1. About the Sanbyakubo area

・The naturally rich West Zao Plateau and Mt. Takiyama

When looking at the Zao mountain range from Yamagata City, Mount Takiyama is the first mount that appears in the foreground.

The abundant water flowing from these steep mountains creates a group of waterfalls known as the “48 Waterfalls,” which have enriched people’s lives since ancient times.

At the foot of Mt. Takiyama, on the West Zao Plateau, lies an area called “Sanbyakubo.”

It is said that there were once as many as 300 monks’ quarters here, and it flourished as a major training center for Takiyama Shugendo.

This place, where history and nature intertwine, is a mysterious area that is not normally accessible.

・Log House Sanbyakubo

The reception venue for this tour is Log House Sanbyakubo.


The massive log house, constructed entirely from Aomori cypress using vertical construction, was created by the same carpenters who worked on the Five-storied Pagoda at Jogi Nyorai Saihoji Temple.

The space is filled with the scent of wood and the warmth of time passing, giving you a sense of the start of a special experience.

This experience will allow you to enjoy chestnut picking and a bonfire lunch in the historic West Zao Sanbyakubo area.

2. Activity introduction

① Meet at the Log House Sanbyakubo

The experience begins at the Log House Sanbyakubo.


We gather in a building with a comfortable, warm wooden interior, where a staff member will explain the schedule for the day.
I’m excited to see what kind of experiences await me in this natural setting.

② 10:00~11:00 Chestnut picking

When we left the log house, a refreshing view of the countryside spread out before us!

The clear autumn sky and the distant mountains are very beautiful.

There is also a large stone torii gate nearby.

The scenery, which exudes history and natural energy, makes you stop and take photos.

From here, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the chestnut grove.

Just walking along the path surrounded by nature while listening to the murmuring of the river is already an extraordinary experience.

When you arrive at the chestnut grove, you will see shiny chestnuts scattered around your feet.

I think it varies depending on the time of year, but on the day I participated, it was really packed (lol).

It’s so exciting to find beautiful chestnuts!

Both adults and children will enjoy harvesting.

Tongs and bags were provided, so we were able to concentrate on picking chestnuts without worry.
(Please bring your own gloves)

Another attraction of the spacious chestnut grove is that everyone can enjoy picking at their own pace in their favorite spot.

You don’t often get the chance to see chestnuts growing on trees, so you’ll want to take some photos!

3. 11:00~13:00 Roasted chestnuts over a bonfire & autumn lunch

The chestnuts you harvest are then put on a bonfire right there. What a luxurious experience!

It was also pleasant to wait while listening to the crackling of the fire.

The roasted chestnuts are piping hot, and when you put them in your mouth, their sweet, fluffy flavor spreads throughout your mouth.

And for lunch we had chestnut rice and wild boar hotpot!

The wild boar meat from the West Zao region was very delicious, with its mild flavor reduced thanks to the careful processing by local hunters.

The hot pot was flavored with a strong dashi broth and was delicious, warming me from the inside out.

Eating a meal around a bonfire in the middle of nature is also exceptional.

Enjoying a dish while sitting around a bonfire was an exceptional experience, and for someone like me who loves eating food in nature, it was a very enjoyable experience!

④ Log House Sanbyakubo Activity End

With stomachs and hearts full, the activity comes to an end. Once participants have finished eating, they disperse one by one.


The staff told me that “this area is beautiful at night with fireflies and a starry sky,” so I would like to experience it at night next time.

It was the perfect day to create some autumn memories, with everyone naturally saying, “I want to come again!”

You can also take home the chestnuts you harvest for 500 yen/500g (sold by weight), so be sure to enjoy making chestnut dishes at home.

3. Summary

We experienced chestnut picking and a bonfire lunch in Sanbyakubo, West Zao, a special area where history and nature live on.


Not only did I get to eat delicious food, but the experience of picking the chestnuts myself and roasting and tasting them on the spot was a truly memorable experience.

It’s a truly extraordinary activity to enjoy the autumn harvest with all your senses in a place that is normally difficult to access.


This activity allows you to spend time relaxing surrounded by nature, making it a perfect outing for family and friends.

Why not visit and make some autumn memories?