Route Details
Michinoku Coastal Trail Unosumai to Nebama

Coastal Town Recovery Walk Course

This is a relatively easy route from Unosumai Station to Nebama Campground along the Michinoku Coastal Trail. The course starts with a visit to the "Mirai-kan" Tsunami Learning Center, where you can learn about the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. The trail follows the evacuation routes used by local students and passes through the Kamaishi Unosumai Memorial Stadium that served as a venue for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, before reaching Nebama Beach, known for its beautiful white sands and pine trees.
A guided tour is recommended to fully appreciate the recovery story of the region.
Start point
Unosumai Station
End point
Nebama Seaside Campground
Distance
〜5 km
Time Required
1〜1.5 hours
(1.5〜2 hours with a guide)
Difficulty
★☆☆
What to Bring
● Hat
● Rain gear
● Comfortable walking shoes
● Drinks
● From October to April, a windbreaker or warm clothing is recommended.
Important Notes
● You have the option to hire a certified guide from the Sanriku Geopark. For inquiries, please contact Nebama Seaside (📞 0193-27-5455 / 📧 nebamacamp@dmo-kamaishi.com). ※ Please note that guides may not always be available depending on their schedule.
● Restrooms are available at Unosato Visitor Center before departure and at Nebama Rest House upon arrival.
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Tsunami Memorial Hall "Mirai-kan"
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This facility showcases exhibits on the events of the Great East Japan Earthquake, the lessons learned, and disaster preparedness efforts in Kamaishi. Visitors can not only learn about the situation in Kamaishi at the time but also explore why an astonishing 99.7% of the city's elementary and junior high school students survived. Through this, the center serves as a place for disaster preparedness education, helping to protect lives in the future.
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Kamaishi Unosumai Memorial Stadium
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This rugby stadium was built on the site of former elementary and junior high schools, where all students successfully evacuated despite the devastating tsunami. It also served as a venue for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and has become a cherished symbol of recovery for the local community. Known as one of the world’s smallest stadiums and the most naturally surrounded stadium in the world, it offers a unique and inspiring setting.
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Unosumai Floodgate
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Standing 14.5 meters high and stretching 180 meters in length, the massive Unosumai River Floodgate is an awe-inspiring structure. Located in the Unosumai district, which suffered the highest number of casualties in Kamaishi during the Great East Japan Earthquake, this floodgate plays a crucial role in local disaster prevention. From the top, you can enjoy a refreshing view overlooking the sea. However, if you are uncomfortable with heights, please assess your own comfort level before visiting. Additionally, please refrain from touching any floodgate equipment or facilities.
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Nebama Beach
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Once one of the most popular swimming spots in the prefecture, Nebama Beach offers a stunning view of the intricate ria coastline. The bay’s waves are often calm, making it an ideal location for marine activities such as sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and snorkeling. Despite being hit by the tsunami, the surviving pine forest and white sandy beach create a beautiful and tranquil setting. The sound of the waves and the serene landscape provide a perfect place to relax. Nebama Rest House serves as a stamp point to mark your journey along the Michinoku Coastal Trail, so feel free to stop by!