Akagami Shrine Goshado
Ascend the legendary 999 steps to a sacred shrine complex, steeped in ogre lore and the birthplace of Namahage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer climb, better views
Akagami Shrine Goshado
Best Time
Safer climb, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend the legendary 999 steps to a sacred shrine complex, steeped in ogre lore and the birthplace of Namahage.
"The arduous 999 steps are a test of will, but the spiritual reward at the top is immense."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 999 steps are uneven and can be slippery. Wear hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers for a safe climb.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no amenities beyond a toilet and self-service talisman window. Stay hydrated on your climb!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary 999 Steps
Ascent from Goshado parking lot
An arduous, uneven climb said to be built by an ogre in one night. A true test of endurance!
The Five Shrines
Summit of the climb
A sacred complex of five shrines, offering a sense of accomplishment and spiritual peace.
Namahage Origin Site
Shrine complex
Discover the birthplace of the iconic Namahage folklore, adding a layer of cultural depth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The 999 Steps Challenge
Bear Safety & Shrine Lore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 999 steps are uneven and can be slippery. Wear hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers for a safe climb.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no amenities beyond a toilet and self-service talisman window. Stay hydrated on your climb!
🐻 Bear Bell for Safety
While encounters are rare, carrying a bear bell is a recommended precaution for the mountain path.
📜 Read the Legend
A sign at the parking lot explains the ogre and Namahage lore. It adds context to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The 999 steps are uneven and can be slippery. Wear hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers for a safe climb.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no amenities beyond a toilet and self-service talisman window. Stay hydrated on your climb!
🐻 Bear Bell for Safety
While encounters are rare, carrying a bear bell is a recommended precaution for the mountain path.
📜 Read the Legend
A sign at the parking lot explains the ogre and Namahage lore. It adds context to your visit.
📸 Capture the Views
The climb offers glimpses of the beautiful Oga Peninsula. Take breaks to enjoy the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the challenging 999-step climb to the sacred five shrines at Akagami Shrine Goshado, often described as a spiritual and rewarding pilgrimage. The unique legends of ogres and Namahage add to its allure, though the strenuous, uneven path and lack of amenities require thorough preparation.
"This is a complex of 5 shrines to various deities, and is on the other end of the ancient pilgrimage route across the mountains from Shinzan Shrine. There is a sign in English by the parking lot that explains the legend behind the area, the ogre stories, and the origin of the monumental stone stairway up to the shrine buildings. It is only 20 minutes, but steep in spots and treacherous when wet, so wear appropriate shoes! Besides a toilet at the parking lot and self-service window for buying lucky talismans, there is no staff and no amenities, so bring water etc."
aaron meldahl
"Unusual shrine in a beautiful corner of Oga Peninsula. The short uphill hike to get to the shrine makes it even more interesting."
Antonio Arribas
"I found this on a local tourist map! I thought, "I have to go!" and looked at the map, and saw a bear! I read a review and it said there were 99 steps. I arrived, thinking that if I sprinted up the stairs, quickly paid my respects, and then sprinted back down, I might not be able to beat the bear. There were walking sticks at the entrance, so I picked the thickest one. I started swinging it around, thinking, "If a bear comes along, I'll smash it!" After passing a shrine with a somewhat Chinese feel, stone steps appeared. They were actually more like a rocky area with uneven steps. "Ninety-nine steps won't do!" I thought, and started climbing, but no matter how high I climbed, the shrine was nowhere to be seen. That's strange, isn't it? We hadn't even brought water, intending to head back soon. About halfway up, my companion noticed a rock. "Hey, it's not ninety-nine steps. It's nine hundred and ninety-nine steps!" What? Three nines? 999? That review was wrong! The person who wrote it! Ninety-nine steps are scarier than a bear! Hardship and hardship!
Water! I finally arrived at the five shrines and went to the shrine office, but it was empty. It was me who took the plastic bottle of water from the office, leaving a 100-yen coin behind. There were also boxes of spare large plastic bottles.
ヾ(ﾟдﾟ;)Sorry
It was so hot I nearly collapsed on the brink of heatstroke, so please forgive me.
Also, apparently the Akagami here is tall and incredibly handsome. The Goddess of Lake Towada fell in love with her. Kurokami of Tsugaru heard rumors that the Goddess of Lake Towada was beautiful, so he came to see her and fell in love at first sight. Kurokami (Raoh) and the tall, handsome Akagami (a skinny, slender Kenshiro) fought over the Goddess of Lake Towada (Yuria). Akagami lost the one-on-one fight with Kurokami. Kurokami is Yuria! From today on, you're mine! He cried out in a loud voice, but the goddess brushed off his hand and went to join Akagami, who had fled to Oga with an injured hand. They had three children and lived happily ever after. This is the epic love story. The five shrines are said to enshrine Akagami, Megami, and their three children. It was worth climbing the arduous 999 stone steps."
