Explore Japan’s stunning landscapes on this hidden Japanese coastal trail

This serene coastal hike will show you a different side of Japan

Amidst one of the biggest tourism booms Japan has ever seen, the Tōhoku region offers a spiritual escape from the bustling hotspots of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Historically a region known for its ancient traditions, myths, and folklore, Tōhoku remains a hidden gem in Japan, with less than 2% of tourists making the journey out to its spectacular shores.

But in 2011, the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami ravaged Japan’s north eastern coast, sweeping away entire towns and reducing buildings and communities to rubble. 13 years on and the region has been busy rebuilding, creating new places to live, work, and gather along one of the most breathtaking coastlines in East Asia.

One such project is the Michinoku Coastal Trail, a 1000km-long hiking route that connects the city of Hachinohe with Soma in Fukushima. The trail takes visitors on an incredible journey through the Tōhoku province, showcasing picturesque views, delectable food, and rich culture for an authentic, spiritual, and unexpected side of Japan.

Life’s An Adventure

For those who want to experience the magic of Michinoku without the rigmarole of a full-blown hiking escape, Life’s An Adventure has curated a trail experience that gives guests the perfect mix of activity, culture, and indulgence. Operating for over 15 years, Life’s an Adventure have built a name for themselves by making hiking tours accessible and enjoyable, giving more people than ever the opportunity to see some of the world’s best sights that lay off the beaten path. Their signature “Pack-free Walking Experience” is an elevated way to explore new horizons, allowing guests to hike by day and relax by night, with private transfers, accommodation, meals, and experiences all taken care of, with no need to lug around heavy hiking packs.

Their tour of the Michinoku Coastal Trail is one of nine Japanese itineraries, and continues to build on their reputation as Australia’s leading tour operator in Japan. With 21 awards of excellence to their name, Life’s An Adventure has created a journey through Michinoku that is considered, informed, and unforgettable, distilling the alchemy of Tōhoku into nine incredible days.

A curated trail

Day one of the Michinoku Coastal Trail will start from Hachinohe, a city on the northeast coast of Japan’s Honshu island. Just two and a half hours from Tokyo via a bullet train, the city is a transitional point from the hustle and bustle of Japan’s metropolitan centres and into the far-flung beauty of the Michinoku Coast.

From here, guests will spend their days travelling south to Sendai, with each step immersing them in the region’s unique charm, from the peaceful pathways near the Itsukushima-Jinga Shrine, to the vibrant atmosphere at Tanesashi Fishing Port, and a mesmerising afternoon cruise along the majestic Kitayamazaki cliffs, which offer a spectacular vantage point of the coastline.

Flexible walking options mean longer and shorter daily treks are available to choose from, with private transfers taking guests to and from their hikes and accommodation. Each day will cover a new part of the trail, with the Life’s An Adventure team showcasing only the best parts to ensure guests can experience all that it has to offer.

A holistic hiking escape

Cultural experiences will add to the impressive scenery, creating an immersive and insightful itinerary that showcases the authenticity of Tōhoku. From sampling fresh seafood at a fisherman’s hut, to spending an afternoon making traditional crafts, and a reflective visit to the Tsunami Monument, each day will provide a new opportunity to learn more about the rich culture, the fabled history, and the thriving community that surrounds the coastal trail.

In between hikes, experiences, and meals, guests will spend their evenings finding respite and relaxation at some of the country’s most impressive hotels. Each location has been hand-selected by Life’s An Adventure for its comfort and unique Japanese charm. Superb accommodation like the Hotel Ragaso and Hotel Jodogahama are a highlight of the escape, where traditional onsen baths offer a perfect way to unwind after a day spent exploring the great outdoors.

Book your escape

Life’s An Adventure’s Michinoku Coastal Trail is more than a walking holiday; it’s a deep dive into the beauty and culture of Japan’s coastline, blending scenic walks, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences in a way that makes for a truly unparalleled journey. Perfect for those looking to explore a different side to Japan, the itinerary connects guests to a different world, letting walkers of all skills experience the trip of a lifetime, all while contributing to a rebuilding community.

Book your tour today. 2025 trips departure: April: 19th – 27th / May: 27th – June 4th / Aug: 24th – Sep 1st / Oct: 5th – 13th

lifesanadventure.com.au/tours/japan-michinoku-coastal-walk/