A Path into the Mountains: Shugendō and Mount Togakushi

The book "A Path into the Mountains" offers a groundbreaking reexamination of Shugendō, a mysterious mountain religious system that has long fascinated scholars and the general public.

This comprehensive study provides a provocative new perspective on the historical development of Shugendō, tracing its origins through the mountains of Togakushi in Nagano Prefecture and situating it within the broader religious landscape of medieval and early modern Japan. By examining three recurrent elements - institution, ritual, and narrative - the author sheds new light on how practitioners implemented storytelling, new rituals, and festivals to merge Shugendō with the local culture while establishing social legitimacy and economic security.

The book also reveals how Shugendō moved from a patchwork of regional communities into a translocal system of national scope, becoming Japan's signature mountain religion. With its innovative approach and comprehensive analysis, "A Path into the Mountains" is an essential read for anyone interested in Japanese history, religion, or culture.

Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply someone curious about the mysteries of Shugendō, this book will provide you with a deeper understanding of this fascinating religious system and its place within Japan's rich cultural heritage.