Sun fish
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akagami Shrine Goshado is located on the Oga Peninsula. From JR Oga Station, it's a drive of about 20 minutes towards the west coast. Parking is available at the Goshado parking lot. 
Public transportation options are limited. It's best accessed by car or taxi. Local buses may not run frequently to this specific location.
The primary access is via the legendary 999 stone steps, which are a steep and uneven mountain path. Walking sticks are available at the entrance.
The drive from JR Oga Station is approximately 20 minutes. The climb up the 999 steps takes about 20-30 minutes one way, depending on your pace.
Yes, Akagami Shrine Goshado is often visited alongside other Oga Peninsula attractions like the Namahage Statue, Komachido, and Gozanoishi Shrine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter the shrine complex. However, lucky talismans are available for purchase from a self-service window.
The shrine is generally accessible year-round, as it's an outdoor site. The climb is best done during daylight hours for safety.
No, there is no specific fee to climb the 999 stone steps. It's part of the natural access to the shrine.
Yes, lucky talismans (omamori) can be purchased from a self-service window at the shrine.
It's gaining popularity, especially on social media, for its unique legend and challenging climb. It's considered a 'power spot'.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a challenging ascent of 999 uneven stone steps, often described as a mountain path. It takes about 20-30 minutes and requires good physical condition.
Basic facilities include a toilet at the parking lot. There are no staff on-site, and amenities are very limited.
The shrine is associated with the legend of an ogre building the 999 steps in one night and is considered the birthplace of Namahage folklore.
It is not recommended to climb the steps when wet, as they become very slippery and treacherous. Check the weather forecast before your visit.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. A bear bell is also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The stone steps themselves offer dramatic perspectives. The shrine complex at the top provides a spiritual atmosphere. The surrounding nature is also beautiful.
Yes, the uneven terrain and steepness can make it challenging to focus on photography while climbing. It's best to take photos during breaks or at the top.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting. However, prioritize safety and visibility when climbing.
There are no specific regulations mentioned, but it's always best to check local drone laws and be respectful of the sacred site.
A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the steps and shrines. A sturdy tripod might be difficult to use on the uneven path.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, it's essential to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the top. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the shrines can be a great motivator for older children. However, assess your children's capabilities realistically before attempting the climb. Alternatively, enjoying the views from the parking area and learning about the legends might be a more suitable option for some families.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
Solo visitors should prioritize safety by informing someone of their plans, carrying a fully charged phone, and being prepared with water and snacks. The availability of walking sticks at the entrance is helpful. The legend of the ogre and the historical significance of the site add an intriguing layer to the solo exploration.
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
+1Culture enthusiasts will be captivated by the shrine's deep connection to the Namahage folklore and the legend of the ogre. The opportunity to explore a site considered the birthplace of such a significant cultural tradition is a major draw. Take time to read the informational signs and absorb the historical context of this sacred place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the 999 Steps
This legend is deeply intertwined with the shrine's cultural significance, particularly its connection to the Namahage folklore. The shrine is considered the birthplace of this tradition, where ogre-like figures visit homes on New Year's Eve to scare lazy children and encourage good behavior. The challenging climb and the ancient lore create a unique and memorable experience for those who visit.
When planning your visit, remember that the steps are not for the faint of heart. Wear appropriate footwear, bring ample water, and be prepared for a strenuous but rewarding ascent. The effort is often described as being worth the spiritual and scenic payoff at the top.
Exploring the Five Shrines
Visitors often describe a feeling of deep spiritual connection upon reaching the Goshado. The isolation and the effort required to get there contribute to a profound sense of achievement and mindfulness. It's a place where one can reflect on the legends, the natural beauty, and personal journeys.
While the shrines themselves are the main draw at the summit, the journey there is an integral part of the experience. The sense of discovery as you ascend, passing by unique natural features and the well mentioned in some accounts, builds anticipation for the sacred space that awaits.
Practicalities for Your Pilgrimage
Amenities at the shrine are minimal. There is a toilet facility at the parking lot, and you can purchase lucky talismans from a self-service window. However, there are no shops or restaurants on-site. Therefore, it is highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks. Many visitors emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, especially during warmer months.
For those concerned about wildlife, carrying a bear bell is a common recommendation among hikers and visitors to the Oga Peninsula. While encounters are not frequent, it's a sensible precaution for any trek in a natural mountain environment. Reading the English sign at the parking lot about the shrine's legends and history will also enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit