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An adventure from the Sea of Japan to the Pacific coast
With 1,000 km of trails winding along the coastline, the Michinoku Coastal Trail is Japan's longest coastal hiking trail. This exceptional route links Hachinohe, in Aomori prefecture, to Soma, in Fukushima prefecture, crossing Tohoku, a region where wild nature meets a history deeply marked by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Created as part of a national reconstruction project, the trail is the fruit of close collaboration between local communities and Japan's Ministry of the Environment.
Hiking on the Tanesashi coast
Discover the Tanesashi coast on a hike accessible from Same station, near Hachinohe. First stop: the Kabushima Shrine, perched on a hill with a breathtaking view of the ocean. This unique place, dedicated to good luck and prosperity, is also a rare observation site for black-tailed gulls (umineko). If you visit in May, admire the rapeseed flowers in full bloom and enjoy a break at the information center or nearby café.
The Michinoku Coastal Trail starts here, leading to a variety of landscapes: the Same Kado lighthouse surrounded by fields of flowers, the Ashigezaki viewpoint with its 360° panorama, and Osuka beach, famous for its pure, immaculate "singing sand".
End your walk at Okuki station or continue on to Mount Hashikami. The Tanesashi Kaigan Information Center, collection point for official Michinoku Coastal Trail stamps, will enrich your experience with information on local flora and fauna.
A must: Kinkasan Island
Among the many nuggets along the way, Kinkasan Island in Miyagi Prefecture is a must-see. A little-known wilderness paradise, it offers a surprising alternative to the temples and deer of Nara. On site, some 500 sika deer and 250 Japanese macaques roam freely, but it's the presence of the Japanese saro that is most intriguing. This cousin of the goat, protected as a National Natural Monument since 1934, lives peacefully on this island with a rich spiritual past, once a place of pilgrimage for followers of Shugendo.
Kinkasan is accessible by ferry from the port of Onagawa, a small coastal town that leaves no one indifferent. Known for its fish market and tasty grilled cuttlefish skewers, Onagawa also bears the indelible marks of the 2011 tsunami. Not far from the port, a strange crater shelters the ruins of a former police station, now a symbol of the tragic events of that year. This landmark testifies to the city's titanic efforts to rebuild and secure the port, now located on higher ground.
An adventure in the heart of Tohoku
Following the Michinoku Coastal Trail, travelers discover much more than breathtaking coastal scenery: it's a plunge into the heart of Tohoku's history and resilience. The route is also packed with activities for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers: kayaking, fishing, exploring sea caves... The possibilities for adventure are endless.
To plan your trip :
● More information on the Michinoku Coastal Trail: https: //www.michinokutrail.com/
● Discover other must-see sites in Tohoku: https: //www.tohokukanko.jp/en/
The sokushinbutsu mummies of Dewa Sanzan, along the Rokujurigoe Kaido pilgrimage route
Those who like to venture along thousand-year-old pilgrimage routes will find the most beautiful ancient relics of esoteric Buddhism on the 1200-year-old paths of the Rokujurigoe Kaido (approx. 20km long, 2 days 1 night needed to complete it in its entirety. This pilgrimage route links the town of Tsuruoka to Mount Yudono, the third mountain in the sacred triad of Dewa Sanzan, one of the three major sites of Shugendo in Japan (a syncretism of Buddhism and Shinto, incorporating Taoist and Shamanist precepts). Shugendo ascetics, the yamabushi, worship the mountain as a mother of blessings and a place of spiritual awakening.
Mount Yudono, the "temple at the bottom
Shugendo ascetics, the yamabushi, worship the mountain as a mother of blessings and a place of spiritual awakening. Mount Yudono, known as "the temple at the bottom" (oku no in 奥の院), was home to the poet Matsuo Basho, who composed 2 haikus in its honor, each demonstrating the strong emotion he felt when visiting the secrets of this mountain of Shingon Buddhism :
語られぬ湯殿にぬらす袂かな
No one can say
Yudono's secrets
Tears that flow
湯殿山銭ふむ道の泪かな
At Mount Yudono,
Paths paved with gold coins,
Tears of emotion
At the heart of these secrets: the Sokushinbutsu of Mount Yudono. These monks mummified themselves after more than 1,000 days of training in the mountains, emaciating themselves to the extreme to preserve their bodies from putrefaction beyond death. If they succeeded in this task, their bodies were removed from their tombs to be preserved as "Buddhas" by the temples of Mount Yudono.
The Pilgrimage Route from Mount Yudono to the town of Tsuruoka
The Rokujurigoe Kaido 六十里越街道, otherwise known as: Yudonomichi ゆどの道 ("The Road to Mount Yudono") is more than just a pilgrimage trail: it's a veritable link between mountains and sea, between spirituality and trade. Its history dates back to the founding of the Churenji (833) and Dainichibo (852) temples, the two high points of Mount Yudono, in the village of Oami. But according to the Dewa Fudoki scrolls of 1792, pilgrims had been walking this path since the Nara period (8th century).
