Uncover the history behind Japan’s stunning 600-mile Michinoku Coastal Trail

Boasting breathtaking landscapes, Japan is a dream destination for hikers, offering everything from quick escapes into tranquil rural areas to extended hikes that wind through dramatic coastal cliffs and lush mountain forests.

Japan’s newest addition to the ‘epic hike’ lineup is no exception.

Stretching over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) along the Pacific coastline of Honshu’s northeast, the Michinoku Coastal Trail traverses four prefectures and 29 towns, blending striking landscapes, rich culture, and local cuisine.

Inaugurated in 2019, this trail is part of a broader initiative to revitalize Japan’s Tohoku region, which was heavily impacted by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The route’s name, 'Michinoku', harks back to ancient times when this northern region was known as the 'end of the road.'

Few are as familiar with the trail as Robin Lewis, the Japanese-British founder of the Michinoku Trail Walker Project, a platform dedicated to helping travelers make the most of their journey.

'Whether you’re an experienced long-distance hiker or just seeking a family-friendly day out, this trail offers something for everyone,' Lewis shares with Dinogo Travel.

'The blend of awe-inspiring natural scenery, tasty northern cuisine, and the unique culture of the Tohoku region—along with the chance to learn from and contribute to the recovery of an area affected by disaster—makes this a one-of-a-kind destination.'

Although the Michinoku Coastal Trail has been around for a few years, international visitors were largely kept away until late 2022 due to the pandemic.

What sets this trail apart from Japan’s many other renowned hiking routes, according to Lewis, is that it remains relatively undiscovered—even within Japan itself.

'Only about 2% of international travelers make their way to the Tohoku region,' he notes.

'I’ve hiked several other famous trails in Japan, such as the Kumano Kodo and the Shinetsu Trail, but I believe the Michinoku Coastal Trail offers a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience,' he adds.

A journey with a meaningful purpose

Lewis has a deep personal connection to the Tohoku region. His mother’s family hails from Miyagi, one of the four prefectures the trail passes through. Having witnessed the devastation of the 2011 earthquake firsthand, he describes it as a 'major turning point' in his life.

In the aftermath, Lewis volunteered in the affected areas, dedicating the next six years to disaster relief work in Japan and globally. His experiences ultimately led him to a career in the social impact sector.

'I first heard about the Michinoku Coastal Trail in 2015, and instantly knew I wanted to walk it in its entirety. It perfectly blended my desire to contribute to Tohoku's recovery with my passion for the outdoors and adventure,' he recalls.

'In the summer of 2017, feeling a bit burnt out and seeking a change, I decided to walk over 600 kilometers of the trail’s open sections. After the full trail’s completion in 2019, I returned in 2022 to hike the entire 1,000-kilometer route,' he reflects.

During both hikes, Lewis captured his journey with photos and shared his experiences online, even delivering a TEDx talk about the trail and the countless acts of kindness he encountered along the way.

'I was truly amazed by the response and the level of interest I received from people all over the world,' he recalls.

'As time passed, I started getting more and more questions about how others could undertake the journey. That’s when I decided to create the website—to help travelers, especially international ones, discover the trail, plan their trips, and explore the many wonders of the Tohoku region,' he explains.

Guided treks and shorter hiking options

There are two main starting points for the Michinoku Coastal Trail – the northern one begins in Hachinohe City, located in Aomori prefecture, while the southern trailhead is in Soma City, situated in Fukushima prefecture.

Completing the entire trail typically takes most hikers between 40 to 50 days—too long for many to commit to.

Fortunately, the trail features numerous access points, allowing hikers to enjoy shorter sections. Guided tours are also available for those seeking a more structured experience.

Walk Japan, a company with over 30 years of experience in organizing hikes, offers nine-day fully-guided treks during the best seasons—Spring and Fall. These tours give travelers a chance to experience multiple days on the trail.

Paul Christie, CEO of Walk Japan, notes that all of their tours have seen high demand since Japan reopened after the pandemic, with particular enthusiasm for their Michinoku Coastal Trail offerings.

'As we introduce new departures, they fill up quickly,' he tells Dinogo Travel.

'Japan is home to countless trails, but the Michinoku Coastal Trail stands out for its stunning coastal vistas, abundant seafood, and, most importantly, its people. The resilience and hospitality of the locals is truly remarkable, as they welcome visitors with extraordinary warmth and generosity,' he shares.

The Walk Japan adventure starts in Hachinohe, in the north, where hikers follow the trail along the coastline. At times, they are flanked by towering cliffs, while at others, they enjoy sweeping views of the coastline's intricate network of inlets and bays, according to Walk Japan’s tour description.

