Michinoku Coastal Trail Ryoishi to Kamaishi

Toyasaka Pass & Coastal Road Course

This is a mountain pass route from Ryōishi Station to Kamaishi Station. As you traverse the quiet mountains of Toyasaka Pass, you can walk along the historic "Hama Kaidō" (Coastal Road), immersing yourself in history, connecting with nature, reflecting on yourself, and fully enjoying the trail.

Start point

Ryōishi Station

End point

Kamaishi Station

Distance

Approximately 12 km

Time Required

5〜6 hours

Difficulty

★★★

What to Bring

● Gloves
● Hat
● Bear bell
● Rain gear
● Long-sleeved shirt and long pants
● Trekking shoes
● headlamp / portable light

Important Notes

・This area is known for bear activity. Please remain alert and proceed with caution.
・There is no established path when descending to Kagami Beach. Watch your footing carefully, and follow trail markers closely as the route can be difficult to identify.
When walking from the Kamaishi city area, you will reach a junction with the Sanriku Hamakaido before arriving at the summit, Miage Pass. Please follow the Michinoku Coastal Trail markers.
・Cell phone reception may be unavailable in some areas. We recommend sharing your itinerary with family or friends in advance.
・There are no vending machines along the route, so please bring enough water with you.
・Insects and bees may be present. Please wear long sleeves and long pants.
・Sunset times vary greatly by season, so please plan your schedule with plenty of time. Bringing a headlamp or portable light is recommended in case of emergency.
・Weather conditions can change quickly along the coast and at mountain passes. Please check the weather forecast in advance.
・Some sections may be muddy and slippery after rainfall.
・Toilets are available at Mizuumi Park (the parking area toilets are open from July to September only) and at Uogashi Terrace.

Ai no Hama Beach & Mizuumi Park

Ai no Hama is known for its exceptionally clear seawater. Unlike a sandy beach, it is a pebble beach, offering a quieter and more natural atmosphere. From the intersection near the Kamaishi–Ryoishi IC entrance on National Route 45, follow the road heading toward the sea. This area allows you to enjoy the ocean away from crowds. Pass alongside Mizuumi Park and continue toward the trail entrance.

Kagami Beach

Enjoy Kagami Coast almost entirely to yourself—a hidden gem beloved by locals in Kamaishi. Though small, this secluded beach is rarely visited, allowing you to immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of waves and birdsong, creating a deeply calming and restorative experience. Please note that Kagami Coast lies slightly off the main trail route, and there is no clearly maintained path. If you choose to descend to the beach, take extra care with your footing. We also ask that visitors act responsibly and with respect for the natural environment. Important: Kagami Coast is off the official trail. The path marked with the trail sign shown in Photo 2 is the designated route—please be sure to follow it carefully.

The summit “Miage pass”

At the top of Toyasaka Pass, you will find benches where you can sit and take a break. The stone Buddha statues in the open area were erected in the 1780s to honor those who lost their lives during the Tenmei Great Famine.

Panoramic View of Kamaishi Bay

As you begin descending Toyasaka Pass toward the Kamaishi city area, a scenic viewpoint opens up with sweeping views of Kamaishi Bay. From here, you can see the cranes of Kamaishi Port and even the iconic Kamaishi Daikannon statue in the distance.

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