Michinoku Coastal Trail Extended

The easiest way to reach Hachinohe is by bullet train from Tokyo via the Hayabusa Line toward Shin-Aomori. Trains depart roughly every hour, with the journey taking just under 3 hours. Upon arrival at Hachinohe Station, transfer to the local Hachinohe Line for a short ride to Hon-Hachinohe Station.

With accommodation conveniently located in the downtown area, you have an ideal base for exploring the city’s culture and heritage. Consider visiting the nearby Hachinohe Portal Museum, where interactive exhibits highlight the region’s natural beauty and history. Art lovers may also enjoy the Hachinohe Art Museum.

In the evening, dive into the local food scene with a visit to one of Hachinohe’s traditional izakayas. Explore the atmospheric back alleys to discover hidden eateries serving up local specialties in a cosy, welcoming setting. Hachinohe offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture. While English isn’t widely spoken, this only deepens the connection with the community and the richness of your journey.

Today begins with an easy journey from Hon-Hachinohe to Same (pronounced Sah-meh) station. From there, a short stroll will lead you to the Sanriku Fukku National Park and the Kabushima Shrine, marking the northernmost point of the Tanesashi Coast and the official start (or end) point of the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Hachinohe, renowned as a vital industrial fishing port, has a long-standing tradition of locals visiting the Kabushima Shrine to seek blessings for prosperity in their businesses and fishing endeavours. The area surrounding the shrine serves as a habitat for black-tailed gulls from late February to August. After exploring the shrine, a brief walk alongside the road leads to the Ashigezaki Viewpoint. This vantage point, once an observation post during WWII, offers stunning views along the coastline. You may also like to indulge in some of the region’s finest ice cream or donuts at the nearby café. This section of the trail showcases wildflowers from spring to autumn, adding to its picturesque scenery.

Continuing south, you’ll soon reach Osuka Beach, offering a refreshing opportunity for a dip, weather permitting. You’ll pass by some fishing huts before entering the Yodo Pine Grove, characterised by majestic black pines, some dating back over a century. The grove also features the Shira-Iwa or ‘White rock’, a nesting spot for Japanese cormorants. Emerging from the pine grove, you’ll reach the Tanesashi Coast Natural Lawn, once a grazing ground for horses until the mid-50s. This is a great spot to take a break and savour the panoramic ocean views. You may like to grab some lunch from the café adjacent to the Tanesashi-Kaigan Information Centre. The centre, which is also worth a visit, offers insights into the unique ecosystem along this coastline. After taking in the surroundings, take a train from Tanesashi to Taneichi Station with a stay tonight in the scenic and tranquil coastal town of Hirono.

Options for enhancement:

Option 1: If your arrangements commence on a Saturday, we recommend taking the opportunity to explore the Tatehana Wharf Sunday Market before starting your walk today. This bustling market features around 300 stalls offering an array of delectable treats including tasty meat skewers, dumplings, fresh fruit, bakery items, and coffee. It’s also ideal to stock up on provisions for the day’s hike.

Option 2: For those seeking an extended walk, you can continue south from Tanesashi for another 2.3km to Okuki Station, approximately a half-hour stroll and catch the train to Taneichi Station from there.

Meals: B, D

This morning, board the train to Fudai (with a transfer in Kuji) – your starting point for today’s hike along the dramatic Sanriku Coast. Leaving this peaceful coastal town, you’ll follow a roadside path past Fudai’s school and the remarkable 15.5m-high seawall known as the ‘Miracle Floodgate’. This massive structure famously shielded the town during the 2011 tsunami and markers on the wall show the terrifying height the waves once reached.

As you continue along the road, you’ll pass through several tunnels, each opening up to breathtaking vistas of the Pacific. Consider stopping for lunch at a quiet fishing port, where the sea breeze and gentle waves make for a perfect break (alternatively, grab a packed lunch at Fudai station when getting off the train).

Just beyond the port, you’ll reach the Nedari Nature Trail – a highlight of the walk. On clear days, the ocean here sparkles like an open aquarium, making it an ideal place to slow your pace and soak in the scenery. After a short tunnel carved through the cliffs, a steep staircase leads you to the Kurasaki-so Observation Point. Explore the nearby area before settling into your accommodation.

Option If you would like additional hiking along this stretch of coast, you can request a second night here and hike the 9.5km from Kurasaki-so to the stunning Kitayamazaki Lookout. This stretch of coastline offers sweeping sea views and rolling terrain, with a steep descent followed by a challenging final climb to the Visitor Centre – your reward: one of the most iconic vistas on the Sanriku Coast.

Meals: B, D

This morning your journey commences with a transfer to the Kitayamazaki Lookout and the beginning of today’s challenging hike. While the distance covered may not be extensive, the ascents and descents over the next few kilometres will prove to be a challenge and slow you down. However, the rewards will be well worth the effort, as you’ll be treated to incredible views and stunning scenery along the way. Adequate training for this trail is crucial, especially today, as it is considered the most demanding day of the entire trail.

