Opened in 2019, the Michinoku Coastal Trail was created as a joint effort by local governments to help the area rebuild after the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Stretching over 1,000 km along the coastline of four prefectures, the Michinoku Coastal Trail offers some of the most beautiful and breathtaking views. 

Our Michinoku Coastal Trail self-guided 6-day walking tour curates the best portions of the northern section of the trail. Walk with confidence, guided by our detailed maps and turn-by-turn walking directions, and supported by our Kyōto office.

Your walk begins in the town of Hachinohe and then heads south along the coast, alternating between sandy beaches, cosy hamlets, and forested trails. Coming into view often is the Pacific Ocean, dotted with stunning rock formations, sweeping cliffs, and gorgeous beaches. Just a sampling of the places you’ll visit includes Kabushima Shrine, known as a breeding ground for thousands of black-tailed gulls; Samuraiishi or ‘Samurai Rock’, which gives you an impressive, panoramic view of the Sanriku coast; and Jōdogahama Beach, whose beauty has earned it a name that translates to ‘paradise’.

You’ll also get to see the unique way of life, centred around fishing and the sea. This vibrant community has rebuilt in the wake of tragedy and continues to work to preserve and revitalize its traditional way of life. One of your nights will be in Fudai Village, which has an impressive story of survival during the earthquake and tsunami. You’ll stay in a mix of family-owned traditional guesthouses and city hotels,  with ample opportunities to try the local flavour, which boasts some of the freshest seafood – particularly sea urchin. 

Your journey will end with sightseeing in Morioka, the capital city of Iwate Prefecture, before continuing your Japan trip or returning home.  

Our fureai local experiences, allow you to meet and connect with local members of the community. When you show the special tag we provide to you at fureai points, you will receive a gift or experience, as well as a unique chance to learn a bit more about the area. 

See below for a full itinerary of the tour, or send us an enquiry! We hope to see you on the trail soon.

Please note that this tour heavily features seafood due to the culture and cuisine of the region. As a result, we may be unable to accommodate diets that exclude fish and seafood.