Michinoku Coastal Trail Hiking Tour

Welcome to Tokyo! You’ll be met at the airport by a local representative to transfer to Tokyo Station. From here, you'll travel via public transport (bus, train and transfer) to reach Jodogahama.

This section takes you from Jodogahama to Kyukamura Rikuchu-Miyako, where you’ll enjoy one of the most scenic coastal walks along the Sanriku Coast. Along the way, you’ll follow well-maintained trails with a mix of gentle uphill and downhill sections, making it suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness. You’ll also come across several observation decks where you can safely take in the stunning coastal views.

One of the highlights of this walk is the Shiofukiana Blowhole. Here, you’ll witness a fascinating natural phenomenon, when the tide is high and waves are strong, seawater is pushed through an underwater cave and shoots up through the rocks like a geyser. The spray can rise several meters into the air, creating a truly dramatic and memorable sight.

On this section, you’ll walk along the rugged Sanriku coastline, taking in its dramatic cliffs, bays, and forested headlands, with a short 15-minute transfer included. A highlight is Sannoiwa, where you’ll climb stairs to viewpoints overlooking three towering rock pillars rising from the sea, shaped over millions of years by the powerful Pacific waves.

On this scenic coastal section, you’ll enjoy a mix of rugged landscapes, quiet shorelines, and a rewarding finish at a highland resort. You’ll pass through Sawajiri Coast, where you can take in the striking contrast of the blue sea against the rocky shoreline, all while enjoying the calming sound of waves along the beach.

Continuing on, you’ll arrive at Aonotaki Fishing Port, a charming spot where you can observe local fishing life in the Sanriku region. From here, the trail gradually leads you away from the coast as you begin your ascent toward the highlands.

On this section, you’ll enjoy a mix of coastal scenery and fascinating geological history as you make your way toward Iwaizumi.

You’ll pass through the Moshi area, known for its ancient rock layers and as the site where Japan’s first dinosaur fossil (“Moshiryu”) was discovered. Along the way, you’ll also stop at Kumanohana Observatory, a stunning viewpoint named after its bear-shaped peninsula, offering sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean.

Your walk ends at Iwaizumi-Omoto Station, the gateway to the region, where you can continue by bus to the famous Ryusendo Cave, known for its striking underground blue lakes.

On this section, you’ll cover a short but adventurous route, moving from a quiet fishing harbor up to dramatic 200-meter-high coastal cliffs.

You’ll start at Tsukuehama Banya-gun, a group of traditional fishermen’s huts rebuilt after the 2011 tsunami, now used for local marine village activities.

From there, the trail becomes more adventurous as you pass through hand-dug tunnels before tackling a series of steep staircases known as the “Stairway to the Sky.” The climb is challenging, but it leads to incredible views.

Your journey ends at the Kitayamazaki Lookout & Visitor Center, often called the “Alps of the Sea,” where you’ll take in sweeping views of towering rock pillars and dramatic cliffs stretching along the coastline.

On this section, you’ll enjoy a rewarding walk that takes you from dramatic 150-meter-high cliff edges down to a peaceful riverside route leading into town.

A highlight is Nedari-hama, a hidden stretch of rocky coastline where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Here, you’ll get down close to sea level, feeling the sea spray and experiencing the raw power of the waves up close.

Along the way, you’ll also pass through hand-dug tunnels in the Nedari-hama area, narrow, atmospheric passages that feel like something out of an adventure film before continuing your descent toward Fudai Station.

On this section, you’ll enjoy a relaxed coastal walk with beautiful ocean views and peaceful rural scenery.

Starting from Rikuchu-Nakano Station, you’ll follow quiet country roads along a low-lying coastline, where you can enjoy close-up views of the sea at an easy, unhurried pace.

You’ll also walk alongside the Sanriku Railway (Rias Line), where you may see colourful local trains passing through the scenic countryside, one of the highlights of the route for many travellers and photographers.

On this section, you’ll walk a scenic coastal route that transitions from quiet fishing villages to open natural landscapes and striking rock formations.

A highlight is Tanesashi Natural Lawn, one of the most iconic spots on the entire trail, where lush green grass flows right to the edge of the ocean, creating a rare and beautiful coastal setting.

You’ll also pass through Yodo-no-Matsubara Pine Grove, a peaceful forest of ancient pine trees, where the trail winds through shaded paths with occasional views of the rocky shoreline.

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take a short 10-minute JR train ride to Hachinohe Station. From there, you’ll board the Shinkansen (bullet train) for a comfortable approximately 3-hour journey to Tokyo aboard the Hayabusa service.