The hike begins with a stair descent to the beach before heading inland to navigate through the forest. As you progress, you’ll encounter a series of stairs to ascend out of the valley, followed by a winding trail along the cliff-top. Further along, a shorter descent leads to another stretch of valley before another climb, followed by a descent down log stairs. Afterward, you’ll hike up and around the next ridgeline before arriving at Tsukue Beach. Continuing along, the trail will lead you across a series of beaches and through several tunnels. These hand-carved tunnels, though only a few hundred meters in length, are pitch dark, requiring a head torch for navigation. To reach one of the tunnels, you’ll need to walk around a large rock. On the rare occasion that the tide is too high, you’ll need to descend a ladder, which is a few metres high and is affixed to the rock. There’s a short stretch of easy rock-hopping before the last tunnel. You’ll then ascend from the beach, which includes two short, affixed ladders and a series of log stairs.

Returning into the forest, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views along the coast until reaching the fisherman’s huts at Tsukue-hama Beach. Following a well-deserved break, you’ll walk briefly alongside the road before returning to the trail and ascending log steps. You’ll enjoy beautiful views overlooking Tsukue-hama Beach before continuing onward to Aketo Beach. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Rikuchu Bentenzaki Lighthouse, offering panoramic views to the north and south.

The trail rejoins the sea road and you’ll soon arrive at the Aketo Seawall Monument. It’s just a short distance further on to your accommodation. After checking in, take the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate with a well-deserved soak in the soothing onsen.

Meals: B, L, D

After breakfast you’ll have a short transfer south along the coast, skipping some of the trail’s longer road sections. Your first stop is the striking Shiofuki-ana Blowhole, a dramatic coastal viewpoint where, if conditions are right, you may witness seawater erupting up to 30m into the air through a natural sea cave below. This fascinating geological feature, designated a national natural monument, is most impressive during northeast winds and rough seas. From this lookout, you’ll also have views of Hideshima Island – another protected natural monument, famous as Japan’s largest habitat for the endangered Madeiran storm petrel.

With the coastal scenery fresh in your mind, you’ll begin your hike, which features a series of climbs and descents offering ever-changing views of the rugged shoreline. The trail winds inland, crossing a gentle stream before climbing out of the valley. You’ll pass through a rich forest landscape filled with towering pines, graceful firs, vibrant maples, Japanese magnolias and a striking grove of giant bamboo – an enchanting segment of the trail that leads you toward the peaceful Takonohama Fishing Port.

The final stretch hugs the cliffs and includes a couple of short tunnels before emerging at the scenic shores of Jodogahama Beach. This beautiful spot is perfect for a break – consider enjoying a relaxed lunch at the nearby resthouse. Further along, the Jodogahama Visitor Centre offers fascinating insights into the area’s natural and cultural history. On warmer days, you may want to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the bay. Alternatively, unwind at your accommodation with a rejuvenating soak in the onsen – a perfect way to treat yourself after a rewarding and occasionally challenging day on the trail.

Meals: B, D

Your day begins with a transfer to Omoe Fishing Port, set against the rugged scenery of the Omoe Peninsula. From here, embark on a rewarding coastal walk that climbs gradually to the day’s highest point – around 100m above sea level – where sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic shoreline open before you.

The route continues along a quiet stretch of coast before leading into a shaded forest trail. This peaceful section brings you out to Cape Todogasaki, the easternmost point of Honshu. Here you can pause to enjoy lunch, explore the striking white lighthouse and soak in the unforgettable ocean vistas from this symbolic headland.

Following the Michinoku Coastal Trail, the path offers expansive views over Aneyoshi Fishing Port before gently descending toward Aneyoshi Campground, a secluded spot near the water’s edge.

To end the day, a pre-arranged taxi will take you to your accommodation in Yamada. Framed by forested hills and calm inlets, this fishing town is celebrated for its seafood delicacies – particularly oysters and sea urchin – and provides a serene and authentic glimpse into Tohoku’s maritime heritage.

Meals: B, D

This morning begins with a scenic rail journey from Yamada to Iwate Funakoshi Station, the starting point for an unforgettable day on the Michinoku Coastal Trail. The route leads across the striking Ushikorobashi Pass, a section steeped in local stories and natural charm. The name translating to “the cow that falls over” comes from the pass’s unusual sloping ridge, a playful nod to the character of the terrain.

The climb is gradual yet steady, with stone steps guiding you upward through forested paths to a panoramic lookout just shy of 300m. From here, sweeping 270-degree views of the coastline and bays stretch out before you, offering a spectacular reward for your ascent. This part of the trail blends effort with tranquility, making it one of the most memorable sections of the journey.

Descending from the ridge, the path leads toward a secluded beach where you can pause for lunch before continuing on through wooded trails. The hike then eases down to Aragami Swimming Beach, a serene cove with soft white sand and a nearby shrine that brings a quiet spiritual atmosphere. Take time to unwind, dip your toes in the water, or simply enjoy the calm seaside setting.

From Aragami, walk back to Iwate Funakoshi Station and board the short train to Unosumai. A quick shuttle will then bring you to Kamaishi, where your comfortable accommodation awaits for the night.