Over the centuries, this route became a key axis for travellers from all horizons. Militaries, merchants and farmers all used it, linking the mountainous interior of Yamagata prefecture with the coastal region of Shonai. Strategically, the trail was even used by warriors of the Shonai clan to defend the coastline and access inland areas. General Sakanoue Tamamuro is said to have used it at the end of the 8th century to quell Emishi revolts in the north. Later, during the Edo period (1604-1868), Shonai lords and their armies used it to travel to Edo (Tokyo) every two years. Merchants and peasants saw it as a valuable trade route, linking faith and prosperity.
Today, what remains of the Rokujurigoe Kaido is a 34 km trail that runs through the town of Tsuruoka and the city of Nishikawa, in Yamagata prefecture; although we recommend our visitors stop at Mount Yudono, as the passage to Nishikawa is very bushy. With a vertical drop of 1,200 metres, this route offers a unique immersion in the heart of the mountains. The starting point for the first section is Honmyoji temple in Tsuruoka, and the entire route leads to Shizu Onsen in Nishikawa. A little tip for hikers: at Yudonosan Shrine, the highest point on the trail, it's on average 7°C cooler than on the plain. Don't forget to bring warm clothes, even in summer!
In terms of climate, the region is marked by strong seasonal variations. In winter, snow covers the landscape from December to mid-April. In May, nature awakens with the sprouting season. From mid-June to the end of August, summer heat sets in, before autumn adorns the mountains in flamboyant colors. A life-size adventure for lovers of hiking and spirituality!
Along the Rokujurigoe Kaido, hikers can visit the Dainichibo, Churenji and Honmyoji temples and visit their respective Sokushinbutsu mummies.
● Find out all about Dewa Sanzan on the official Dewa Sanzan Shrine website: www.thedewasanzan.com (online February 10) :
● Find out more about other sites in Tsuruoka city : www.tsuruokacity.com
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Michinoku Coastal Trail's hiking experience
From 2025-01-30 at 2026-02-15
Michinoku Coastal Trail: Japan’s Ultimate Coastal Hiking Adventure
From the Sea of Japan to the Pacific Coast
Stretching over 1,000 km along the rugged coastline of Tohoku, the Michinoku Coastal Trail is Japan’s longest coastal hiking route. This breathtaking journey runs from Hachinohe in Aomori Prefecture to Soma in Fukushima, winding through a region where untamed nature meets a deep, unshakable history—one forever shaped by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Conceived as part of a national reconstruction initiative, the trail is a testament to the resilience of local communities, crafted in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of the Environment.
Hiking the Tanesashi Coast
For a perfect introduction to the Michinoku Coastal Trail, head to Tanesashi Coast, easily accessible from Same Station near Hachinohe. The adventure begins at Kabushima Shrine, perched on a scenic hilltop with sweeping ocean views. A revered site for good fortune and prosperity, it also serves as a nesting ground for black-tailed gulls (umineko), offering a rare birdwatching opportunity. If you visit in May, you’ll be treated to fields of golden rapeseed blossoms—a stunning backdrop for a quick stop at the local visitor center or a cozy seaside café.
From here, the trail unfolds across a diverse landscape: the Samekado Lighthouse, surrounded by wildflower fields; the Ashigezaki Lookout, boasting panoramic coastal views; and the Osuka Beach, famous for its pristine “singing sand” that emits a unique sound when walked upon.
End your hike at Okuki Station, or push onward to Mount Hashikami for a deeper immersion into nature. Before you leave, stop by the Tanesashi Kaigan Information Center, where you can collect official Michinoku Coastal Trail stamps and learn more about the area’s rich biodiversity.
An Off-the-Beaten-Path Gem: Kinkasan Island
Among the many hidden treasures along the trail, Kinkasan Island, located off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, is a must-visit. Often overlooked by travelers, this wild, sacred island offers a refreshing alternative to the deer-filled temples of Nara. Here, 500 free-roaming sika deer and 250 wild Japanese macaques call the island home, but it’s the elusive Japanese serow (saro) that truly captures the imagination. A distant cousin of the goat and protected as a National Natural Monument since 1934, this mysterious creature thrives in the island’s tranquil, forested slopes—once a revered pilgrimage site for shugendo practitioners.
Reaching Kinkasan is an adventure in itself. Hop on a ferry from Onagawa Port, a coastal town with a compelling mix of flavors and history. Famous for its lively fish market and mouthwatering grilled squid skewers, Onagawa also bears the poignant scars of the 2011 tsunami. A striking crater near the port houses the remnants of a former police station—one of the few surviving structures—now standing as a solemn reminder of the town’s past and its monumental efforts to rebuild.
