cycle of rebirth by moving through the mountains of the present, past, and future
Take part in practices like Zen meditation, waterfall meditation, hiking, night walks, and intentional silence that connect you fully with the present moment
Join a small group of fellow participants who are serious about meaningful change
Train directly under 13th-generation Yamabushi Master Fumihiro Hoshino

The Masters Yamabushi Training is for those at a turning point in their lives, or people simply seeking genuine growth, self-discovery, or clarity. You might be facing a major decision, recovering from burnout, or simply hungry for deeper meaning.

What matters most is your willingness to challenge yourself, embrace discomfort, and step fully into the present moment. You don't need prior meditation or hiking experience. But you do need:

Openness to let go of control and trust the process
Comfort with long days of physical activity (6–8 hours of hiking daily)
Willingness to embrace silence, simplicity, and minimal creature comforts
Genuine curiosity about yourself and what's possible

Master Fumihiro Hoshino (80) has been leading Yamabushi training for over 60 years, guiding thousands of practitioners across Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, and Brazil. As one of fewer than 50 Yamabushi worldwide to complete the grueling 100-day Fuyunomine Winter Peak Ritual, his mastery is both lineage-based and hard-won.

Master Hoshino's yamabushi philosophy centers on soul-sensing over overthinking—a direct, embodied approach to practice that cuts through mental clutter:

"Put simply, sensing with your soul is everything. Do everything as your soul senses and you will have no trouble. Trouble happens when we get stuck in our heads. We make things difficult for ourselves precisely because we overthink. Start by sensing with your soul, you will have no trouble. Act at the whim of your soul, and things will go smoothly."

Under his guidance, the Masters Training is not just physical endurance—it's a path to clarity, intuition, and grounded decision-making drawn from 1,400 years of mountain wisdom.

Join a global community of practitioners. Many participants stay connected through active alumni WhatsApp groups that remain vibrant years after training.

"It changed me as a person significantly for the better. I didn't come in looking for that—I just wanted the experience. But it will change each person differently." — A. P.

"I came out of this training more aware, mentally stronger, spiritually aware, and more focused than before." — A. S.

"I feel lighter, happier, more focused, and grounded." — T. B.

Days 1–2: Disconnection in a Zen monastery
An opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and prepare for the week ahead. You stay in an ancient Japanese Zen environment and begin to connect with your inner self and the spirit of the mountains.

Days 3–5: Yamabushi training on the Dewa Sanzan
Days three to five are spent training in the ways of the Yamabushi directly under Master Hoshino and other Haguro yamabushi on all three of the Dewa Sanzan mountains. This includes mountain ascents, waterfall meditation, and other traditional practices.

Days 6–7: Reconnection on Mt. Haguro
The week finishes with two days of self‑reflection and reconnection on Mt. Haguro. Through Yamabushi‑based activities and quiet time, you explore how to bring what you experienced back into everyday life.

How fit do I need to be?
You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with several hours of walking on uneven, sometimes steep mountain paths for multiple days in a row. If you can manage full‑day hikes with rest breaks and are willing to be outside in changing weather, you are likely fit enough for this training.

What happens after I apply?
After you contact us, we read your message carefully and reply during our business hours to answer any immediate questions. In many cases we suggest a short video call, so we can understand your intentions and fitness level and help you decide whether the Masters training is the right program and timing for you.

Is the Masters Yamabushi Training suitable for first‑timers?
Yes. While the Masters Training is our most intensive program, first‑time participants regularly join. Our guides support each person closely throughout the training so you are not left to manage the mountains alone.

What language is the training conducted in?
The training itself is largely non‑verbal and conducted in silence. Full guidance and support are provided in English by bilingual staff before, during, and after the main Yamabushi practice.

Where do we stay during the training?
During the Masters Yamabushi Training you stay in a Zen temple and traditional pilgrim lodges at the base of Mt. Haguro, such as Daishōbō. Accommodation is simple and shared, in keeping with the spirit of Shugend practice and helping you focus on the training rather than comfort.

YAMABUSHIDO

YAMABUSHIDO

MASTERS YAMABUSHI TRAINING
ON THE DEWA SANZAN