A large cedar tree around Sasago Pass is thought to be 1,000 years old. It is about 28 m high, and the circumference at the base is 14.8 m. It was designated a Natural Monument by Yamanashi Prefecture in 1960.
During the Warring States Period (1467-1603), warriors heading to a battle beyond the Sasago Pass shot arrows at this cedar tree as a prayer for victory, giving it its name, “Yatate Cedar Tree.” After the development of the old Koshu-kaido Road, many travelers stopped to rest here on their way over the pass. Now decks and benches allow visitors to relax while viewing Yatate Cedar Tree.
The road going beyond the Sasago Pass and heading to Komakai-shuku (Koshu City) in the Midwestern part of Yamanashi Prefecture, including the walking path to Yatate Cedar Tree, is included as “Koshu-kaido Road via Sasago Pass” in the 100 Best Historic Roads. Near the Yatate Cedar Tree, there is a stone monument bearing the inscription “The Site that Emperor Meiji Visited” commemorating the emperor’s stop at Sasago Pass to rest during his Imperial tour in 1880.

COURSE MAP

Let's go to the next spot!