'Along the way, we visit some of Japan’s most scenic natural wonders, including iconic pine tree-lined coastlines and Jodogahama, a striking cliff of white sandstone set against the backdrop of emerald-green seas,' he adds.

Meals feature a variety of fresh local seafood, including abalone, oysters, clams, salmon, and squid sourced from the renowned Sanriku Coast. Walk Japan’s accommodations are mostly oceanside, with many featuring baths overlooking the sea—offering a serene way to unwind before enjoying the evening’s culinary delights.

Regarding difficulty, Christie mentions that the trail is best suited for more experienced trekkers, as it can be quite challenging with steep climbs and descents. However, the breathtaking and diverse scenery makes every bit of effort worthwhile.

Along with their guided tours, Walk Japan also offers a self-guided 10-day Michinoku experience for those who prefer independence.

Key trail highlights

Similar to Walk Japan’s Christie, Lewis has also observed a surge in interest for the new Michinoku Coastal Trail since Japan reopened in 2022, with traffic to his website more than doubling compared to last year.

'During the pandemic, I was surprised by how many people told me they were eagerly awaiting the reopening of borders to walk the trail. Now, many of those individuals have finally made the journey,' he shares.

'With the yen currently weak, it’s an excellent time for international visitors to explore Japan,' he adds.

For those short on time but wanting to experience a taste of the trail, Lewis suggests focusing on the northern section, particularly between the Hachinohe trailhead and Miyako City.

'The landscapes here are diverse and dramatic, ranging from pristine beaches to scenic islands and historic tunnels,' he notes.

'Undoubtedly, one of the trail’s highlights is the stretch along the cliffs of Kitayamazaki and Unosu in Iwate. While the steep ascents and descents can be challenging, the view from the 200-meter cliffs and the chance to explore the hand-dug tunnels nearby—where most visitors don’t go—are absolutely worth it,' he says.

'At the northern tip, Tanesashi Kaigan in Aomori is a true hiker’s paradise, featuring long, flat stretches of trail through expansive grassy meadows, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean,' he notes.

'Take a stroll along the nearby Osuka Beach, known for its ‘squeaky sand,’ which is so pure and untouched that it makes a distinctive squeaking sound underfoot as you walk,' he adds.

'For those determined to complete the full 1,000 kilometers, I recommend taking it slow and savoring the journey,' Lewis advises.

'There’s so much to experience—sights, food, drinks, and opportunities to learn and connect,' he reflects. 'It’s easy to rush through, but I recommend allowing plenty of time and flexibility in your schedule for the unexpected,' he advises.

'For me, and based on countless stories I’ve heard from fellow hikers, it’s those unscripted moments—the spontaneous interactions (even overcoming language barriers!) and the small detours—that truly make the journey unforgettable,' he says.

When asked to share a particularly memorable experience, Lewis recalls a chance encounter during his trek.

'After spending nearly four hours walking through a mountain pass in pouring rain, I found myself standing in the doorway of a small, dimly lit shop in a quiet village, soaking wet and questioning my life choices,' he laughs.

'I shook off as much water as I could before stepping inside and awkwardly started searching for a bento box while my shoes squelched with every step. Ten minutes later, I was seated under a kotatsu, sipping hot tea and enjoying a bowl of ramen while my clothes dried by the stove. The shopkeeper, Chiba-san, had kindly ushered me into their family home, insisting I warm up and wait out the storm,' he recalls.

Lewis recounts how the hours flew by as he conversed with the family, 'including the unstoppable ojiisan (grandfather), an 83-year-old former professional boxer and passionate table tennis player.'

'Several hours later, I stepped out into the spring afternoon, smiling, refreshed, and ready to continue my long journey,' he recalls.

'Although the Michinoku Coastal Trail boasts breathtaking views, some of the freshest seafood, and so much more, it’s the unexpected, unscripted moments like these that make the experience truly unforgettable,' says Lewis.

Access and planning

The four prefectures along the trail’s path are Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima. Much of the trail is easily accessible via Japan’s renowned Shinkansen bullet train, including the two main trailheads in Hachinohe and Soma City.

Lewis' Michinoku Trail website provides a range of route recommendations, along with a comprehensive list of accommodations, budgeting tips, and other useful resources for hikers.

Another great resource for those planning a trip to Tohoku is the Michinoku Trail Club, which offers detailed information in both Japanese and English, including regular updates on trail detours and weather alerts.