Just 35 minutes from Sendai, Rairaikyo Gorge is a peaceful spot lined with mossy rocks and a flowing river. The short 1 km trail winds right below onsen hotels and busy roads, yet feels completely quiet once you descend into the gorge. A quick, refreshing nature escape before heading back to the city.

What began as a quick visit to the Michinoku Coastal Trail Center turned into a reflective winter walk through Natori’s quiet farmlands and coastline. This stretch of the trail, shaped by the 2011 tsunami, offers a humbling glimpse into nature’s recovery and the strength of the communities that rebuilt along its path.

A morning in Kesennuma: hike Mount Anba, visit Osugi Shrine, stroll the fish market, and enjoy panoramic city and bay views before heading back to Sendai.

This stretch of the Michinoku Coastal Trail follows the breathtaking Goishi Coast, where rugged cliffs and black “go” stones meet quiet fishing villages. Beyond its beauty, the trail tells a deeper story of resilience—walking here is both a scenic journey and a reminder of nature and community healing after the 2011 tsunami.

To kick off the new year, I hiked from Kesennuma to Oshima Island along the Michinoku Coastal Trail. The walk followed quiet coastal roads and crossed the impressive Kesennuma–Oshima Ohashi Bridge—a powerful symbol of the region’s recovery after the 2011 tsunami. Despite strong winds and a limited New Year’s schedule, it was a memorable start to the year surrounded by sea views and quiet resilience.

A peaceful coastal trek from Ichinowatari to Jodogahama Beach, blending ocean views, quiet forests, and glimpses of recovery along Iwate’s Sanriku coast. This section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail captures the region’s enduring beauty and spirit.

A challenging but memorable day along the Michinoku Coastal Trail, from Shintaro to Ichinowatari. I passed tsunami memorials, coastal cliffs, and a few unexpected detours—including a sketchy scramble up a leaf-covered slope. A true test of patience and persistence on Japan’s northern coast.

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 windchill, icy trails, and snow, this hike from Kuji Station to Itsukushima Shrine proved too dangerous to finish. With detours and strong headwinds, I turned back early, exhausted but safe—sometimes the trail reminds you when to call it a day.

Starting from the shark-themed Same Station, this winter hike to Okuki followed snowy coastal trails with icy sections and sparse facilities. Despite the challenges, the dramatic ocean scenery and frozen landscapes made for a memorable section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Hike the scenic Nakasendo Trail from Magome to Nagiso, passing charming post towns, bamboo groves, and panoramic castle views.

Just outside Nagoya, Kiyosu Castle is one of the most photogenic castles I’ve visited. Crossing Ote Bridge lined with lanterns, the view of the red railings and the castle ahead is beautiful. Inside, the museum offers a glimpse into samurai history, and from the top, you get amazing views of the town — and even the Shinkansen passing by.

I hiked the 2.3 km Meisou no Komichi Trail up Mount Kinka to Gifu Castle. The climb was scenic with a few tricky spots, but the castle, shrine, museum, and observatory at the top made it worth every step. I descended via an easier trail and enjoyed a quiet stroll around the park before heading back.

Hike part of the Shikoku 88 Temples Trail from Cape Uno to Cape Ashizuri, exploring sacred sites and stunning coastal views.

A day in Takamori blended spirituality and pop culture. From visiting the mystical Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine and its legendary cave to spotting One Piece statues, riding an anime-themed train, and exploring Yasui Tunnel Park’s festive displays, this Kumamoto adventure was full of surprises.