Kyoto, Japan. October 16, 2023 – More than a decade after one of Japan’s most devastating disasters, the Tōhoku region – on the main island of Honshu – is on the rebound, and Kyoto-based adventure operator Oku Japan has announced a brand new self-guided walking trip here, with departures starting in April 2024.
In ancient times, the region was called michinoku, which translates to mean ‘the end of the road.’ One of the country’s most remote and less developed regions, even today Tōhoku is known for its wild nature and rugged landscapes, worlds away from the big cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. And running for over 630 miles (1,000 kilometres), this region is also home to Japan’s newest hiking trail (and Oku Japan’s newest trip) – the aptly named Michinoku Coastal Trail.
Winding through four prefectures, this stunning trail passes dramatic rocky cliffs and outcroppings, pristine pine and beech forests, and cozy seaside villages. The weather here is cooler than the rest of the Japanese mainland, and the Pacific Ocean stretches dramatically towards the east as crashing waves and the cries of sea birds add to the overall atmosphere and experience.
Steeped in history, Tōhoku has retained its own distinct identity over the centuries – from its dialect to its traditions – and is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a truly authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Opened in 2019, the Michinoku Coastal Trail was created through cooperation with the Tōhoku regional government and local communities as part of the revitalization effort for the area. Meant to serve as a bridge – one between locals and visitors, and between the communities that call Tōhoku home – the paved roads and forest trails weave together a region that has come together to rebuild in the wake of calamity.
For its newest self-guided walking adventure, Oku Japan has curated some of the best portions of the northern section of this trail and put together an unforgettable multi-day experience that can be enjoyed as either a six- or seven-day trip.
Guests will travel along the wild Sanriku coast by day (nicknamed ‘the Alps of the Sea,’ it runs from the southern Aomori prefecture to the Miyagi prefecture) and spend nights at local guesthouses and hotels where they will experience the unique way of life of these communities. Oku’s hyper-local fureai experiences are available here – a term that refers to the “formation of emotional connections between people,” in this case visitors and community members – and guests will have the opportunity to meet and connect with locals while getting more insight into the way of life in this region.
Starting in the town of Hachinohe, travelers will head south over sandy beaches, forested trails, and coastal paved roads. The northern trailhead of the Michinoku is Kabushima Shrine, which will offer the first of many commanding views over the Pacific Ocean. From the soaring Kitayamazaki Cliffs to the white rocks and deep blue waters of Jōdgahama Beach, this is the story of a region’s rebirth and a memorable journey through Japan’s northeast.
As with all of Oku Japan’s self-guided trips, this new Michinoku Coastal Trail adventure invites travelers to discover the region at their own pace, with Oku providing detailed maps and walking instructions. The company also arranges all rail tickets, accommodations, and more, allowing visitors to focus on relaxing and enjoying all the amazing sights and experiences each trip has to offer.
To learn more about Oku Japan’s new Michinoku Coastal Trail self-guided trip, and to check out its full line-up of year-round self-guided and guided group tours, please visit OkuJapan.com.
