At the Foot of the Southern Alps: A Sanctuary for Hikers — To Everyone Bound for Mt. Senjo and Mt. Higashi-Koma

Thank you for visiting the official blog of Yogoda Stay & Retreat.

While our previous posts have focused heavily on the genesis of Yogoda and our mystical pilgrimages through India, you might naturally be wondering, "Is this exclusively a sanctuary for practicing yoga?" While this space is indeed perfectly aligned for yoga and deep spiritual retreats, it was never designed to serve only a single purpose.

This retreat is a sacred container envisioned, designed, and meticulously hand-built through DIY renovations by my wife and me—created so that mountaineers, hikers, and wanderers of all kinds can dwell deeply, each in their own distinct style.

A Haven Forged Through a Hiker’s Gaze

In the year 2019, I immersed myself in a six-month traverse across the United States, walking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)—a vast, continuous ribbon of wilderness spanning approximately 4,200 kilometers.

Spending half a year in motion taught me a profound truth: the absolute vitality of having a "space to align the mind and body" before striking out onto the next phase of the journey. A clean, welcoming bed; a hot, comforting shower; a kitchen where one can consciously prepare their own nourishment; and above all, the exquisite joy of serendipitous connections with fellow travelers walking the exact same path. I have infused this retreat with a deep reverence for that essential "quality of daily life" required by hikers and mountaineers alike.

Access to Senryuso and the Strategic Geometry of Hase

The region of Hase is profoundly recognized as the ultimate gateway to the Southern Alps. Countless adventurers aiming for the summits of Mt. Senjo and Mt. Higashi-Koma (also known as Mt. Kai-Koma) naturally converge at "Todai Park," the central bus terminal and staging ground for the ascent.

Many arrive in this valley the night before just to secure early-morning bus tickets. For those who seek to step onto the sacred trails in absolute peak condition, fully prepared and centered, Yogoda provides a seamless, beautifully minimal lodging environment.

• Room-Only Dormitory Accommodations: We feature separate, spacious quarters for men and women, completely equipped with sturdy bunk beds. We offer a simple, transparent flat rate of 5,500 yen per person (tax inclusive).

• Seamless Self-Check-In: Arrivals are fully accommodated until 22:00, offering effortless integration for those traversing the highways into the night.

• Fully-Equipped Self-Catering Kitchen: The communal kitchen houses a complete array of culinary tools. Guests are welcome to bring organic ingredients from the nearest supermarket, "Nishizawa Shokusaikan," preparing their nourishment at their own perfect pace.

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• Bus Ticket Facilitation: To ensure you can preserve your vital energy without standing in the early morning queues, we gladly offer a complimentary concierge service to arrange your bus tickets in advance. Please feel free to reach out.

• Showering & Restroom Sanctuary:

  • Gender-Separated Shower Rooms: We feature two independent shower stalls each for both men and women. Whether washing away the dust of the trail or refreshing your spirit after an outdoor activity, you can completely rejuvenate your body.

  • Restroom Facilities: The building is fully equipped with well-maintained facilities, including two communal restrooms and one dedicated exclusively for women.

  

Before and After the Ascent: Dwelling Within the Spirit of Hase

The land cradled at the foot of the Southern Alps is not merely a place to pass through on your way to the peak; it is an incredible landscape worthy of a multi-day immersion. In recent years, Hase has witnessed a beautiful blossoming of magnetic shops operated by both native residents and passionate visionaries who have relocated here.

From a vibrant breakfast to a nourishing lunch and afternoon tea, spaces like "HASE DINER" and "Chico Cafe" offer exceptional comfort. For those seeking the raw vitality of the land, the wild gibier cuisine at "Noyama" awaits, alongside hearty, grounding lunches at "Miwa Shokudo" and "Yottekashi." Furthermore, spots like "Kura ZEN," "Bakery Charura," "Soshiji," and "Hase no Dangoya" provide serene alcoves where you can softly decompress and integrate your experiences after descending the mountain.

The outdoor activities are equally abundant: from the exhilarating mountain biking tracks of "Trail Cutter" to the high-vibrational altitudes of the "Karei Kogen Campground," and the world-renowned energy of "Bungui Pass"—allowing you to touch the highly unique atmosphere that only this specific coordinates of the earth can provide.

As an exclusive sanctuary benefit, guests staying at our retreat enjoy a 100 yen discount on all beverages at the attached "HASE DINER" (Open Friday through Sunday, 8:00–15:00).

In Closing

The act of mountaineering is, at its core, a sacred process of placing oneself entirely within the vastness of nature to realign and true the self. It is our deepest wish that Yogoda Stay & Retreat serves as a gentle, harmonious interlude within your magnificent journey across the peaks.

We also offer customized long-term sanctuary packages, so please feel free to inquire. May your time spent amidst the Southern Alps be filled with deep alignment, safety, and ultimate elevation.

We will continue to broadcast the magnificent dynamics of mountaineering in the Southern Alps and the distinct charms of dwelling in Hase. Stay tuned for what is to come.