A Journey Through Tohoku’s Heart and Spirit
Hiking the Michinoku Coastal Trail is more than just a scenic trek—it’s an immersive journey through Tohoku’s enduring spirit. Beyond breathtaking landscapes, the trail offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and exploring hidden sea caves. Whether you’re in search of serenity, adventure, or a deeper connection to Japan’s untamed coastline, this trail delivers an unforgettable experience.
Plan Your Trip:
???? Official Michinoku Coastal Trail Website: https://www.michinokutrail.com/
???? More Must-See Tohoku Destinations: https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/
???? Read More: https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/attractions/detail_1002279.html
Mount Yudono: last stop on the Dewa Sanzan pilgrimage, between mummies and ancient paths
From 2025-07-01 at 2025-09-15
The sokushinbutsu mummies of Dewa Sanzan, along the Rokujurigoe Kaido pilgrimage route
Those who like to venture along thousand-year-old pilgrimage routes will find the most beautiful ancient relics of esoteric Buddhism on the 1,200-year-old paths of the Rokujurigoe Kaido (approx. 20km long, 2 days 1 night to complete in its entirety). This pilgrimage route links the town of Tsuruoka to Mount Yudono, the third mountain in the sacred triad of Dewa Sanzan, one of the three major sites of Shugendo in Japan (a syncretism of Buddhism and Shinto, incorporating Taoist and Shamanist precepts). Shugendo ascetics, the yamabushi, worship the mountain as a mother of blessings and a place of spiritual awakening.
Mount Yudono, the "temple at the bottom
Shugendo ascetics, the yamabushi, worship the mountain as a mother of blessings and a place of spiritual awakening. Mount Yudono, known as "the temple of the depths" (oku no in), was home to the poet Matsuo Basho, who composed 2 haikus in its honor, each demonstrating the strong emotion he felt when visiting the secrets of this mountain of Shingon Buddhism:
No one can say
The secrets of Yudono
Tears running down
At Mount Yudono,
Paths covered with gold coins,
Tears of emotion
At the heart of these secrets: the Sokushinbutsu of Mount Yudono. These monks mummified themselves after more than 1,000 days of training in the mountains, emaciating themselves to the extreme to preserve their bodies from putrefaction beyond death. If they succeeded in this task, their bodies were removed from their tombs to be preserved as "Buddhas" by the temples of Mount Yudono.
The pilgrimage route from Mount Yudono to the town of Tsuruoka
The Rokujurigoe Kaido, otherwise known as the Yudonomichi ("Road to Mount Yudono"), is more than just a pilgrimage trail: it's a veritable link between mountains and sea, between spirituality and trade. Its history dates back to the founding of the Churenji (833) and Dainichibo (852) temples, the two high points of Mount Yudono, in the village of Oami. But according to the Dewa Fudoki scrolls of 1792, pilgrims had been walking this path since the Nara period (8th century).
Over the centuries, this route became a key axis for travellers from all horizons. Militaries, merchants and farmers all used it, linking the mountainous interior of Yamagata prefecture with the coastal region of Shonai. Strategically, the trail was even used by warriors of the Shonai clan to defend the coastline and access inland areas. General Sakanoue Tamamuro is said to have used it at the end of the 8th century to quell Emishi revolts in the north. Later, during the Edo period (1604-1868), Shonai lords and their armies used it to travel to Edo (Tokyo) every two years. Merchants and peasants saw it as a valuable trade route, linking faith and prosperity.
Today, what remains of the Rokujurigoe Kaido is a 34 km trail that runs through the town of Tsuruoka and the city of Nishikawa, in Yamagata prefecture; although we recommend our visitors stop at Mount Yudono, as the passage to Nishikawa is very bushy. With a vertical drop of 1,200 metres, this route offers a unique immersion in the heart of the mountains. The starting point for the first section is Honmyoji temple in Tsuruoka, and the entire route leads to Shizu Onsen in Nishikawa. A little tip for hikers: at Yudonosan Shrine, the highest point on the trail, it's on average 7°C cooler than on the plain. Don't forget to bring warm clothes, even in summer!
In terms of climate, the region is marked by strong seasonal variations. In winter, snow covers the landscape from December to mid-April. In May, nature awakens with the sprouting season. From mid-June to the end of August, summer heat sets in, before autumn adorns the mountains in flamboyant colors. A life-size adventure for lovers of hiking and spirituality!
Along the Rokujurigoe Kaido, hikers can visit the Dainichibo, Churenji and Honmyoji temples and visit their respective Sokushinbutsu mummies.
> Find out more about Dewa Sanzan on the official Dewa Sanzan Shrine website: www.thedewasanzan.com (online February 10) : http://www.thedewasanzan.com
> Find out more about other sites in Tsuruoka city: www.tsuruokacity.com
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