Tohoku Local Stories
Tohoku Local Secret Tours Official Blog
Tohoku Trails: Trekking Through Japan’s Deep North
Untouched nature. Unchanging culture. Unfading spirit. Uncovered Japan.
This is ‘Tohoku’ – Japan’s deep north!
Still very much unknown territory to the majority of international travellers, the Tohoku region offers an authentic experience of Japan that is widely inaccessible to visitors in major tourist areas. Only 90 mins train-ride from the centre of Tokyo, Tohoku is easily accessible whilst also offering escape from the concrete jungle in its sprawling mountains, plains and stunning coastlines.
With nature-galore to be enjoyed, including some of the best hot-springs in the entire country, Tohoku is a paradise for trekkers and walkers. Not only will the most active trekkers fall in love with the plethora of volcanic peaks and ocean trails to be explored, any traveler of any level will be touched by the incredible culture, tradition and encounters with welcoming locals who, for thousands of years, have lived in coexistence with nature – embracing both its ferocity and blessings.
Whether you’re a first-timer to Japan or a return visitor looking for a deeper experience off-the-beaten-path, we’ve compiled some of our favourite Tohoku Trails below to inspire your next adventure!
COASTAL TRAILS
North Japan is home to some of the most picturesque coastlines in the country, particularly around the dramatic rock formations and rias coast of the Sanriku Fukko National Park. Recently, the ‘Michinoku Coastal Trail’ – a new walking trail stretching 1000km along the Pacific Coastline (through the national park) – has opened, giving walkers the opportunity to experience first-hand the recovery of the region, along with its incredible natural beauty and unique culture.
Coast to Coast Pilgrimage: Walk, Savour, Connect (Kinkasan)
Due to the continued global spread of the COVID19 virus and the associated impact upon public health and safely in Japan, reservations for all tours and experience programs will be SUSPENDED until May 2020, or until the situation improves and relevant restrictions upon travel are lifted.
VOLCANIC TRAILS
Japan is one of the most volcanic destinations on earth! Discover how (and why) the people of Tohoku have built their lives in coexistence with these fiery giants, embracing both their ferocities and blessings!
Living with Volcanoes: The Japanese Highlands
Feel the heat of the earth in Japan’s deep north! Due to the continued global spread of the COVID19 virus and the associated impact upon public health and safely in Japan, reservations for all tours and experience programs will be SUSPENDED until May 2020, or until the situation improves and relevant restrictions upon travel are lifted.
Origin of Onsen Trail
Feel the heat of the earth in Bandai-Asahi National Park Due to the continued global spread of the COVID19 virus and the associated impact upon public health and safely in Japan, reservations for all tours and experience programs will be SUSPENDED until May 2020, or until the situation improves and relevant restrictions upon travel are lifted.
PILGRIMAGE
From the Dewasanzan (Three Holy Mountains of Dewa) to Kinkasan Island and the Zao mountain range – many of Tohoku’s mountains have been the scared practicing grounds for Shugendo (mountain worship) for thousands of years. Completing a pilgrimage through these divine lands is seen to be a journey of self-transformation and spiritual rebirth.
Coast to Coast Pilgrimage: Walk, Savour, Connect
Walk in nature, savour local flavours and connect with the people and culture of Japan’s deep north. Due to the continued global spread of the COVID19 virus and the associated impact upon public health and safely in Japan, reservations for all tours and experience programs will be SUSPENDED until May 2020, or until the situation improves and relevant restrictions upon travel are lifted.
For more information about planning a trekking or walking adventure in Tohoku, please contact ‘Tohoku Local Secret Tours’ at tours@inoutbound.co.jp or place an inquiry here.