Michinoku Coastal Trail: Mitazono Station - Rikuzen-Takasago Station

hikesasia

Jan 4

Written By Anne

I originally just wanted to visit the Michinoku Coastal Trail Center in Natori to get an official trail passport, since I had been using my own for stamps. Since I was in the area, I decided to walk from the nearest train station along the trail to the center, then continue toward Sendai.

The weather forecast predicted moderate wind and snow, but the mostly flat route didn’t seem too physically challenging. The first part of the trail passed through bare winter farmland stretching as far as I could see. I had checked the visitor center’s hours in advance, knowing many places were closed until January 4th. The friendly staff welcomed me, curious about where I was from, as they don’t see many foreign hikers. We chatted about our favorite parts of the trail, my hiking direction, and general area info. After getting my passport, browsing the center, and using the facilities, I continued on.

The staff had warned me about a busy bridge about a kilometer ahead, suggesting I go under and around if crossing was difficult. Sure enough, I couldn’t find a safe gap, so I took their advice. The trail then led to an ocean-side park, where it was shared with bikes, though I saw few people. This long, unchanging section was mentally tough—just the same scenery stretching for kilometers.

About 4 km from my destination, Rikuzen-Takasago Station, the snow started, and the wind picked up. Walking with snow blowing in my face was miserable. I had underestimated this section—not physically, but mentally.