The Michinoku Coastal Trail

From Tokyo to the Pacific

Travel north from Tokyo by Shinkansen, Japan's high-speed bullet train, to Hachinohe, the northern gateway to the Michinoku Coastal Trail. Continue to the Pacific coast and begin your first walk along one of the trail's most varied landscapes.

The trail passes the sacred Kabushima Shrine, dramatic coastal cliffs at Ashigezaki, broad sandy beaches and the windswept grasslands of Tanesashi Coast. With the Pacific Ocean stretching alongside the route, this gentle opening walk introduces the diverse coastal geography that defines the Michinoku region.

Return to Hachinohe in the late afternoon and settle into your hotel.

Walk: Approx. 11 km | 2.5–3 hours
Overnight: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hachinohe

Rugged Cliffs, Coastal Villages & Pacific Views

Drive to Takonoki Fishing Port (45 minutes) to begin another rewarding section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail. The route follows an ever-changing stretch of the Sanriku coast, passing rugged cliffs, quiet fishing villages, secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints.

Highlights include Samurai Rock, the historic seawater pools, Yokonuma Lookout, and Itsukushima Shrine, set against the Pacific coast. The trail offers a varied landscape of rocky shoreline, open coastal scenery and forested sections before finishing near the dramatic Kitayamazaki coastline.

Continue to Kurosakiso Villa (drive around 50 minutes), overlooking the Pacific coast, and settle in for the evening.

Walk: Approx. 11-12 km | 4.5-5.5 hours
Overnight: Kurosakiso Villa (or Hotel Ragaso)

One of Japan's Most Spectacular Coastal Walks

Continue along one of the most dramatic sections of the Michinoku Coastal Trail, beginning at the Kurosaki Coast and following the rugged shoreline towards Kitayamazaki. The trail winds through coastal forests and open landscapes, with the Pacific appearing between the trees and cliffs.

The route passes Nedari Beach before reaching the spectacular Kitayamazaki Cliffs, where sheer rock faces rise dramatically from the ocean. The Kurosaki Observation Deck offers expansive views along the Sanriku coastline, while the surrounding landscape reveals the scale and wild character of this remote stretch of Japan.

Return to Kurosakiso Villa in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Walk: Approx. 12–13 km | 5–6 hours
Overnight: Kurosakiso Villa

Walking Ancient Paths Along the Pacific Shore

Continue along the dramatic Kitayamazaki coastline, where sheer cliffs rise above the Pacific and the trail moves between forested headlands and secluded beaches.

The route descends towards Kitayama Beach, passing through a distinctive section of the trail featuring a steep ladder and a narrow, hand-carved tunnel before reaching Tsukuehama Beach. This shorter section offers a different perspective on the Sanriku coast, moving from high coastal viewpoints down to the shoreline itself.

After the walk, transfer to Nagisatei Taroan (45 minute drive), a beautiful coastal hotel where you can arrive early and enjoy a relaxed evening overlooking the Pacific.

Walk: Approx. 6.5 km | 3.5–4.5 hours
Overnight: Nagisatei Taroan

The Final Chapter of the Michinoku Coastal Trail

Complete your journey along the Michinoku Coastal Trail with a final stretch of the dramatic Sanriku coastline. Begin at the Shiofuki Blow Hole, where the Pacific meets the rugged volcanic coast, and follow the trail south towards Takonohama Beach and the sheltered bays and forests beyond.

The walk culminates at Jodogahama Beach, one of the most striking landscapes along the trail. Here, distinctive white volcanic rock formations rise from the calm waters of the bay, creating a beautiful contrast with the deep blue Pacific.

After completing the final section of the trail, arrive at Jodogahama Park Hotel and take time to settle in and reflect on the journey along this remarkable coastline.

Walk: Approx. 7-8 km | 3.5-4.5 hours
Overnight: Jodogahama Park Hotel

Reflections on Japan's Wild Northeast

After breakfast, depart Jodogahama and travel by express bus to Morioka before boarding the Shinkansen back to Tokyo.

As the journey concludes, reflect on an unforgettable week exploring one of Japan's most scenic long-distance trails, where dramatic coastal landscapes, fishing villages, and stories of resilience come together to create a truly distinctive hiking experience.