Embark on a 9-Day Walking Tour in Japan to Discover One of the World’s Most Stunning Trails

The Michinoku Coastal Trail traces over 620 miles along the northeastern coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu, featuring breathtaking beaches, towering cliffs, enchanting forests, and lush meadows. This stunning and isolated trail symbolizes much more than just natural beauty. 

This region of Tohoku was severely impacted by the earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011—marking 13 years this month—resulting in nearly 18,000 lives lost in one of the most significant natural disasters in modern times.

Opened in 2019, this trail began as a reconstruction effort for coastal damage but has evolved into a powerful symbol of the region's resilience.

As a highlight of its offerings, walking tour company Walk Japan provides a 9-day journey along a segment of the trail from Hachinohe to Kesennuma. 

“In this region, the values of resilience, persistence, generosity, community spirit, and kindness—hallmarks of Japanese culture—are profoundly evident,” the company states on its website regarding this tour. “Wherever we travel, the locals warmly welcome us into their lives.”

Key attractions along the route include the Kabushima Shinto shrine, the impressive Samurai-ishi rock slabs, Kuwadai Pass, and stunning viewpoints at Kitayama-zaki and Jodogahama, along with visits to the fishing ports of Ofunato and the villages of Fudai and Yoshihama. A segment of the journey will also take place on the Sanriku Railway and Sanriku train.

Each day involves walking approximately five to seven miles, making it suitable for those who can comfortably walk for about three to four hours. While there are some steep climbs, long descents, and moderate passes, this portion of the trail is generally “gently undulating.”

The fully guided experience includes accommodations at local hotels and charming inns, most of which offer views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests will enjoy eight breakfasts and dinners, along with five lunches, many of which feature local seafood. 

Although the spring itinerary is fully booked, there are still spots available for fall tours, with departures on Sept. 28; Oct. 5, 17, and 26; and Nov. 7. Rates start at 460,000 Japanese yen, roughly $3,115 per person. 

Founded in 1992, Walk Japan specializes in unique tours across the country. Their other notable offerings include the Tohoku Aizu Explorer, Onsen Gastronomy: Oita and Kumamoto, and the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage.

Additional companies offering tours along the Michinoku Coastal Trail include G Adventures, which provides an 11-day journey incorporating stops in Tokyo and Kyoto, and Oku Japan, which features a self-guided seven-day experience.