Meals: B, D

After breakfast your host will transfer you back to Kamaishi station. After a scenic train ride to Tōni Station, you begin your hike along a peaceful forested section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail. This stretch follows part of the historic Hama-kaido, once a vital trade route linking the inland city of Sendai with the coast. In the Edo Period, goods like salt, seafood and iron flowed along this path under the watch of the powerful Date clan.

The trail climbs steadily through the woods, weaving up a series of switchbacks to the 400m-high Kuwadai Pass, where you can pause to enjoy lunch. This section of the old Sendai-Hachinohe highway, known as the Sanriku Hamakaido, runs between Kesennuma and Hachinohe. Near the Kuwadai Pass on the Kamaishi–Ofunato border, a preserved stone path offers a chance to walk and experience the atmosphere of this ancient coastal road. You’ll descend into the village of Yoshihama, wisely relocated to higher ground after the 1896 tsunami – a decision that saved it in 2011. From Yoshihama, you’ll take a train on to Ofunato, where you settle in for the night, perhaps with a restorative soak in the onsen.

Meals: B, D

Departing Ofunato this morning, you’ll take the local bus a short distance to Hosoura Station and from here you’ll commence today’s hike.

The hike from Hosoura station to the Anatoshi-iso rock takes you along the road up through the quaint fishing village of Hosoura to the forested area around Anatoshi-iso.

You’ll start your hike on a path taking you through dense forest, making your way towards the beautiful Goishi Coast. The trail is mostly easy, with gentle climbs, the highest reaching just under 100m. As you pass through pine and cypress trees, you’ll encounter several scenic vantage points offering stunning views of the coastline. The clear blue and turquoise waters of the Goishi Coast, contrasting with the grey rocks and lush greenery, create an idyllic setting for the hike.

One of the highlights of the day is Anatoshi-iso Rock, known for its three natural arches shaped by the ocean. Further along, the Goishi Kaigan Information Centre provides a great place to rest, with facilities including a campground and observation deck. From here, you’ll also encounter Kaminari-iwa, a towering rock that makes a loud noise when waves crash against it, earning its name from the Japanese word for thunder.

The trail continues past Goishihama Beach, famous for its black and white pebbles. From Goishikaigan-guchi station, you’ll take a local bus to Rikuzentakata, your rest point for the evening.

Meals: B, D  

After breakfast take the hotel shuttle to the Rikuzentakata Memorial, a powerful site honouring the city’s recovery after the 2011 tsunami. Explore the moving exhibits and visit the ‘Miracle Pine’, the lone tree that stood against the waves. Take time to reflect  before boarding a BRT bus from nearby Kiseki-no Ipponmatsu station to Otomo station – the starting point for today’s scenic walk along the Hirota Bay course, a tranquil coastal trail known for its serene waters, rugged shoreline, and peaceful atmosphere.

The route begins with some road walking, leading you toward the midpoint of the Michinoku Coastal Trail. As you walk, you’ll pass through charming fishing villages and lush forested areas, gradually leaving the bay behind and entering a mountainous section of the trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter two picturesque beaches – perfect spots for a rest, photos, or simply soaking in the view. Continuing onward, the trail leads you to the Kurosaki Lookout, a stunning viewpoint offering expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline. Nearby is Kurosaki Senkyo – a peaceful onsen resort nestled in the hills. This is an ideal spot to enjoy some lunch and a soothing hot spring bath (note this is closed on Wednesdays).

This afternoon, a pre-booked taxi will take you to Kessenuma Oshima, a scenic island just off the coast. Your day ends on Kessenuma Oshima, where you can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty and quiet charm of this island community, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and traditional fishing villages.

Meals: B, D

Today offers a rich and rewarding exploration of Kesennuma Oshima. The island is home to a variety of scenic walking trails that showcase the beauty of the island.

The Fureai no Michi is a 15km coastal loop that takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, guiding walkers past panoramic ocean views, peaceful bays, temples such as Kōmyōji and Chōmei-ji, and beaches like Odanohama and Tanakahama. It’s ideal for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the island’s landscape and history.

Alternatively, you could do the whole loop including the hike up to Mt Kameyama, the island’s highest point. At the summit, you’ll find Oshima Shrine, a sacred site tucked into the trees and believed to protect the island’s people and lands. Both trails showcase the island’s harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making them rewarding experiences for walkers of varying interests and fitness levels.

Meals: B, D

Your trip ends this morning in Kesennuma Oshima. The hotel shuttle will transfer you to Kesennuma Station. From Kesennuma station, you can then take a train to Sendai via Ichinoseki. You may like to extend your time in Senda or from here, the Hayabusa Line is the best option heading south to Tokyo – a journey of 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Meals: B

• 11 nights’ accommodation
• Daily meals (as listed in the itinerary)
• Luggage transfers (from days 2 to 10)
• Transfers indicated in itinerary on days 2, 5, 6 & 10
• RAW Travel’s exclusive interactive navigation app
• Pre-departure orientation video
• Local and Australian emergency contacts
• Carbon offset for your trip and a native tree planted for every walker

• Single supplement – please enquire
• Flights 
• Travel insurance
• Drinks other than water at meals 
• Local bus tickets
• Entrance fees
• Train tickets
• Expenses of a personal nature