Starting from Kurosakiso, this section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail winds along dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, passing Kitayamazaki and Benten Cape. Between hand-dug caves, cliffside ladders, and encounters with local wildlife, it’s a challenging yet unforgettable part of the trail that captures the raw beauty of Japan’s Sanriku coast.

From Horinai to Kurosakiso, this section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail blends history, resilience, and rugged beauty. Passing tsunami-scarred fishing villages, the Fudai Watergate, and Kurosaki Lighthouse, it’s a hike that reveals both the power of nature and the strength of the Sanriku coast.

Battling –15°C temperatures and blowing snow, I hiked from Kuji toward Itsukushima Shrine before deciding to turn back. This short section of the Michinoku Trail offers a humbling reminder of nature’s power and the importance of knowing your limits.

Starting at Kabushima Shrine in Hachinohe, this first section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail offers a peaceful winter walk along the Tanesashi Coast. Snowy beaches, fishing ports, and sweeping ocean views set the tone for the long journey south.

Hiking the Magome to Minami-Nagiso section of the Nakasendo Trail offers a perfect mix of history, scenery, and authentic Edo-period charm. Stone-paved streets, old inns, and panoramic views make this intermediate trail a must-do for travellers exploring Japan’s Kiso Valley.

A quiet winter visit to Iwamura Castle Ruins, one of Japan’s Three Great Mountain Castles, where ancient stone walls crown a 717-metre summit. A peaceful, history-filled walk through one of Gifu’s most beautifully preserved castle towns.

I hiked up Mount Kinka via the Meisou no Komichi Trail to reach Gifu Castle, a mountaintop fortress once home to Oda Nobunaga. The 2.3 km trail was steep but scenic, winding through forest and rewarding me with sweeping views of Gifu City and the Nagara River from the summit.

Perched high above the town of Asago, Takeda Castle lives up to its nickname—the “castle floating in the sky.” Though winter closures meant a tougher climb and snow-covered ruins, the sweeping views and quiet atmosphere made the visit unforgettable.

I made a quick stop in Himeji to finally visit Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, a Buddhist site I’d always wanted to see. Instead of taking the ropeway, I hiked up through a quiet forest trail lined with fallen leaves and serene viewpoints. The temple’s scale and beauty were incredible—one of the most memorable places I’ve visited in Japan.

A quiet hike through Yakushidani Ravine near Uwajima—once a popular summer spot, now a peaceful trail lined with moss, waterfalls, and forest stillness.

Experience the beauty of Mt. Karakuni and Ebino Plateau in southern Kyushu. Trek to the summit, explore Lake Onami, and enjoy stunning volcanic landscapes in Miyazaki Prefecture.

A spontaneous visit to Sakurajima turned into a peaceful morning of volcanic views, lazy cats, and quiet footbaths. This easy trail on one of Japan’s most active volcanoes offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and calm.

My last day in Jeju was spent walking Jeju Olle Trail 10—a quiet, nature-filled route of beaches, fishing villages, and ocean views. What began as one last hike before my flight became a heartwarming encounter that made me want to return and complete the entire Jeju Olle Trail.

A coastal walk with city views—Jeju Olle Trail 8 offers a mix of seaside paths, resort areas, and distant glimpses of Hallasan. A different side of Jeju, where nature meets the island’s modern rhythm.

Jeju Olle Trail 6 offers one of the most beautiful coastal walks on Jeju Island, combining waterfalls, cliffs, and black sand beaches in a short 11.6 km route. A perfect balance of culture and nature just outside Seogwipo.

Starting from Seogwipo, Jeju Olle Trail 7 follows a 15 km stretch of coastline past waterfalls, beaches, and fishing towns—offering the perfect mix of city access and coastal beauty for first-time Olle hikers.

A peaceful day walking around Sun Moon Lake—Taiwan’s most iconic lake—visiting Wenwu Temple, Ita Thao Village, and the shimmering emerald waters that give this place its timeless beauty.

Hike Mt. Tashan in Alishan for panoramic mountain views, ancient cypress trees, and peaceful trails. Discover the Sister Ponds and experience Taiwan’s scenic Alishan forests on this unforgettable hike.

A short, accessible hike up Mount Jiantan offers scenic city views, a playful airplane observation deck, and glimpses of Taipei landmarks like Taipei 101 and The Grand Hotel. Ideal for nature and city enthusiasts alike.